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Chery, China's top car exporter, announced plans to establish an R&D center in Paris to develop a Europe-specific small city car tailored to local consumer preferences. The move marks Chery's strategic pivot from its SUV-focused European entry—via Omoda and Jaecoo brands—into the continent's iconic compact segment. "We want to build a French car for the French," stated Hanbang Yu, Chery France director, emphasizing the company's commitment to understanding regional design tastes. The initiative targets France's significant small car market, positioning Chery to compete against established European urban runabouts like the Fiat Cinquecento and Renault Twingo on their home terrain.

Spy shots of Lexus' first three-row electric flagship SUV TZ (possibly named TZ9) have been exposed. Based on Toyota's electric Highlander, it is positioned to compete with Volvo EX90 and is scheduled for release between late 2026 and early 2027. Its dimensions are basically consistent with the electric Highlander, with length, width and height of 5050/1989/1709mm and a wheelbase of 3051mm, featuring exclusive Lexus design details.

Hongqi's all-new E-HS4 electric compact SUV has been spotted ahead of the 2026 Beijing Auto Show. Positioned above the discontinued E-HS3, the model features design cues from the HS5, including a full-width taillight cluster, blacked-out exterior details, semi-flush door handles, and five-spoke petal wheels. The E-HS4 marks Hongqi's continued expansion into the NEV segment.

The IM LS8 has been spotted ahead of the Beijing Auto Show, with the model already launched in four variants priced from RMB 261,800 to RMB 311,800. Built on an 800V high-voltage architecture, it features the Stellar super range-extender system delivering up to 1,605km combined range. Design highlights include a full-width star-ring light bar, 7-shaped headlight array and roof-mounted LiDAR, with dimensions of 5,085×2,000×1,807mm and a 3,060mm wheelbase. The vehicle debuts the Lingxi Digital Chassis 3.0 with full wire-controlled steering and bi-directional 24° intelligent rear-wheel steering, significantly enhancing maneuverability and driving dynamics.

The all-new Hongqi H7 has been spotted ahead of its official debut at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show on April 24. Positioned as a luxury mid-to-large sedan, the vehicle measures 5,060×1,910×1,480mm with a 2,970mm wheelbase, featuring a fastback silhouette and semi-flush door handles. Design elements include a semi-closed grille signaling its new energy identity, vertical air vents with illuminated emblem, split headlights and H6-inspired taillights. Powertrain comprises a 1.5T plug-in hybrid system, with active air vents and hidden exhaust treatment. The model strengthens Hongqi's premium new energy sedan portfolio in the competitive luxury segment.

Isuzu Malaysia has opened a new 3S centre at 21 Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur, operated by dealer Autoexec Corporation as its third KL outlet. The facility consolidates the former Jalan Semarak 1S outlet into a larger space featuring the latest corporate identity, hero car display, delivery bay, customer lounge and merchandise area. The service centre operates daily except Sunday (9am-6pm) with capacity for simultaneous truck and pick-up truck maintenance. Isuzu Malaysia CEO Tomoyuki Yamaguchi stated the centrally-located centre will enhance brand presence and urban user engagement with Isuzu's product range.