Electric Vehicle

Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun showcased the rapid charging of the upcoming Xiaomi YU7 EV in a one-take video. The YU7 charged from 10% to 80% in just 13 minutes, demonstrating the power of its 800V high-voltage SiC platform and HyperCharge system. During the demonstration, the car maintained a stable voltage of 786V and a peak charging power of 446kW. While charging, Lei Jun interacted with followers on Douyin, highlighting his approachable personality.

The Li Auto i8 has seen high demand for its premium trims (Max and Ultra). Responding to customer feedback regarding complex trim selection and limited customization, Li Auto is consolidating its i8 lineup into a single, fully-equipped model based on the i8 Max, priced at RMB 339,800. This includes a complimentary Platinum audio system. An optional rear entertainment screen package is also being introduced. The shift aims to simplify the purchasing process and caters to the demand for premium features.

Faraday Future (FFAI) shared a business update from Founder and Co-CEO YT Jia, highlighting progress and future plans. Jia emphasized blockchain integration into the US financial system and teased a major strategic upgrade on August 16th at Pebble Beach, unveiling the second chapter of FF’s “Bridge Strategy.” He cited a “Ten-Punch Combo” of transformations, the FX Super One launch with over 10,000 pre-orders, and progress in manufacturing and the FF and FX Bridge Strategy. Improvements in cash flow and a partnership with HabitTrade were also noted.

A recent crash test between a Chenglong truck and a Li Auto i8 has sparked controversy. Li Auto executives proposed a live rematch after the test results were questioned. Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor, Chenglong’s manufacturer, responded, emphasizing their dual role in commercial and passenger vehicles and revealing their unawareness of the initial test. Videos suggesting Chenglong dealerships were seeking a driver for a rematch also surfaced.

Lucid Group, an innovative EV maker, has appointed actor Timothée Chalamet as its first Global Brand Ambassador in a multi-year partnership. This marks a significant step for Lucid, reinforcing its commitment to ‘Compromise Nothing’ and pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle technology. The collaboration aims to further elevate Lucid’s brand awareness and appeal to a wider audience.

BYD has entered the Fortune Global 500 list for 2025, ranking 91st. This is the fourth consecutive year BYD has climbed the prestigious ranking, signifying the electric vehicle and battery manufacturer’s continued growth and success on a global scale.

Xpeng Motors announced Xu Yizhen, a popular short drama actress, as a new owner of the Xpeng G7, a mid-size SUV launched in July. A promotional video features Xu testing the G7’s features, including its air conditioning, which the company claims outperforms Tesla’s in cooling speed and ventilation. CEO He Xiaopeng personally delivered the car, emphasizing the spacious interior and large cargo area. The partnership highlights Xpeng’s marketing strategy and the growing influence of short-form video in China.

Faraday Future (FFAI) celebrated its 4th public listing anniversary with a business update from Founder YT Jia, highlighting over 10,000 paid pre-orders for the FX Super One MPV. Jia emphasized the Super One’s innovative features, including its “First Class EAI-MPV” category, AI capabilities, and focus on safety and luxury. The company showcased the FX Super One and FF 91 on Capitol Hill, advocating for American manufacturing and innovation. Faraday Future is also exploring Web3 applications and will present the FX Super One at Pebble Beach.

A recent incident in China highlights safety concerns surrounding low-speed electric vehicles (LSEVs). A parked EV, not recently charged, spontaneously combusted inside a home, resulting in its complete destruction. Online commentators identified the vehicle as a potentially substandard “Old Man’s Joy,” a type of LSEV known for lacking proper manufacturing standards and safety features. The incident underscores the need for stricter regulations in China’s rapidly expanding EV market to protect consumers from unsafe products.

A user publicly apologized to NIO after initially taunting their legal department over derogatory online comments. After being threatened with a lawsuit, the user claimed health issues and financial hardship, pleading for leniency and offering to remove the offensive content. He cited sleepless nights, exacerbated tinnitus, and weight loss due to the stress of the lawsuit and inability to afford cross-provincial litigation. He implored NIO to reduce the 1 million RMB claim, citing humanitarian considerations.