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The AITO M7 EREV Long-Range variant has commenced delivery from Seres' Longxing super factory in Chongqing on February 4. Priced between 299,800-319,800 yuan, the model measures 5080/1999/1780mm with a 3030mm wheelbase, offering five- and six-seat configurations. Power comes from a 1.5T range-extender (118kW maximum output) delivering 327km CLTC electric range and 1690km combined range. Equipment includes Huawei Qiankun ADS 4 advanced autonomous driving, dual-chamber air suspension, and continuous damping control. The M7 has surpassed 400,000 cumulative deliveries, accounting for over 40% of AITO's total sales, supported by a service network spanning 400+ user centers and 700+ experience centers across 220+ cities.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) Regional Forum, held in Liverpool for the first time, brings together UK automotive leaders to explore leveraging the shift to zero emission mobility for new business and growth in the North West. Since 2021, global brands have invested £2.8 billion in the region, transforming factories to produce electric vehicles and components, directly creating 20,000 jobs. The North West is crucial to UK automotive manufacturing, producing one-seventh of the country's vehicles last year, equivalent to over 140,000 units. The forum will discuss attracting further investment and creating new business opportunities to boost regional economic development.

The next-generation Lexus ES has been spotted at dealerships ahead of its April market launch. The redesign features the brand's evolved spindle grille—now closed-off for electrification—paired with split-type irregular LED headlamps comprising lightning-bolt DRLs above and integrated main beams within vertical black trim panels. A trapezoidal lower grille with graduated diamond patterning completes the front fascia. The model will debut with both hybrid and battery-electric powertrains, initially offered as CBU imports before transitioning to local production upon completion of Lexus' Chinese manufacturing facility.

SMMT data reveals the UK used car market sustained post-pandemic recovery in 2025, with EV transactions surging nearly 50% to represent nearly one in ten sales. The industry faces significant workforce transformation, with almost two-thirds of roles requiring new competencies in battery management, high-voltage systems, and AI within a decade. SMMT showcased automotive apprentices at the House of Lords, highlighting sector commitment to talent development. Additionally, SMMT partnered with the Bus Centre of Excellence to launch "Meet the Bus Operator," facilitating zero-emission bus fleet decarbonisation through targeted investment and supplier engagement at the Commercial Vehicle Show.

The Lepas L4 SUV from Chery's new sub-brand has been spotted in Malaysia during promotional filming, signaling the brand's local market entry in H1 2026. Featuring the "Leopard Aesthetic" design language, the L4 measures 4,406mm in length with a 2,700mm wheelbase, surpassing competitors like the Honda HR-V and Toyota Corolla Cross in interior space. Distinctive elements include a radiating chrome grille and 1.5-liter turbocharged engine (147 PS/225 Nm) paired with a six-speed DCT. The L4 and flagship L8 are slated for South African launch in March, with Malaysian introduction to follow.

Honda has revealed additional production details of the Super-One ahead of its Japanese launch later this year. The hot hatch features a new "Boost Violet Pearl" hero color inspired by blue jet lightning, with wheel diameter reduced from 16 to 15 inches while retaining the eight-spoke two-tone heat-sink design. The interior builds upon the N-One e: architecture with heavily bolstered sport seats, a purple Boost button on the steering wheel, and a dedicated seven-inch instrument display showing battery temperature, power meter, and simulated tachometer. As the first compact Honda to feature a Bose eight-speaker sound system, the Super-One is expected to utilize a 29.6 kWh battery with WLTP range slightly below the N-One e:'s 295 km rating.