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Honda plans to source around 400,000 hybrid vehicle batteries from Toyota’s North Carolina plant to circumvent tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump. Toyota’s $14 billion factory, its first battery plant outside Japan, will begin production next month. This move is part of a broader trend among Japanese automakers to restructure supply chains in response to US tariffs. Demand for efficient hybrids is rising in the US, while President Trump plans to scrap his predecessor’s initiative to promote electric vehicles. By 2030, hybrid vehicle sales in the US are projected to double last year’s figure to 4.12 million units, accounting for a quarter of new car sales. Honda aims to sell 1.3 million hybrids globally (excluding China) by 2030, a 50% increase from last year. However, Trump’s trade policies pose challenges, with a 20% tariff on Chinese imports and plans to raise tariffs on Japanese car imports from 2.5% to 25%. Japan exports 1.3 million cars to the US annually, and the tariff hike is expected to cost Japan’s six major automakers approximately $20 billion.

Chery Fengyun T10 has garnered market attention for its affordable price and excellent cost-effectiveness. With a national minimum transaction price of 180,400 yuan, a maximum cash discount of 19,700 yuan, and a maximum discount of 8.96%, it offers significant value. The model excels in space and appearance, scoring 4.60 points. It sold 198 units in the past month, indicating strong market acceptance. Nationwide promotions with substantial discounts make it an attractive option for consumers.

Tesla has launched the Model 3 Long Range Rear-Drive version, priced at 269,500 RMB. The new model features a 78.4kWh LG NCM battery, offering a CLTC range of 830km (18-inch wheels) or 800km (19-inch wheels). It retains the family design with an added “Model 3+” badge. The Performance AWD version's range is also upgraded to 647km. Tesla is also offering several limited-time promotions.

BYD is set to release a more powerful Track Edition of its Yangwang U9. According to filings with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), the Track Edition boasts a massive 3,018 PS (2,220 kW), thanks to four electric motors each producing 755 PS (555 kW). This is a significant upgrade from the standard U9’s 1,306 PS (960 kW). The Track Edition is expected to hit a top speed of 350 km/h, though it may exceed this given the standard U9’s record of 391.91 km/h at the Nürburgring. BYD aims to reclaim the title of the fastest electric production car on the Nürburgring from Xiaomi’s SU7 Ultra with this new model. Visually, the Track Edition features 20-inch wheels, a carbon-fibre roof, a fixed rear wing, and a prominent diffuser, with optional aerodynamic components for a more subtle look.

The BYD Seal in Malaysia is set for a minor upgrade, following the model’s enhancements in Singapore in April. Upgrades include an increased front trunk capacity from 50L to 53L, new alloy wheel designs, electric sunroof shades, and the DiSus-C adaptive damping system. The vehicle will be available in three variants: Dynamic (136 hp, 310 Nm, 61.44 kWh battery, WLTP range of 460 km), Premium (313 hp, 360 Nm, 82.56 kWh battery, range of 570 km), and Performance (dual-motor AWD, 530 hp, 670 Nm, range of 520 km). Charging supports up to 150 kW DC fast charging and 7 kW AC charging. Safety features include nine airbags, 360-degree cameras, adaptive cruise control, and AEB. Prices in Malaysia are RM163,800 for Dynamic, RM179,800 for Premium, and RM199,800 for Performance.

Perodua and Maybank Islamic have launched Malaysia’s first Shariah-compliant agility financing plan, called Perodua Flexiplan. Based on Maybank Islamic’s myimpact Drive Financing-i, it offers a competitive Murabahah Vehicle Term Financing deal with lower downpayments and monthly installments. After an initial five-year term, Perodua will buy back the vehicle at a competitive price for trade-in towards a new model. Eligible models include the Myvi, Axia (excluding the ‘Rahmah’ Axia E), Ativa, and Aruz. The plan enhances the Shariah-compliant solution ecosystem for Perodua owners.