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Xpeng Inc and Volkswagen AG Strengthen Collaboration on EV Solutions in China

Xpeng Inc will deepen its cooperation with Volkswagen AG, with both companies pledging to develop a new electrical and electronic solution for all battery-powered cars made in China under the VW brand.

New Technical Collaboration Agreement

The Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker announced on Monday that it has entered into a technical collaboration agreement with Volkswagen to develop solutions for locally made vehicles. These solutions will be based on VW’s China Main platform and Modular Electric Drive Matrix (MEB) platform.

Joint Project Houses

To facilitate this collaboration, Xpeng and Volkswagen have established project houses in Guangzhou and Hefei. These locations are where Xpeng and VW’s technology hub in China are respectively based, enabling engineers from both automakers to work closely together. The first car equipped with the jointly developed architecture is expected to start production within approximately 24 months.

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smart Malaysia Launches smartCO: Community Privileges Programme for smart EV Owners

smart Malaysia proudly announces the launch of smartCO, a groundbreaking community privileges programme designed exclusively for smart EV owners. This initiative stands as one of the industry’s pioneering efforts to cultivate a robust community where business opportunities flourish, all seamlessly integrated via the cutting-edge Hello smart App.

smartCO is more than just a programme; it embodies the spirit of innovation and collaboration, inviting all smart EV owners to co-create a dynamic community that thrives on mutual benefits. Whether you’re a restaurateur, photographer, legal consultant, or freelance writer, smartCO welcomes businesses of all kinds to join this movement.

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Xiaomi’s Entry into the EV Market: A Response to U.S. Sanctions

Xiaomi Corporation, widely known for its smartphones and home appliances, made a surprising move into the electric vehicle (EV) market this year. This strategic pivot was largely triggered by sanctions imposed on the company by the Trump administration in early 2021. During an annual event in Beijing, Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun revealed that these sanctions were the catalyst for the company’s decision to diversify into the automotive industry.

The Sanctions and the Immediate Response

In the final days of the Trump administration, Xiaomi was placed on a U.S. sanction list, a decision that shocked the company. Lei recounted receiving a phone call from a friend about the sanctions, describing the news as “a bolt from the blue.” This unexpected development led to an emergency board meeting where the company quickly decided to embark on the complex journey of developing an electric car.

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BMW Reportedly Axes X3 M, Paves Way for Electric iX3 M

BMW’s X3 M, a high-performance variant of the third-generation X3 introduced in 2019, may soon become a part of automotive history. According to a new report from BMWBlog, the German automaker has allegedly decided against developing an M version for the upcoming fourth-generation X3, known as the G45-generation 2025 X3. This decision surfaces amidst earlier reports suggesting that BMW also plans to discontinue the X4, the coupe-style sibling of the X3.

High-Performance Alternatives

While the absence of a new X3 M might disappoint some enthusiasts, BMW continues to cater to those seeking a high-performance compact crossover with the X3 M50. This model is equipped with the B58 straight-six engine, generating 393hp. It accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.4 seconds and features sport suspension, variable sport steering, M Sport brakes, and an M Sport differential, ensuring a dynamic driving experience.

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Bentley Teases the New Flying Spur Sedan with Ultra Performance Hybrid Powertrain

Bentley’s renowned Flying Spur sedan, celebrated as the ultimate four-door Grand Tourer, is set for a remarkable transformation with the introduction of the new 782PS Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain. This powertrain, which debuted in Bentley’s latest Continental GT Speed, will redefine the Flying Spur, making it the most powerful, dynamic, and efficient four-door vehicle in Bentley’s illustrious 105-year history. The new model will replace the current Flying Spur, which was launched in 2019.

Unprecedented Power and Efficiency

The new Flying Spur will be equipped with a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine paired with a powerful, compact electric motor, delivering a combined output of 782PS and 1000Nm of torque. This Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain is a testament to Bentley’s commitment to blending accessible supercar performance with luxurious, silent electric motoring. The Flying Spur will offer a minimum of 72km of electric-only range, CO2 emissions below 40 g/km, and an overall range exceeding 804km, making it a modern grand tourer par excellence.

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2024 Proton X50 To Boost Production, Over 8,000 Bookings In First Month

Proton has announced that the newly-launched 2024 Proton X50 has received an overwhelming response, amassing a total of 8,000 bookings within just one month since its debut in June. This positive demand has far exceeded our expectations, setting a new benchmark for its segment. Since its original debut in 2020, the Proton X50 has been Malaysia’s best-selling SUV, with 115,262 units sold up to June.

Ramp up production to meet overwhelming demand

The enthusiastic reception of the 2024 Proton X50 underscores its prominent position in the SUV market. In response to this overwhelming demand, Proton is ramping up production to expedite delivery timeline for eager customers by August 2024. All customers who are entitled for early bird promotion of RM7,000 cash discount and RM1,000/ RM1,500 trade-in support will receive it accordingly.

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Latest News

Xpeng Inc and Volkswagen AG Strengthen Collaboration on EV Solutions in China

smart Malaysia Launches smartCO: Community Privileges Programme for smart EV Owners

Xiaomi’s Entry into the EV Market: A Response to U.S. Sanctions

The Sanctions and the Immediate Response

BMW Reportedly Axes X3 M, Paves Way for Electric iX3 M

High-Performance Alternatives

Bentley Teases the New Flying Spur Sedan with Ultra Performance Hybrid Powertrain

2024 Proton X50 To Boost Production, Over 8,000 Bookings In First Month

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