{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"CHINA: NIOs New Flagship, Xiaomi Upgrade SU7 and BYD Plans Long Range Hybrids | 09 Jan 2026","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/china-nios-new-flagship-xiaomi-upgrade-su7-and-byd-plans-long-range-hybrids-09-jan-2026","audioUrl":"https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/audioboom.com/posts/8828600.mp3?modified=1768148131&sid=5051980&source=rss","description":"Can you help me make more podcasts? Consider supporting me on Patreon as the service is 100% funded by you: https://EVne.ws/patreon\nYou can read all the latest news on the blog here: https://EVne.ws/blog\nSubscribe for free and listen to the podcast on audio platforms:➤ Apple: https://EVne.ws/apple➤ YouTube Music: https://EVne.ws/youtubemusic➤ Spotify: https://EVne.ws/spotify➤ TuneIn: https://EVne.ws/tunein➤ iHeart: https://EVne.ws/iheart\nNIO PREPARES GIANT NEW FLAGSHIP SUV https://evne.ws/3Yu7sqZ\nXIAOMI UPGRADES SU7 ELECTRIC SALOON RANGE https://evne.ws/3L3Megz\nBYD PLANS LONGER-RANGE PLUG-IN HYBRIDS https://evne.ws/4jALFHW\nCHINA WARNS BATTERY MAKERS: BUILD LESS, SELL MORE https://evne.ws/4swS9eI\nCHINA’S NEV MARKET GROWS https://evne.ws/4prLNKO\nCATL BUILDS A TWO-TRACK FUTURE FOR SWAPPABLE EVS https://evne.ws/4aP12tM\nXPENG REFRESHES LINEUP https://evne.ws/4bpAMq7\nXPENG P7+ REVEALED AS CHINESE TESLA MODEL 3 RIVAL https://evne.ws/3Yqv1kt\n"},"annotations":[{"startTime":151.0,"endTime":153.7,"type":"car","title":"Nio","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/42/NIO_ET5.jpg","quote":"Neo is preparing a giant new flagship.","canonicalId":"car:nio","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Nio is a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer known for its innovative designs and technology, focusing on high-performance electric cars.","simplifiedExplanation":"Nio is a car company from China that makes electric vehicles, which are cars powered by electricity instead of gasoline.","imageAttribution":"conceptphoto.info (CC BY 2.0)"}},{"startTime":153.7,"endTime":158.6,"type":"brand","title":"Rolls-Royce","url":"/glossary/rolls-royce","quote":"If you park a Rolls-Royce Color Man in a standard parking bay, the British barge will test the painted white lines.","canonicalId":"brand:rolls-royce","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Rolls-Royce is a prestigious British luxury automobile manufacturer known for producing high-end vehicles that emphasize comfort, craftsmanship, and performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"Rolls-Royce is a famous car brand that makes very expensive and luxurious cars, often seen as a symbol of wealth."}},{"startTime":173.5,"endTime":176.3,"type":"car","title":"NIO ES9","url":"/cars/nio/es9","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c5/Nio_ES9_001.jpg","quote":"Neo is preparing a new range-topping ES9 for China's top-end segment. The models appeared in the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology filings.","canonicalId":"car:nio:es9","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Neo ES9 is a new flagship SUV from the Chinese automaker Neo, designed to compete in the high-end segment of the market. It is positioned above the ES8 in their lineup, indicating a focus on luxury and advanced features.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Neo ES9 is a new luxury SUV made by a Chinese company called Neo. It's meant to be a top-of-the-line model, even better than their previous ES8 model.","imageAttribution":"JustAnotherCarDesigner (CC0)"}},{"startTime":186.8,"endTime":190.4,"type":"concept","title":"SUV","url":"/glossary/suv","quote":"Neo builds it as the flagship of its SUV lineup, and the ES9 unsurprisingly sits above the ES8.","canonicalId":"concept:suv","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"An SUV, or Sport Utility Vehicle, is a versatile vehicle type that combines elements of road-going passenger cars with off-road vehicles. They typically offer higher ground clearance, spacious interiors, and the ability to handle a variety of terrains.","simplifiedExplanation":"An SUV is a type of car that is bigger and higher off the ground than regular cars. They usually have more space inside and can be used for different types of driving, like on rough roads."}},{"startTime":190.4,"endTime":194.02,"type":"car","title":"Nio ES8","url":"/cars/nio/es8","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d9/NIO_ES8_II_001.jpg","quote":"...ineup,  and the ES9 unsurprisingly sits above the ES8.  ES9 sticks to Neo's current design language.","canonicalId":"car:nio:es8","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Nio ES8 is a premium electric SUV produced by the Chinese automaker Nio. Launched in 2018, it features advanced technology, a spacious interior, and a focus on performance, making it significant in the growing electric vehicle market, especially in China.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Nio ES8 is a fancy electric SUV from China that can carry a lot of people and has cool tech features. It's important because it shows how electric cars are becoming more popular and offers a stylish option for those looking to go green.","imageAttribution":"JustAnotherCarDesigner (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":215.2,"endTime":216.9,"type":"part","title":"LiDAR sensor","url":"/glossary/lidar-sensor","quote":"...a LiDAR sensor in the middle with high-def cameras on either side. Together, they form a sensor suite...","canonicalId":"part:lidar-sensor","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensors use laser light to measure distances and create a 3D map of the environment around a vehicle. This technology is crucial for autonomous driving and advanced safety features.","simplifiedExplanation":"A LiDAR sensor is a device that helps cars understand their surroundings by using laser light to measure distances. It's important for features that help with driving safely and autonomously."}},{"startTime":220.4,"endTime":222.9,"type":"term","title":"ADAS","url":"/glossary/adas","quote":"...high-end platform for ADAS-assisted driving. Hardware, in the other words,...","canonicalId":"term:adas","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"ADAS stands for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, which are technologies designed to enhance vehicle safety and facilitate driving. These systems can include features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking.","simplifiedExplanation":"ADAS means Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. These are features in cars that help drivers by making driving safer and easier, like helping to keep the car in its lane or automatically braking if something is in the way."}},{"startTime":258.72,"endTime":262.2,"type":"term","title":"dual-motor all-wheel-drive system","url":"/glossary/dual-motor-all-wheel-drive-system","quote":"Power, well, that comes from a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. 180 kW at the front, 340 at the back combined, almost 700 horsepower.","canonicalId":"term:dual-motor-all-wheel-drive-system","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A dual-motor all-wheel-drive system uses two electric motors, one for the front wheels and another for the rear, providing improved traction and performance compared to traditional systems. This setup allows for better handling and acceleration in various driving conditions.","simplifiedExplanation":"This is a type of car system that uses two electric motors to power all four wheels. It helps the car grip the road better and can make it faster and more stable when driving."}},{"startTime":262.2,"endTime":263.8,"type":"term","title":"kW","quote":"180 kW at the front, 340 at the back combined, almost 700 horsepower.","canonicalId":"term:kw","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Kilowatt (kW) is a unit of power equal to 1,000 watts. In automotive terms, it is commonly used to measure the power output of electric motors. Higher kW ratings indicate more powerful motors, which can enhance vehicle performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"kW stands for kilowatt, which is a way to measure how much power something uses or produces. In cars, it tells you how strong the electric motors are."}},{"startTime":265.6,"endTime":268.1,"type":"term","title":"horsepower","url":"/glossary/horsepower","quote":"almost 700 horsepower. The battery, in case you're wondering, well, that's supplied by CATL.","canonicalId":"term:horsepower","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to describe the output of engines and motors. It indicates how much work an engine can perform over time, with higher horsepower generally leading to better acceleration and performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The more horsepower a car has, the faster it can go and the better it can perform."}},{"startTime":269.9,"endTime":272.1,"type":"company","title":"CATL","url":"/glossary/catl","quote":"that's supplied by CATL. Probably a 102 kWh pack tied into Neo's three-minute battery-swapping network.","canonicalId":"company:catl","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"CATL, or Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited, is a Chinese battery manufacturer known for producing lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles. They are one of the largest battery suppliers in the world, providing batteries for various automakers.","simplifiedExplanation":"CATL is a big company that makes batteries for electric cars. They are one of the largest battery makers in the world and supply many car manufacturers."}},{"startTime":272.1,"endTime":274.7,"type":"term","title":"kWh","url":"/glossary/kwh","quote":"Probably a 102 kWh pack tied into Neo's three-minute battery-swapping network. That keeps the ES9 compatible with the firm's existing battery-swapping network.","canonicalId":"term:kwh","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Kilowatt-hour (kWh) is a unit of energy that measures how much electricity a battery can store and provide over time. In electric vehicles, a higher kWh rating indicates a larger battery capacity, allowing for longer driving ranges between charges.","simplifiedExplanation":"kWh stands for kilowatt-hour, which tells you how much energy a battery can hold. A bigger number means the battery can power the car for a longer time before needing to be recharged."}},{"startTime":274.7,"endTime":277.4,"type":"term","title":"battery-swapping network","url":"/glossary/battery-swapping-network","quote":"tied into Neo's three-minute battery-swapping network. That keeps the ES9 compatible with the firm's existing battery-swapping network.","canonicalId":"term:battery-swapping-network","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A battery-swapping network allows electric vehicle owners to quickly exchange their depleted battery for a fully charged one at designated stations. This system can significantly reduce downtime compared to traditional charging methods, making electric vehicles more convenient for users.","simplifiedExplanation":"A battery-swapping network is a system where you can quickly change your empty battery for a fully charged one at special stations. This makes it faster and easier to keep driving without waiting for the battery to charge."}},{"startTime":400.1,"endTime":402.9,"type":"term","title":"volt system","url":"/glossary/volt-system","quote":"The standard and pro go from a 400 volt to an 800 volt system. The max trim is almost a 900 volt architecture.","canonicalId":"term:volt-system","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A volt system refers to the electrical architecture of a vehicle, indicating the voltage level at which the electrical components operate. Higher voltage systems, such as 800 volts, can improve efficiency and performance, especially in electric vehicles.","simplifiedExplanation":"A volt system shows how much electrical power the car's components use. Higher voltage means the car can be more efficient and perform better, especially if it's electric."}},{"startTime":426.28,"endTime":427.68,"type":"car","title":"Tesla Model 3","url":"/cars/tesla/model-3","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/97/Tesla_Model_3%2C_EMS_2024%2C_Essen_%28P1032260%29.jpg","quote":"...that creep ever closer to the big competitor the Tesla Model 3.","canonicalId":"car:tesla:model-3","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Tesla Model 3 is an all-electric sedan that has gained popularity for its performance, range, and advanced technology features. It is known for its minimalist interior and high safety ratings.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Tesla Model 3 is a popular electric car that can drive long distances on a single charge. It's known for being fast and having a simple, modern design inside.","imageAttribution":"Matti Blume (CC BY-SA)"}},{"startTime":426.28,"endTime":427.68,"type":"car","title":"Tesla Model","url":"/cars/tesla/model-y","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5c/Tesla_Model_Y_%282025%29_MYLE_Festival_2025_DSC_9565.jpg","quote":"to the big competitor  the Tesla Model 3.  It's still cheaper but not by as much as it u...","canonicalId":"car:tesla:model-y","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"imageAttribution":"Alexander Migl (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":431.6,"endTime":432.4,"type":"brand","title":"BYD","url":"/glossary/byd","quote":"Now BYD will launch long range versions of its four mass market plug-in hybrids this month.","canonicalId":"brand:byd","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"BYD is a Chinese automotive manufacturer known for its electric vehicles and battery technology. The company has been expanding its lineup of plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles to compete in the growing market.","simplifiedExplanation":"BYD is a car company from China that makes electric cars and hybrids. They are trying to attract more customers by launching new models."}},{"startTime":432.4,"endTime":434.3,"type":"concept","title":"plug-in hybrids","url":"/glossary/plug-in-hybrid","quote":"Now BYD will launch long range versions of its four mass market plug-in hybrids this month.","canonicalId":"concept:plug-in-hybrid","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Plug-in hybrids are vehicles that can run on both gasoline and electricity. They have a rechargeable battery that can be charged from an external power source, allowing for longer electric-only driving ranges compared to traditional hybrids.","simplifiedExplanation":"Plug-in hybrids are cars that can use both gas and electricity. You can charge them at home, and they can drive longer distances on electric power alone than regular hybrids."}},{"startTime":442.1,"endTime":444.2,"type":"car","title":"BYD Dolphin","url":"/cars/byd/dolphin","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/56/BYD_Atto_2_DSC_8763.jpg","quote":"The new models cover two solos in the chin range and two in the seal family.","canonicalId":"car:byd:dolphin","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.75,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The BYD Dolphin is a compact electric vehicle that aims to provide an affordable option for consumers looking to transition to electric driving, featuring modern design and technology.","simplifiedExplanation":"The BYD Dolphin is a small electric car from BYD. It's made to be affordable and is a good choice for people wanting to drive electric.","imageAttribution":"Alexander Migl (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":442.1,"endTime":444.2,"type":"car","title":"BYD Seal","url":"/cars/byd/seal","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/0d/BYD_Seal%2C_IAA_Open_Space_2023%2C_Munich_%28P1120203%29.jpg","quote":"The new models cover two solos in the chin range and two in the seal family.","canonicalId":"car:byd:seal","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.8,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The BYD Seal is an electric sedan that is part of BYD's lineup, designed to offer a combination of performance and efficiency in the growing electric vehicle market.","simplifiedExplanation":"The BYD Seal is an electric car made by BYD. It's designed to be efficient and perform well, appealing to those looking for a modern electric vehicle.","imageAttribution":"Matti Blume (CC BY-SA)"}},{"startTime":474.4,"endTime":477.5,"type":"term","title":"fast charging","url":"/glossary/fast-charging","quote":"...fast charging to 80% in 20 minutes.","canonicalId":"term:fast-charging","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Fast charging refers to the ability to charge an electric vehicle's battery at a significantly higher rate than standard charging, allowing for quicker replenishment of battery power. This is particularly useful for long-distance travel.","simplifiedExplanation":"Fast charging means you can charge an electric car's battery much faster than normal. This helps you get back on the road quickly when you need to recharge."}},{"startTime":480.5,"endTime":482.4,"type":"part","title":"blade battery","url":"/glossary/blade-battery","quote":"...the BYD blade battery which engineers designed for hybrid duty...","canonicalId":"part:blade-battery","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The BYD blade battery is a type of lithium iron phosphate battery designed for electric vehicles. Its flat design allows for better space utilization and improved safety compared to traditional battery formats.","simplifiedExplanation":"The blade battery is a special kind of battery made by BYD for electric cars. It is flat and helps make the car safer and more efficient."}},{"startTime":482.4,"endTime":483.7,"type":"term","title":"energy density","url":"/glossary/energy-density","quote":"...to increase energy density and have the flat cell-to-pack format...","canonicalId":"term:energy-density","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Energy density refers to the amount of energy stored in a given volume or mass of a battery. Higher energy density means a battery can store more energy, allowing for longer driving ranges in electric vehicles.","simplifiedExplanation":"Energy density is how much energy a battery can hold in a certain amount of space. If a battery has high energy density, it can make an electric car go further before needing a charge."}},{"startTime":1046.3,"endTime":1048.6,"type":"term","title":"wheelbase","url":"/glossary/wheelbase","quote":"Now measuring just over 5 meters long and 1.5 meters high on a 3 meter wheelbase. Quite a big vehicle.","canonicalId":"term:wheelbase","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear axles of a vehicle. A longer wheelbase can contribute to better stability and ride comfort, especially in larger vehicles.","simplifiedExplanation":"Wheelbase is how far apart the front and back wheels are on a car. A longer distance can make the car feel more stable when driving."}},{"startTime":1050.3,"endTime":1052.0,"type":"term","title":"LCD instrument cluster","url":"/glossary/lcd-instrument-cluster","quote":"inside an 8.8 inch LCD instrument cluster behind the steering wheel and a 29 inch","canonicalId":"term:lcd-instrument-cluster","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"An LCD instrument cluster is a digital display that shows important information about the vehicle, such as speed, fuel level, and navigation. It replaces traditional analog gauges with a screen that can provide more detailed and customizable information.","simplifiedExplanation":"An LCD instrument cluster is a screen in the car that shows you important information like how fast you're going and how much gas you have. It's a modern version of the old-fashioned dials."}},{"startTime":1056.7,"endTime":1058.5,"type":"term","title":"augmented reality head-up display","url":"/glossary/augmented-reality-head-up-display","quote":"augmented reality head up display projecting key data into the driver's line of sight.","canonicalId":"term:augmented-reality-head-up-display","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"An augmented reality head-up display (AR HUD) projects important information, such as speed and navigation, directly onto the windshield, allowing drivers to see data without taking their eyes off the road. This technology enhances safety and convenience by keeping key information in the driver's line of sight.","simplifiedExplanation":"An augmented reality head-up display is a screen that shows important information on your windshield, so you don't have to look down at your dashboard while driving. It helps you keep your eyes on the road while still seeing things like your speed or directions."}},{"startTime":1065.8,"endTime":1068.7,"type":"term","title":"range extended engine","url":"/glossary/range-extended-engine","quote":"A new 20 speaker audio system and it will use a 1.5 liter range extended engine if you don't want the full electric version.","canonicalId":"term:range-extended-engine","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A range extended engine is a small internal combustion engine used in electric vehicles to generate electricity, extending the vehicle's range when the battery is depleted. It acts as a generator rather than directly driving the wheels, allowing for longer trips without relying solely on battery power.","simplifiedExplanation":"A range extended engine is a small gas engine that helps charge the battery of an electric car when it runs low. It doesn't directly power the wheels but gives you extra driving distance before you need to recharge."}},{"startTime":1079.5,"endTime":1081.7,"type":"term","title":"kilowatt hour","url":"/glossary/kilowatt-hour","quote":"...generates electricity for a 49.2 kilowatt hour pack. That is 267 miles of electric only range if you plug the thing in.","canonicalId":"term:kilowatt-hour","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A kilowatt hour (kWh) is a unit of energy that represents the amount of energy consumed by a device using one kilowatt of power for one hour. It's commonly used to measure the capacity of electric vehicle batteries.","simplifiedExplanation":"A kilowatt hour is how we measure electricity. If you think of it like a gallon of gas, it tells you how much energy a battery can store and use."}},{"startTime":1088.0,"endTime":1091.7,"type":"term","title":"C-rate","url":"/glossary/crate","quote":"...Xpong says 5C that's a C-rate, it's a measure of charging speed and discharging speed too.","canonicalId":"term:crate","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"C-rate is a measure used to describe the rate at which a battery is charged or discharged relative to its capacity. A C-rate of 1C means the battery will be fully charged or discharged in one hour.","simplifiedExplanation":"C-rate tells you how fast a battery can be charged or used. For example, if a battery has a C-rate of 1, it means it can be charged in one hour."}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"Martyn Lee","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/china-nios-new-flagship-xiaomi-upgrade-su7-and-byd-plans-long-range-hybrids-09-jan-2026/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}