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NIO has entered into a strategic partnership with Bosch, covering its three brands—NIO, ONVO and firefly—with focus on intelligent electric vehicle core technologies. The collaboration spans x-by-wire chassis systems including brake and steering control, drivetrain, body electronics and perception modules, as well as battery management systems. The agreement deepens Sino-German cooperation in energy transition and advanced manufacturing. NIO founder and CEO William Li attended the Sino-German Economic Advisory Committee symposium on February 25, engaging with German automotive executives on mutual development opportunities amid global industry electrification and intelligent transformation.

Honda has unveiled the facelifted ZR-V for the Japanese market, set for March 2026 launch with a hybrid-only lineup. The 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo engine has been discontinued in favor of the e:HEV powertrain, combining a 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle inline-four with a dual-motor hybrid system delivering 184 PS and 315 Nm. The model range has been streamlined from two to one trim level (Z), with Black Style and Cross Touring variants. The Black Style features a honeycomb grille, while the Cross Touring "special edition" adds rugged styling with side rocker panels, skid plate-equipped front bumper and light-colored interior with orange stitching. Positioned between the HR-V and returning CR-V, the Civic-based C-segment crossover transitions to full electrification for the Japanese market.

Porsche is developing a flagship three-row seven-seater SUV internally codenamed K1, positioned above the Cayenne in the brand's lineup. The model will offer configurations including four-seat and five-seat variants alongside the standard seven-seat layout. Sharing Volkswagen Group's PPC luxury ICE platform with the upcoming Audi Q9, the K1 will feature longitudinal engine placement with rear-wheel and all-wheel drive options. Powertrains will focus on large-displacement internal combustion engines, specifically 3.0-litre V6 and 4.0-litre V8 units, with no immediate plans for an all-electric variant. This strategic move targets the premium full-size SUV segment, competing directly with the Mercedes-Benz GLS and BMW X7, as Porsche adapts to slowing BEV market growth.

Geely Riddara Thailand is evaluating plans for a local EV production facility following its October 2024 market entry with the RD6 electric pick-up. General manager Cao Feng expressed confidence in the long-term growth potential of BEV pick-ups despite current market slowdowns, citing superior energy efficiency over fossil fuel counterparts. The RD6 is priced between 899,000-1,299,000 baht, offering RWD and dual-motor 4WD variants with 63-86 kWh batteries, 815 mm wading depth and 1,030 kg payload capacity. The company targets 3,000-5,000 unit sales this year with new single-cab fleet variants, while exploring expansion into Myanmar, Laos, the Philippines and Malaysia.

Hyundai Motor Group has signed an MOU with the South Korean government and Jeonbuk State to establish a KRW 9 trillion innovation hub in Saemangeum. The project encompasses an AI data center, robotics manufacturing cluster, 200 MW-class PEM electrolyzer plant, and gigawatt-scale solar infrastructure, with operations commencing from 2027. Through the D.E.S.I.G.N. framework, the Group will develop an AI hydrogen smart city, integrating physical AI, hydrogen economy and intelligent manufacturing technologies to enhance Korea's industrial competitiveness and drive regional economic growth.

During his visit to China, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz joined Mercedes-Benz Group CEO Ola Källenius for a test ride of the new S-Class in Beijing, experiencing the urban and highway pilot assist driving system co-developed with Momenta. The S 450 L 4MATIC variant, measuring 5,304/1,921/1,503 mm with a 3,216 mm wheelbase, made its domestic debut in metallic green with Y-spoke silver wheels. Mercedes-Benz and Momenta simultaneously signed an upgraded strategic cooperation MoU to accelerate full-industry-chain localization. Mercedes-Benz became the first international automaker to invest in Momenta in 2017.