China’s EVs are Winning on Tech, Not Just Price
Tesla is often seen as the leader in electric vehicle technology, but a group of challengers are emerging. Recent EVs from China showcase innovative approaches to batteries, charging, and driver assistance, all while rapidly moving from concept to production.
Take the Zeekr 007, a competitor to the Tesla Model 3 from the Geely group. Zeekr claims to be the fastest-growing electric brand globally. The car features an in-house-developed ‘Golden Battery,’ a 75kWh LFP power pack. It can charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 10 and a half minutes on a compatible charger. Zeekr has also been deploying 1000kW ultra-fast chargers within China.
Zeekr 007
The 007 boasts a CLTC-rated range of 427 miles and adding over 300 miles of range in 15 minutes. With a dual-motor setup that produces 637bhp and 524lb-ft, the company claims it can outpace a Model 3 Performance in acceleration.
Moving on to Avatr, another Chinese brand, the 12 model, which competes with the Tesla Model S, is worth mentioning. The car reportedly boasts class-leading autonomous driving technology, incorporating Huawei’s latest Qiankun 3.0 system and three lidar units. This system allows for autonomous driving in Chinese urban environments and remote valet parking. With Tesla’s Full Self Driving not yet available in China, direct comparisons are difficult. However, the Huawei/Avatr system has performed well on China’s complex roads.
Avatr
The Tesla Model S is looking relatively dated in light of some new competition. The recently refreshed Nio ET7, launching in Europe soon, has been updated twice since its 2022 debut. The ET7 is the first Nio model to push further upmarket, offering impressive specs and Nio’s groundbreaking battery-swap technology.
Nio ET7
Nio’s approach contrasts with Tesla’s Supercharger network. Nio owners can get a fully charged battery in about three minutes through an automated process. The company has over 2,500 swap stations and has completed over 50 million battery changes since 2018. Moreover, the new semi-solid-state 150kWh battery enables boss William Li to stream a 621-mile drive earlier this year.
The Li Mega MPV, introduced earlier this year, features distinctive styling and remarkable charging speeds for its 102.7kWh battery, charging from 10 to 80 percent in just 12 minutes. With a peak charging power of more than 520kW and a drag coefficient of 0.215, the Mega’s range is 441 miles via the CLTC test cycle.
Li Auto Mega
Denza, a joint venture between BYD and Mercedes-Benz, has also seen a resurgence. The Z9 GT, its flagship model, resembles the Porsche Panamera. It has both pure EV and range extender versions. Its rear wheels can point in opposite directions, allowing the car to pivot around one front wheel. This allows for diagonal maneuvering in tight spaces and U-turns in just 4.62 meters. Like other Chinese EVs, the Z9 includes many convenience and infotainment features, such as high-end audio systems, rear passenger screens, and massaging seats.
Some of these vehicles and technologies will soon be available outside China. While the claims may not all hold up under the closest scrutiny, it’s evident why some Western manufacturers support tariffs on Chinese cars.
