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Nissan plans to export electric vehicles (EVs) from its Chinese factories to Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and other regions starting in 2026. The N7 mid-size sedan, the first EV developed in China, will be among the first to be exported. Nissan has invested in China's IAT Automobile Technology to develop software for export markets. Additionally, Nissan has established a joint venture with Dongfeng Motor Group to handle vehicle exports. Nissan aims to leverage the cost-effectiveness of Chinese EVs to enhance its competitiveness in overseas markets.

Dongfeng Honda will launch the updated HR-V on Jan 8, adding Pro and Max variants. The compact SUV keeps its blacked-out honeycomb styling, measures 4569/1840/1611 mm on a 2655 mm wheelbase, and pairs a 134 kW/240 Nm 1.5T with CVT. Independent rear suspension and CONNECT 3.0 infotainment are standard; prices are promised to be more attractive.

BMW Group has finalized the trademark transfer of ALPINA, the 60-year-old BMW-tuned performance and customization marque, now operating as an independent high-performance sub-brand within the group, set to expand bespoke models and performance upgrades in the luxury segment.

Changan’s Rayong, Thailand plant—RM 581 million investment, 100 k annual capacity—has shipped its first 500 Deepal S05 SUVs (EV & REEV) to Europe within six months of start-up. Bermaz was to import the S05 CBU into Malaysia, but 2026 rules require new-brand CBU EVs to be priced ≥ RM 250k and deliver ≥ 200 kW; the S05 EV falls short on power, leaving its local launch subject to homologation timing.

The Volvo ES90 is now open for expressions of interest in Malaysia, with deliveries expected early this year. Built locally (CKD) on SPA2 with 800-V architecture, it supports 350 kW DC charging (10-80% in 22 min). The single-motor version delivers 333 PS/480 Nm and 651 km WLTP range, while Nvidia Drive AGX Orin handles AI and safety functions. First 100 buyers receive a 2% rebate until 31 March 2026.

Vacuum-maker Dreame will unveil its spun-off “Starry Sky Project”—now called Nebula Next—at CES on 5 Jan. The all-electric super-EV apes Bugatti Chiron/Mistral/Divo styling, swaps the horseshoe grille for a fixed wing, claims 1,000+ hp, 15 °C motor cooling and sub-1.8-second 0-100 km/h sprints, riding on six-lug wheels hinting at Ultium roots.