Author: J.Carter

Chery Unveils Tiggo 5L: A Compact SUV for the Hybrid Age
News, SUV & Crossovers

Chery Unveils Tiggo 5L: A Compact SUV for the Hybrid Age

Chery Automobile is gearing up to introduce its latest offering, the Tiggo 5L, a compact SUV set to debut in 2026. Positioned as a smaller sibling to the recently updated Tiggo 8, this new model aims to cater to an expanding market segment with both traditional gasoline and plug-in hybrid options.The interior of the T1Q, Chery's internal codename for the upcoming SUV, showcases modern design elements reminiscent of its larger counterpart. The dashboard features a prominent vertical touchscreen, complemented by a digital instrument cluster, wireless charging pad, and a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel. These features are indicative of Chery’s commitment to integrating advanced technology into their vehicle lineup.Exterior styling cues for the T1Q suggest a cohesive family resemblanc...
EV & Electric Cars, News

Tesla’s Model X Sheds 400 Pounds Through Subtle Upgrades

Tesla has quietly transformed the Model X over recent years, shedding a significant 400 pounds without compromising its core characteristics or performance. Lars Moravy, Tesla’s VP of Vehicle Engineering, revealed during an interview with Car and Driver that the weight reduction was achieved through meticulous engineering efforts rather than drastic redesigns.The powertrain modifications were among the most impactful changes. By switching to a permanent magnet design for the rear induction motor and refining the half shafts, Tesla managed to cut approximately 100 pounds from the Model X's total weight. This adjustment not only reduced mass but also enhanced performance by improving efficiency.The battery pack underwent its own set of optimizations. Despite maintaining the same overall capa...
Chery Fulwin T9L: A Technological Marvel in the Large SUV Segment
News, SUV & Crossovers, Tech & Autonomous

Chery Fulwin T9L: A Technological Marvel in the Large SUV Segment

At the recent 2025 Guangzhou Auto Show, Chery unveiled its latest offering, the Fulwin T9L, a large five-seat SUV that promises to redefine expectations for performance and technology. Positioned under Chery's Fulwin sub-brand, this vehicle is set to enter the Chinese market between March and April 2026.The T9L showcases Chery’s 'Eastern calligraphy' design language, featuring a minimalist front with narrow headlights, large side air vents on the bumper, and an integrated LiDAR system in its roof. This sleek exterior is complemented by semi-hidden door handles and a rear design that includes a full-width taillight and upturned spoiler.Dimensions-wise, the T9L measures 4,870 millimeters long, 1,930 millimeters wide, and 1,710 millimeters tall with a wheelbase of 2,920 millimeters. This spac...
BYD Brazil Plant Surpasses 10,000 Units in Five Months
EV & Electric Cars, News

BYD Brazil Plant Surpasses 10,000 Units in Five Months

BYD's Camacari plant in Bahia reached a significant milestone of producing 10,000 vehicles just five months after commencing operations on July 1, 2025. This achievement underscores the rapid growth and strategic importance of BYD’s manufacturing footprint in South America.The factory currently assembles three models: the all-electric Dolphin Mini hatchback, plug-in hybrid King sedan, and Song Pro crossover. The Dolphin Mini, akin to the Seagull model sold in China, was the first vehicle off the production line on July 1st. This marks a significant step forward for BYD's expansion into international markets.BYD’s Camacari plant boasts an annual capacity of 150,000 units and aims to scale up to 600,000 cars per year in the long term. The factory has recently added a second shift with 120 ni...
GWM Eyes Europe with Ambitious Plant Plans
News

GWM Eyes Europe with Ambitious Plant Plans

Great Wall Motors (GWM) is setting its sights on the European market with ambitious expansion plans, aiming to construct a plant capable of producing up to 300,000 vehicles annually by 2029. This move underscores GWM's strategic focus on overseas growth as competition in China intensifies.According to Reuters, GWM is currently scouting potential locations across several European countries including Spain and Hungary. The decision-making process involves a meticulous evaluation of factors such as labor costs, logistics efficiency, and overall operational feasibility.Parker Shi, president of GWM International, emphasized the importance of selecting an optimal site for long-term sustainability. He noted that initial production will require shipping components to the chosen location for assemb...
Solar Battery Rebate Faces Early Drain as Demand Surges
Industry & Business, News

Solar Battery Rebate Faces Early Drain as Demand Surges

Origin Energy has issued a stark warning that the government's $2.3 billion rebate fund for home solar batteries could be depleted within a year due to soaring demand. Since the Cheaper Home Batteries Program launched in July, Australian households have invested in an impressive 136,000 batteries, with daily installations reaching up to 1800 units recently.The popularity of these systems has skyrocketed, leading to a more than doubling of inquiries at Origin Energy. This surge is attributed to the program's offer of a 30 percent discount on small-scale household batteries integrated with rooftop solar systems. The rebate scheme was announced in April and has already inspired a 400 percent increase in battery inquiries before its launch.Origin Energy’s electrification general manager, Chris...
GWM Aims for 300,000 Unit Plant in Europe to Compete with BYD
EV & Electric Cars, Industry & Business, News

GWM Aims for 300,000 Unit Plant in Europe to Compete with BYD

Great Wall Motor (GWM) is making significant strides towards establishing its first full-vehicle manufacturing plant in Europe, targeting an annual output of 300,000 units by 2029. The company’s international president, Parker Shi, revealed this ambitious plan during a recent interview, highlighting the strategic importance of selecting sites in Spain and Hungary based on factors such as labor costs and logistics efficiency.GWM’s decision to consider these locations is not just about immediate cost savings but also future-proofing against potential shifts in European Union industrial policies. The company aims to balance the initial reliance on imported critical components with a long-term vision of local supply chain integration, mirroring strategies employed by older automotive giants li...
TU Eindhoven Unveils DIY Electric City Car Aria
EV & Electric Cars, Guides & Maintenance, News

TU Eindhoven Unveils DIY Electric City Car Aria

TU Eindhoven has unveiled a new battery-electric vehicle (BEV) called Aria, designed by students to challenge the automotive industry's approach to sustainability and repairability. The Aria is an innovative concept that emphasizes user-friendly maintenance, allowing owners to perform minor repairs themselves with clear manuals and standardised components.The Aria features a modular design, which includes detachable battery modules weighing twelve kilograms each. This allows for easy replacement of faulty parts without requiring specialized tools or technical expertise. The 13-kWh battery pack comprises six such modules, making it accessible to anyone familiar with basic automotive maintenance techniques.One of the standout features of Aria is its bodywork design, which facilitates quick a...
Audi Updates A6 and Q6 e-tron with Efficiency Boosts
EV & Electric Cars, News

Audi Updates A6 and Q6 e-tron with Efficiency Boosts

Audi has announced a minor update for its PPE-based models, the A6 e-tron sedan and Q6 e-tron SUV, alongside their PPC counterparts. The updates aim to enhance efficiency without necessitating new WLTP certification figures, suggesting only marginal improvements in range or consumption.Among the changes, Audi highlights an improved regenerative braking system that allows vehicles to decelerate smoothly from cruising speed down to a complete stop without transitioning to conventional brakes. This feature maximizes energy recovery and contributes to overall efficiency, though specific numerical benefits are not provided.The S6 e-tron receives a new 'Dynamic Plus' driving mode designed for performance enthusiasts. This setting optimizes the car's all-wheel-drive system and ESC settings for re...
ACT Expo 2026: The Future of Clean Fleets
News, Pickup Trucks

ACT Expo 2026: The Future of Clean Fleets

The automotive industry is on the cusp of a significant transformation, with TRC's ACT Expo 2026 set to be a landmark event for commercial fleets. As Sr. VP of incentives at TRC, Joe Annotti provides an overview of what attendees can expect from this year’s expo, which will take place in Las Vegas and attract over 12,000 professionals from various sectors.With the accelerated development of digital solutions, powertrain technologies, and fuel choices available to commercial customers today, ACT Expo aims to be a comprehensive resource for fleet managers. The event will feature real-world case studies and direct access to industry leaders who are shaping the future of clean fleets through innovative technology and sustainable practices.One of the key themes at this year’s expo is incentive-...