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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.

Spy shots have emerged of the first collaborative model between FAW Group and Leapmotor, expected to launch this year. Under the partnership agreement, Leapmotor contributes full-stack self-developed electrification and intelligent technologies, while FAW provides plug-in hybrid/range-extender powertrain expertise and supply chain resources. The prototype features slim horizontal headlights without a full-width light bar, a flat closed grille and centered lower air intake, blending Hongqi Tiangong series design cues with Leapmotor's minimalist aesthetic. This collaboration represents a new model of technology integration between state-owned enterprises and emerging EV manufacturers.

Spy shots of the all-new Zhengzhou Nissan Paladin have emerged, revealing comprehensive exterior and interior revisions while maintaining its body-on-frame construction. Test mules utilize the current model's chassis with visible ladder-frame underpinnings, confirming its hardcore off-road positioning. The redesigned front end features a squarer hood profile, enlarged layered grille and vertical smoked headlight clusters for a more rugged aesthetic. The update modernizes the Paladin's appearance while preserving its professional off-road heritage, strengthening its position in the body-on-frame SUV segment.

Interior spy shots of the FAW Bestune Yueyi 08 have been revealed, showcasing the flagship R-series mid-size sedan ahead of its June debut. The BEV and EREV variants share identical cockpit designs featuring a digital instrument cluster, large floating central touchscreen and two-spoke multifunction steering wheel. Interior amenities include dual wireless charging pads, cup holders and an attention monitoring system on higher trims. The rear seats offer 60:40 split-folding functionality for expanded cargo capacity. The model will be available in both pure electric and range-extender configurations, strengthening Bestune's new energy vehicle lineup.

GAC Group held its 2026 High-Quality Development Conference on February 26, with Chairman Feng Xingya outlining strategic targets to return to 2 million unit annual sales. Following 2025 terminal sales of 1.8135 million units and nearly 130,000 self-brand exports, the Group will advance its "2+3+X" reform structure, accelerate overseas "Thousand Network" expansion with localized production, and target 200,000 export units in 2026. The Qijing Auto brand will launch its first model in June. Key 2025 milestones included all-solid-state battery pilot production and the Hyper GT climbing edition with 100% domestic chip design.

Porsche has officially revised the development plan for its flagship K1 SUV, abandoning the dedicated SSP electric platform in favor of sharing Volkswagen Group's Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) with the upcoming Audi Q9. The seven-seater luxury SUV will debut with internal combustion and plug-in hybrid powertrains in 2028, targeting the UK, US and Chinese markets. The strategic pivot addresses SSP software delays, slowing global EV demand and declining Taycan sales. Audi leads development of the shared architecture, with both models set for co-production at Bratislava plant. Original plans for Leipzig factory BEV production were shelved due to rising manufacturing costs, though the facility retains Cayenne EV capacity for future K1 electrification.