Local News

A survey reveals that 1/3 of car owners are open to ditching their rides for alternative transport solutions, with urbanites even more willing. Germans demand a major mobility overhaul due to the climate crisis, favoring emission-free options and expanded public transit. However, challenges like inadequate public transport and the convenience of personal vehicles hinder widespread change. Despite support for green measures, Germany's transport emissions struggle to decrease, prompting calls to redirect funds towards sustainable transport investments.

BYD follows in Tesla's footsteps by expanding its car insurance business in 7 Chinese provinces, aiming to diversify and leverage industry expertise. Unlike other automakers, BYD has regulatory approval to independently adjust rates and offer custom plans, leading to potential savings for customers. With NEV insurance market challenges, BYD focuses on cost reduction to ensure profitability. Analysts anticipate BYD's move to impact the broader NEV insurance landscape in China.

Xiaomi's upcoming SUV, the MX11, spotted testing on roads in China with a design inspired by the successful SU7 model. Expected to launch in 2025 and boasts Ferrari Purosangue-like proportions. Features an 800V platform, 21,000rpm motors, and spacious trunk. Third vehicle model rumored to use budget-friendly batteries, set for a 2026 release at 150,000 yuan. Xiaomi's fast growth in the EV market with 20,000 SU7s delivered within months of launch.

Geely's Zeekr, the high-end EV brand, unveils plans to launch 7 sleek electric vehicles by 2026, including 4 SUVs, 2 MPVs, and 1 wagon designed for the European market. Zeekr raised a whopping $441 million in its New York IPO and has already delivered over 67,000 cars to owners. The upcoming models include the Mix minivan, Ark crossover, and the 007 Station Wagon. Stay tuned for more updates on Zeekr's expansion into the EV market.

Check out the BYD Song L DM-i interior, a sleek compact SUV loaded with fifth-gen DM hybrid tech. Its digital instrument panel and 15.6-inch central screen are just the beginning. Equipped with sports seats, wireless charging, and top-notch luxury touches, this ride means business. Sporting a 1.5L engine, 215 hp electric motor, and impressive specs, it's ready to hit the road with prices starting at a cool $16,500. Sales kicking off later this year in China.

An island town in Florida, Key Biscayne, has banned electric bikes and scooters following a tragic accident. Community members are divided, with some supporting the ban due to safety concerns, while others advocate for education and enforcement to regulate e-bike use instead of an outright ban. The situation draws parallels to the movie "Footloose," highlighting the importance of finding a balance between tradition and change. Advocates suggest that regulations, not bans, are the key to safely integrating electric bikes into transportation systems.

Canada is gearing up to impose tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) to align with the US and EU. The move comes as part of a global trend to combat "unfair" competition in the EV market. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faces pressure to take action amid a surge in Chinese EV imports. The industry's push for tariffs aims to protect domestic jobs and maintain alignment with key trade partners. The EV tariff battle continues to intensify on the global stage.

China's BYD is expanding globally with plans for a major EV plant in Mexico. After successful ventures in Thailand, Israel, and Australia, BYD is boosting its South American presence. In Brazil, their affordable $20,000 Seagull EV saw outstanding sales, topping Brazil's EV market in Q1. The upcoming Mexico plant is expected to create 10,000 jobs and drive sales up to 50,000 vehicles this year. BYD's strategic moves position them well amidst shifting global EV markets.

Six months after launching its successful SU7 EV, Xiaomi is gearing up for another electric vehicle to rival the Tesla Model Y. Spy photos of a camouflaged sleek SUV coupe have surfaced, hinting at the design similarities to the Ferrari Purosangue. Anticipated for release in 2025, this new EV features LiDAR sensors for enhanced ADAS capabilities. With Xiaomi's rapid strides in the EV market, the competition against Tesla and Porsche is heating up. Stay tuned for more updates on Xiaomi's latest innovation!

Ferrari unveils solar-powered e-building for upcoming EV sports car. The new facility, powered by renewable energy, marks Ferrari's pivot towards electrification. Costing $214 million, the e-building boasts 3,000 solar panels and environmentally conscious initiatives. The Italian luxury carmaker plans to launch its first fully electric sports car soon, with a second EV in the works. Ferrari aims for 60% of sales to come from EVs and PHEVs by 2026. Stay tuned for updates on Ferrari's electric future.