CHINA: Ford and Geely Pact, SU7 Refresh and BYD Adds Song Ultra | 06 Feb 2026
About this episode
Ford and Geely are exploring a partnership to share technology and reduce manufacturing costs, allowing Ford access to advanced battery tech in China. Xiaomi is set to launch a refreshed version of its SU7 with impressive range, while BYD introduces the Song Ultra, a new B-class electric SUV aimed at the competitive Chinese market. The episode also covers Cherry's revival of the QQ brand with a new electric model and highlights the shift in global EV sales, with Chinese manufacturers now dominating the top five positions, challenging Tesla's longstanding leadership.
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FORD AND GEELY WEIGH EV COST-SHARING PACT IN CHINA https://bit.ly/4t8Uhts
XIAOMI STRETCHES SU7 RANGE TO 902KM IN RAPID REFRESH https://bit.ly/3MqF4n3
BYD ADDS SONG ULTRA TO CROWDED EV LINE-UP https://bit.ly/4atctXr
BYD ADDS SONG ULTRA EV TO FILL MASS-MARKET GAP https://bit.ly/4ks6TIf
BYD SLIPS THROUGH CANADA’S EV IMPORT GATE https://bit.ly/4ageoxk
CHERY REVIVES QQ AS TECH-HEAVY COMPACT EV https://bit.ly/4r1IcF8
CHINA NOW DOMINATES GLOBAL EV SALES RANKINGS https://bit.ly/4r2FCib
SVOLT TEACHES BATTERY FIRES TO RUN AWAY https://bit.ly/4rCgw9L
CHINA STANDARDISES EV DOOR HANDLES https://bit.ly/49ZoJPo
Volvo
"...Gilles expertise in platform sharing across its Volvo, Polestar and Lotus portfolio."
Volvo is a car brand from Sweden that is known for making safe and reliable cars, like sedans and SUVs.
Volvo is a Swedish automotive brand recognized for its focus on safety and quality in its vehicles, including sedans and SUVs.
Polestar
"...its Volvo, Polestar and Lotus portfolio."
Polestar is a car brand that makes electric vehicles and is connected to Volvo, focusing on performance and sustainability.
Polestar is a performance electric vehicle brand that originated as a performance division of Volvo, focusing on electric and hybrid cars.
Lotus
"...its Volvo, Polestar and Lotus portfolio. No formal structure has been announced, but the collaboration..."
Lotus is a British car brand famous for making lightweight and fast sports cars.
Lotus is a British automotive company known for its lightweight sports cars and engineering innovations in performance vehicles.
EV architectures
"...could include joint developments, contract manufacturing or shared EV architectures for its China-built models."
EV architectures are the designs and systems used to build electric cars, focusing on how they use batteries and electric motors.
EV architectures refer to the design and engineering frameworks specifically developed for electric vehicles, including their battery systems and electric drivetrains.
battery technology
"...this would give Ford access to China's advanced battery technology and its supply chains while providing giley entry..."
Battery technology refers to the different kinds of batteries used in electric cars, which affect how far they can go and how quickly they can charge.
Battery technology encompasses the various types of batteries and their applications in electric vehicles, impacting performance, range, and charging capabilities.
Xiaomi Su7
"Let's talk Xiaomi launching a refreshed version of its original car, the Su7. That positions it amongst China's longest range"
The Xiaomi Su7 is an electric car made by Xiaomi, a brand that usually makes phones and gadgets. This car is part of their effort to create new products in the electric vehicle market.
The Xiaomi Su7 is an electric vehicle produced by Xiaomi, a company primarily known for its consumer electronics. This model represents Xiaomi's entry into the automotive market, showcasing their strategy to diversify and innovate in the EV sector.
battery electric models
"pure battery electric models. The update arrives months after the original faced"
Battery electric models are cars that run only on electricity. They don't use gas or diesel and need to be charged from an electrical outlet.
Battery electric models refer to vehicles that are powered entirely by electric batteries, without any internal combustion engine. These vehicles rely on electric motors for propulsion and are charged using electricity from the grid.
battery pack
"Denser battery pack, improved drive efficiency, a larger battery pack or maybe all three,"
A battery pack is like a big container of batteries that stores electricity for electric cars. The bigger it is, the further the car can go before needing to be charged.
A battery pack in electric vehicles is a collection of batteries that store electrical energy to power the vehicle. The size and density of the battery pack can significantly affect the vehicle's range and performance.
BYD Song Ultra EV
"...BYD's Song Ultra EV marks the dynasty line's first B-class pure electric small SUV."
The BYD Song Ultra EV is a small electric SUV made by the Chinese company BYD. It's part of a line of cars designed to be more affordable and environmentally friendly compared to traditional gasoline vehicles.
The BYD Song Ultra EV is a small electric SUV from the Chinese automaker BYD, part of their Dynasty line of vehicles. It represents a growing trend in the EV market, particularly in China, where domestic brands are establishing themselves as serious competitors.
pure electric
"...first B-class pure electric small SUV."
Pure electric cars run only on electricity and don't use any gas. They are better for the environment and can save money on fuel.
Pure electric vehicles are powered entirely by electricity and do not use any gasoline or diesel fuel. They rely on batteries for energy and are known for being environmentally friendly and having lower running costs compared to traditional vehicles.
Mercedes-Benz Bclass
"BYD's song Ultra EV marks the dynasty line's first B-class pure electric small SUV. This targets Chinese buyers who now treat battery power"
The Mercedes-Benz B-Class is a small car that has a lot of room inside, making it great for city driving and carrying things. It's a fancy car that people like because it looks good and is comfortable to drive.
The Mercedes-Benz B-Class is a compact MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) that combines the practicality of a small van with the luxury and performance expected from the Mercedes brand. It has been designed to cater to urban drivers looking for a stylish yet functional vehicle.
supply chain control
"...BYD's supply chain control, everything from battery cells to semiconductors enables competitive pricing..."
Supply chain control is how a company manages everything needed to make and sell their products. For car companies, this means making sure they have the right parts and materials to build cars efficiently.
Supply chain control refers to a company's ability to manage the flow of goods and services, including all processes that transform raw materials into final products. In the automotive industry, effective supply chain management can lead to cost savings and improved product quality.
semiconductors
"...everything from battery cells to semiconductors enables competitive pricing alongside continuous upgrades."
Semiconductors are special materials used in electronics that help control electrical signals. In cars, they are important for things like engines and entertainment systems.
Semiconductors are materials that have electrical conductivity between conductors and insulators. They are essential in modern electronics, including automotive applications, where they are used in everything from engine control units to infotainment systems.
BYD Dolphin
"Approved models include the Seagull, Dolphin, Seal, and Atto 3..."
The BYD Dolphin is a compact electric hatchback car made by BYD. It's designed for everyday driving and is efficient.
The BYD Dolphin is another electric vehicle from BYD, positioned as a compact hatchback. It focuses on providing a practical and efficient driving experience for everyday use.
Byd Seal
"Approved models include the Seagull, Dolphin, Seal, and Atto 3..."
The BYD Seal is a mid-size electric sedan made by BYD. It has a modern design and is built for good performance and range.
The BYD Seal is a mid-size electric sedan from BYD, featuring modern design and technology. It aims to compete in the growing electric sedan market with a focus on performance and range.
BYD Atto 3
"Approved models include the Seagull, Dolphin, Seal, and Atto 3..."
The BYD Atto 3 is an electric SUV made by BYD. It's designed to be spacious and comfortable, making it great for families.
The BYD Atto 3 is an electric SUV designed for versatility and comfort. It offers a spacious interior and advanced technology features, appealing to families and adventure seekers alike.
BYD Seagull
"Approved models include the Seagull, Dolphin, Seal, and Atto 3..."
The BYD Seagull is a small electric car made by BYD. It's meant to be affordable and is good for driving in cities.
The BYD Seagull is one of the electric passenger car models produced by BYD. It is designed to be an affordable and compact electric vehicle, catering to urban drivers.
MG
"SAIC's MG, very, very popular in the UK and the European Union."
MG is a car brand that makes affordable and sporty cars. It's popular in places like the UK and Europe.
MG is a British automotive brand owned by SAIC, known for producing affordable cars with a sporty design. It has gained popularity in various markets, including the UK and Europe.
SAIC
"SAIC's MG, very, very popular in the UK and the European Union."
SAIC is a big car company in China that makes cars under its own brands and partners with other car companies. They are important in the car market.
SAIC Motor Corporation Limited is one of the largest automotive manufacturers in China, known for its joint ventures with global brands and its own brands like MG. It plays a significant role in the automotive market both domestically and internationally.
Ford Explorer
"...oll-off, car carriers, I've talked about like the Explorer number one, the Shenzhen and the FAA and more."
The Ford Explorer is a big family car that can carry a lot of people and their stuff. It's great for road trips and everyday driving, which is why many people like to talk about it.
The Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV that has been a staple in the American automotive market since its introduction in 1990. Known for its spacious interior, versatility, and family-friendly features, it has become a popular choice for those seeking a reliable vehicle for both daily commutes and adventures.
electric vehicle
"Cherry is reviving China's iconic QQ brand with an all-electric QQ3. This will launch in a couple of days time on February the 6th."
An electric vehicle is a type of car that runs on electricity instead of gas. This means it doesn't produce exhaust fumes and is better for the environment.
An electric vehicle (EV) is a car that is powered entirely by electricity rather than gasoline or diesel. The Cherry QQ3 is an example of an EV, which is becoming increasingly popular due to environmental concerns and advancements in battery technology.
wheelbase
"with a 2.7 meter wheelbase. So it's a compact electric vehicle"
The wheelbase is how far apart the front and back wheels are on a car. A longer distance can make the car feel more stable and spacious inside.
Wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear axles of a vehicle. A longer wheelbase can contribute to a smoother ride and more interior space.
Qualcomm 8155 chip
"powered by Qualcomm's 8155 chip while Cherry's own Falcon 500 system provides things like highway navigation on autopilot"
The Qualcomm 8155 chip is a computer part that helps cars run smart features, like navigation and touch screens. It makes the car's technology work better.
The Qualcomm 8155 chip is a powerful processor used in automotive applications, enabling advanced features like high-resolution displays and connectivity in vehicles.
Ford Falcon
"...owered by Qualcomm's 8155 chip while Cherry's own Falcon 500 system provides things like highway navigatio..."
The Ford Falcon is a car that many people in Australia loved for many years. It's known for being strong and stylish, and it has a special place in the hearts of car fans.
The Ford Falcon was a popular car model produced by Ford, particularly known in Australia from the 1960s until 2016. It was significant for its role in the Australian automotive industry and is often discussed for its performance and classic design.
autopilot
"provides things like highway navigation on autopilot"
Autopilot is a system that helps the car drive itself in some situations, like on the highway. It can steer and control speed, but the driver still needs to pay attention.
Autopilot refers to advanced driver-assistance systems that can control the vehicle's steering, acceleration, and braking under certain conditions, allowing for semi-automated driving.
full scenario parking assistance
"and what they call full scenario parking assistance. The powertrain prioritizes urban efficiency"
Full scenario parking assistance is a feature that helps you park your car automatically. It can steer, speed up, and slow down the car for you, making parking easier in different situations.
Full scenario parking assistance refers to advanced driver-assistance systems that help drivers park their vehicles by automatically controlling steering, acceleration, and braking. This technology can handle various parking situations, including parallel and perpendicular parking.
lithium-ion phosphate technology
"The battery pack is lithium-ion phosphate technology. It has a motor of just 58 kilowatts"
Lithium-ion phosphate technology is a kind of battery used in electric cars. It's safe and lasts a long time, making it a good choice for powering vehicles.
Lithium-ion phosphate technology is a type of rechargeable battery technology known for its safety, thermal stability, and long cycle life. It's commonly used in electric vehicles due to its ability to provide reliable power and efficiency.
kilowatt
"It has a motor of just 58 kilowatts and a 125 kilometer per hour top speed"
A kilowatt is a way to measure how much power something uses or produces. In cars, it tells you how strong an electric motor is; more kilowatts mean more power.
A kilowatt is a unit of power equal to 1,000 watts. In automotive terms, it is often used to measure the power output of electric motors, with higher kilowatt ratings indicating more powerful motors.
top speed
"and a 125 kilometer per hour top speed but that's ideal for city use, even ring road driving."
Top speed is the fastest a car can go when everything is perfect. It's an important number that shows how powerful a car is.
Top speed refers to the maximum speed a vehicle can achieve under ideal conditions. It is an important performance metric for cars, indicating how fast they can go.
premium crossovers
"...Chinese manufacturers now offer extensive model ranges spanning city cars to premium crossovers..."
Premium crossovers are fancy cars that mix the size and space of SUVs with the comfort of regular cars. They usually have a lot of nice features and are popular with buyers.
Premium crossovers are high-end vehicles that combine features of SUVs and passenger cars, offering luxury, comfort, and advanced technology. They are popular among consumers looking for a versatile vehicle with upscale amenities.
battery fire risk
"...where tight parking and dense urban charging networks can amplify the risk of a very rare but not 0% battery fire risk. Chinese regulators require car makers..."
Battery fire risk is the chance that a battery can catch fire, which is a concern for electric cars. Car makers work hard to make sure this doesn't happen.
Battery fire risk refers to the potential for batteries, especially lithium-ion types used in electric vehicles, to catch fire under certain conditions. This risk is taken seriously by manufacturers and regulators to ensure passenger safety.
electronic door locks
"Cars that use electronic door locks are fine. You can still use the fancy electronic technology"
These are locks that work with electricity instead of just a key. They let you unlock your car with a button or a remote control.
Electronic door locks are locking mechanisms that use electronic components to secure a vehicle's doors, often allowing for keyless entry and remote locking/unlocking features.
pulling force
"Exterior handles must endure at least 500 newtons of pulling force without breaking or coming off. Insterior handles face their own list"
This is how strong you need to pull to open something, like a door. It's measured in a unit called newtons, which tells you how heavy the pull is.
Pulling force refers to the amount of force applied to pull an object, measured in newtons, which indicates how much weight or strength is needed to operate a mechanism like a door handle.
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