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According to 36Kr, Mercedes-Benz is developing a new EV platform codenamed 'Phoenix' using Geely's GEEA 4.0 E/E architecture, scheduled for production around 2030 to replace the current MMA platform for next-generation entry-level models including the A-Class, B-Class, GLA, GLB, and CLA. This marks the first time in the luxury brand's history that new platform development occurs outside Germany, with its China R&D centre serving as the global headquarters for compact vehicle development while the German base focuses on mid-size and large vehicles. The GEEA 4.0 architecture supports both EV and non-EV applications, succeeding the GEEA 3.0 debuted in the Geely Galaxy E5 (Proton eMas 7 twin). The move reflects Mercedes-Benz's cost-reduction strategy through deepened Geely partnership, following similar collaborations announced by Volkswagen and Stellantis with Chinese brands.

Chery has commenced pre-sales of the QQ3 EV, offering four variants with 310km and 420km ranges priced between 68,920 and 89,985 yuan. The battery-electric city car adopts a "smart roundness" design language with a closed grille and distinctive Q-shaped LED headlamps across six colour options. Technology highlights include the AI Lingxi intelligent cockpit, Carmind AI agent and Falcon 500 advanced driver assistance system, demonstrating Chery's strategy to democratise smart EV features in the entry-level segment.

Honda will cease fuel-cell production at its Brownstown, Michigan JV plant with GM by end-2026 and dissolve the 2017-formed FCSM partnership. Leveraging joint achievements such as the 2024 plug-in CR-V e:FCEV, Honda will commercialise its next-generation self-developed fuel-cell system in 2027, positioning hydrogen as a new core business after 30-plus years of R&D.

Lexus has officially opened pre-sales for the all-new ES on March 20, offering three variants priced from RMB 308,800 to 338,800 with optional RMB 12,000 Co-Pilot Comfort Package and RMB 30,000 Multi-Sensory Pure Enjoyment Package. The design inherits the LF-ZC concept's Clean Tech x Elegance language with a closed grille and trapezoidal air intakes. Dimensions measure 5,140/1,920/1,555mm (hybrid) with a 2,950mm wheelbase; hybrids feature 18-inch wheels while BEV variants adopt 21-inch units. The powertrain lineup debuts with a 2.0-liter hybrid system, with battery-electric variants to follow. Previous-generation ES200 continues sales alongside the new model.

The new Volvo EX30 officially launched on March 20 with three variants and limited-time pricing from RMB 159,800 to 209,800, representing significant reductions over previous pricing. The new Rear-Wheel Drive Plus replaces the discontinued Core trim, adding Pilot Assist, lane centering, power tailgate, panoramic glass roof, wireless charging, power front seats with driver memory, and Harman Kardon audio while maintaining 410km CLTC range. The Rear-Wheel Drive Long Range Ultra and Dual-Motor All-Wheel Drive Performance Ultra variants join the lineup, retaining the existing design with configuration-focused enhancements.

Li Auto's vehicle electrification product lead Tang Huayin announced on March 19 that the company has completed a comprehensive upgrade of its extended-range technology roadmap, with a full transition to the native EREV platform commencing in 2026—phasing out the long-standing "fuel-to-EREV" architecture. Early models including the Li ONE and L9 adapted conventional combustion engines for range-extender duty, a path that popularized EREVs domestically. Following cumulative deliveries exceeding one million units, data revealed this approach no longer met evolving customer demands for NVH refinement and operating economy. The native platform is purpose-built for series-hybrid applications, with the range-extender optimized solely for power generation—prioritizing NVH, thermal efficiency, service intervals, and packaging density over traditional power/torque metrics. Integration with 5C battery technology and ultra-fast charging infrastructure will deliver a transformed ownership experience.