l  BYD Dolphin Rolls Off Its One-Millionth Unit, Becoming the Fastest Model to Reach This Milestone in China’s A0-Segment Sedan Market

l  ZF Launches Active Chassis Noise Cancellation Software, Reducing Tire Noise Without Additional Hardware

l  Mercedes-Benz Announces Design Leadership Change, Boudi to Assume Role of Chief Design Officer in 2026

l  Tesla Cybercab Spotted in Austin Road Tests, Featuring No Pedals and Full-Version FSD

l  Great Wall Motor’s Sixth Brand to Debut, New Model Adopts Classic Retro Hood Emblem Design

l  Leapmotor D19 Interior Design Revealed, Launch Scheduled for H1 2026 with Blind Pre-Orders Open

l  smart #6 EHD Super Hybrid Revealed, Offering Up to 234 km of Pure Electric Range

l  Buick Zhijing Shijia Pure Electric Version to Launch in H1 2026, Offering Dual Range Options

l  Tesla Cybercab Begins Crash Testing, Only 130 Days Away from Mass Production

1.BYD Dolphin Rolls Off Its One-Millionth Unit, Becoming the Fastest Model to Reach This Milestone in China’s A0-Segment Sedan Market

On December 18, the BYD Dolphin reached a major milestone as its one-millionth vehicle rolled off the production line, becoming the fastest A0-segment sedan in China to achieve cumulative sales of one million units. As early as December 2, Zhang Zhuo, General Manager of BYD’s Ocean Network Sales Division, had officially announced via social media that cumulative sales had surpassed one million. Sales data disclosed by BYD on December 1 were particularly impressive: November deliveries reached 480,186 units, a new high for the year, while cumulative sales from January to November 2025 exceeded 4.18 million units, with total new energy vehicle sales surpassing 14.7 million units. Multiple brands under BYD and its overseas markets also performed strongly, with overseas sales exceeding 130,000 units, setting a new historical record.

2.ZF Launches Active Chassis Noise Cancellation Software, Reducing Tire Noise Without Additional Hardware

Recently, ZF introduced a new active chassis noise cancellation function that can reduce irritating tire noise at the source without installing additional in-cabin hardware. This purely software-based solution is also planned to be expanded to more chassis actuator products in the future. The function is based on ZF’s intelligent chassis sensors, whose built-in accelerometers precisely monitor body vibrations transmitted from the tires through the chassis, using proprietary algorithms to identify tire cavity noise characteristics at around 200 Hz. Inverse cancellation signals are then generated and output via the CDC damping system valves through the cubiX vehicle motion control software, achieving noise reduction through subtle damper movements without compromising damping performance.

3.Mercedes-Benz Announces Design Leadership Change, Boudi to Assume Role of Chief Design Officer in 2026

On December 17, Mercedes-Benz Group officially announced a management change, confirming that Chief Design Officer Gorden Wagener will step down on January 31, 2026, with AMG Chief Design Officer Boudi set to take over the role effective February 1, 2026. Boudi has been with Mercedes-Benz’s design division since 2010, holding multiple key positions and currently overseeing the design of the entire AMG product lineup, having created several iconic concept cars. Mercedes-Benz hopes to leverage his extensive experience to usher in a new chapter for the brand’s design language.

4.Tesla Cybercab Spotted in Austin Road Tests, Featuring No Pedals and Full-Version FSD

Recently, media outlets released road test photos of the Tesla Cybercab in downtown Austin, Texas. Designed specifically for autonomous ride-hailing services, the vehicle features only two seats and completely eliminates the steering wheel as well as the accelerator and brake pedals. As the launch city for Tesla’s Robotaxi shared mobility service, Austin currently relies primarily on the new Model Y equipped with customized FSD 14 Unsupervised software to provide the service.

It is understood that Elon Musk previously revealed that in 2026, Tesla plans to integrate privately owned vehicles together with Cybercab into the Robotaxi platform, with the Cybercab equipped with Tesla’s full-version FSD autonomous driving technology. In addition, the Cybercab adopts integrated concept seats with segmented backrest and cushion designs, along with a retractable central armrest and a centrally mounted display screen. In terms of power, the vehicle features no physical charging port and is highly likely to adopt wireless inductive charging, while also supporting robotic arms for automatic interior cleaning.

5.Great Wall Motor’s Sixth Brand to Debut, New Model Adopts Classic Retro Hood Emblem Design

Recently, Li Fei, Chief Engineer of Steer-by-Wire Chassis at Great Wall Motor, shared a set of new vehicle images on social media, hinting that “Great Wall’s sixth brand is coming,” which quickly drew widespread attention. Judging from the images, the design style of this new model is distinctly different from Great Wall Motor’s existing five major brands. It is neither aligned with Haval’s mass-market SUV positioning nor Tank’s hardcore off-road style, and it also differs from WEY’s tech-luxury orientation, ORA’s trendy electric appeal, and GWM Pickup’s pickup truck character, clearly indicating an entirely new product lineup.

Although only limited details have been revealed so far, it is evident that the new model adopts a classic vintage car design inspired by overseas models, featuring a large vertical waterfall grille, rounded headlights, and a highly distinctive rear design. Notably, the conventional badge position has been replaced by a long lettered emblem, while the front fascia is fitted with a prominent upright hood ornament. Li Fei stated that the vehicle’s overall silhouette forms a stark contrast with existing brands and is not merely a simple extension of the current product lines.

6.Leapmotor D19 Interior Design Revealed, Launch Scheduled for H1 2026 with Blind Pre-Orders Open

Leapmotor recently released the interior design images of the Leapmotor D19, the first model based on its D platform. The new vehicle features a dual-layer wraparound cockpit combined with an ultra-elliptical digital curved surface design, delivering a strong sense of technology throughout. Blind pre-orders officially opened on November 1, with consumers able to secure priority production scheduling, limited-edition founder-signed scale models (limited to 2,000 units), priority access to subsequent events, and exclusive services by paying a RMB 999 intention deposit.

According to available information, the Leapmotor D19 is scheduled for official launch and delivery in the first half of 2026. Its interior specifications are particularly impressive, featuring a 60-inch AR-HUD, Nappa full-grain leather upholstery, and 120-degree posture zero-gravity seats. In terms of intelligent systems, the vehicle is the world’s first to be equipped with dual Qualcomm Snapdragon 8797 chips delivering 1,280 TOPS of computing power, along with an integrated cockpit-and-driving central domain controller and the VLA driver assistance system. On the safety front, the body incorporates 2 GPa ultra-high-strength steel in 16 key areas, delivering comprehensive protection performance.

7.smart #6 EHD Super Hybrid Revealed, Offering Up to 234 km of Pure Electric Range

Recent reports indicate that smart’s all-new midsize sedan, the #6 EHD, will be offered in two configuration variants, delivering pure electric ranges of 110 km and 234 km, respectively. These correspond to battery packs of 20 kWh and 41.46 kWh, fully meeting the varying power demands of urban commuting and short-distance travel.The vehicle is equipped with a plug-in hybrid system featuring a 1.5T turbocharged engine with a maximum output of 120 kW, delivering smooth and efficient power performance. Its dimensions measure 4,906 / 1,922 / 1,508 mm, with a long wheelbase of 2,926 mm, providing ample rear-seat legroom and a high level of ride comfort.

In terms of exterior design, the new model follows the latest new energy vehicle trends with a closed front fascia. The headlights and central trim strip are finished in a smoked treatment, creating a continuous visual effect with high recognizability when illuminated at night. Notably, the vehicle is also equipped with lidar to provide precise perception support for advanced driver assistance systems, while hidden door handles are adopted to reduce aerodynamic drag and enhance overall refinement, striking a balance between technology and practicality.

8.Buick Zhijing Shijia Pure Electric Version to Launch in H1 2026, Offering Dual Range Options

Buick officially revealed during the first user Q&A session for the Zhijing Shijia that the pure electric version of this popular model is expected to be officially launched in the first half of 2026, while deliveries of the currently available Premium Edition are scheduled to begin in February 2026, meeting consumer expectations for different powertrain options.The pure electric version maintains overall design consistency with the plug-in hybrid variant currently on sale, retaining Buick’s highly recognizable family design language. The core differences lie in the powertrain, with front and rear dual motors delivering maximum outputs of 332 kW and 150 kW, respectively. Two pure electric range options of 601 km and 632 km are offered, easily covering daily commuting and intercity travel needs.

In addition, the Zhijing Shijia lineup will be fully equipped with Buick’s new “Xiaoyao Intelligent Driving” advanced driver assistance system. Leveraging the algorithmic strengths and reinforcement learning capabilities of the Momenta R6 flywheel foundation model, together with redundant support from multiple sensors including lidar, the system enables industry-leading “seamless” urban NOA and full-scenario parking assistance functions, delivering a more relaxed and safer driving experience in both congested traffic and complex parking environments.

9.Tesla Cybercab Begins Crash Testing, Only 130 Days Away from Mass Production

Recently, the latest developments of the Tesla Cybercab surfaced online, showing more than a dozen prototype vehicles undergoing intensive crash testing. Some vehicles have already sustained visible damage, with one vehicle’s airbags fully deployed. These scenes indicate that mass-production validation for this steering-wheel-free autonomous taxi has entered a critical stage, with its safety performance undergoing rigorous testing.According to the plan, Cybercab will begin mass production at the Texas Gigafactory in 130 days (i.e., in the second quarter of 2026). Positioned as a “low-cost mobility solution,” the two-seat model is expected to be priced below USD 30,000 (approximately RMB 211,100), with operating costs as low as USD 0.20 per mile (approximately RMB 0.87 per kilometer), significantly reducing urban mobility costs.

Elon Musk has previously emphasized that the deployment of Cybercab will “usher in a new era of human–machine coexisting transportation.” The smooth progress of crash testing is undoubtedly accelerating the realization of this vision. Tesla is currently pushing forward regulatory approval for steering-wheel-free vehicles, and industry observers widely believe that if Cybercab successfully passes safety validation and regulatory clearance, it could become the world’s first autonomous taxi to achieve large-scale mass production, reshaping the intelligent mobility landscape and setting a solid safety benchmark for the industry.

10.BYD Officially Enters the Iraqi Market, Eight Models Debut Alongside BYD SHARK 6

Recently, BYD held a grand launch event in Baghdad, officially announcing its entry into the Iraqi market, with the plug-in hybrid pickup BYD SHARK 6 making its local debut at the same time. A total of eight models were introduced, including four plug-in hybrid vehicles and four pure electric vehicles, catering to diverse market needs.BYD will also establish a comprehensive vehicle usage ecosystem in Iraq, with after-sales service centers set to open progressively to provide professional services such as maintenance, repairs, and technical support. This move further deepens BYD’s presence in the Middle East and Africa, supporting the local transition toward cleaner and smarter mobility.

11.Li Auto Enters Three Countries, Completing Its Core Market Layout Across Central Asia and Africa

On December 17, Li Auto officially announced its entry into Egypt, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan. Following its expansion into Uzbekistan, the company has now completed a core market layout spanning Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Africa, marking a substantive step forward in its global expansion.The overseas launch simultaneously introduced three flagship models—the L9, L7, and L6—and will provide international customers with official warranties, professional after-sales services, and OTA upgrade support to ensure a consistent user experience. Wu Zuomin, head of international business, stated that Li Auto will continue to deliver high-quality experiences through localized partnerships.

12.Geely Opens Its First Showroom in Greece, with More Intelligent EV Models to Follow

Geely Automobile’s first brand showroom in Greece was officially inaugurated in Athens recently, marking a new phase in the company’s development in the local market.Centered around the concept of “Smart Mobility for All,” the showroom has been designed as a modern space integrating brand culture displays, interactive vehicle experiences, and personalized services. Consumers can not only experience intelligent technologies such as driver assistance systems in depth, but also receive professional, tailored service support.

During the opening period, Geely simultaneously launched a week-long “Geely Welcome Days” vehicle purchase campaign, further strengthening engagement with local customers.At present, Geely has introduced the Geely International EX5 to the Greek market, with sales steadily increasing since its launch. Looking ahead, Geely plans to further expand its sales and service network across major Greek cities and gradually introduce more intelligent electric vehicle models, offering local consumers green, smart, and high-quality mobility solutions.

13.SAIC MG Surpasses 300,000 Units in European Sales in 2025, Retaining Its 11-Year Title as Top-Selling Chinese Brand

According to official information from SAIC Motor, SAIC MG’s sales in the European market surpassed 300,000 units in 2025, representing a year-on-year increase of nearly 30%, and securing its position as the top-selling Chinese automotive brand in Europe for the 11th consecutive year.Reviewing its sales trajectory, SAIC MG exceeded 50,000 units in Europe in 2021; in 2022, Europe became its first overseas regional market to surpass the 100,000-unit level; and in 2023, sales further broke through the 200,000-unit mark, demonstrating strong growth momentum.

Performance in segmented markets was particularly notable: in 2025, the MG Hybrid+ family achieved sales of 137,000 units, surging 300% year-on-year, while the pure electric lineup sold 46,000 units. Despite facing the severe challenge of anti-subsidy tariffs, its market influence continued to grow steadily.To date, SAIC MG’s cumulative historical sales in Italy, Spain, and France have each exceeded 100,000 units, while cumulative sales in the UK have reached 370,000 units, including more than 100,000 pure electric vehicles.In the first half of this year, SAIC Motor released its Overseas Strategy 3.0, the “Glocal Strategy,” under which it will introduce 17 all-new overseas models equipped with a new HEV hybrid system and implement disruptive technologies such as solid-state batteries.

14.BYD Signs Agreement with Deutsche Bahn for 200 Electric Buses to Support Green Mobility

Recently, BYD officially signed a framework agreement with Deutsche Bahn (DB), Germany’s largest public transport operator, for the supply of 200 pure electric buses.This marks another major recognition from high-end international markets following BYD’s acquisition of significant overseas orders, including 210 units in Singapore (Asia-Pacific), 268 units in Belgium (Europe), and 194 units in Brazil (the Americas). As a powerhouse of the global automotive industry with world-leading technical standards and environmental requirements in transportation, Germany’s partnership further highlights BYD’s strong capabilities.

The two parties already share a solid foundation of cooperation. Previously delivered 54 BYD electric buses have been operating stably for an extended period in Frankfurt, Schleswig-Holstein, and other regions, earning widespread praise from operators and local residents thanks to their long range, high passenger capacity, and low total cost of ownership.The four models included in this agreement—B12.b, B12.b LE, B13.b, and B15—can flexibly adapt to a wide range of operational scenarios, from urban commuting and short-distance shuttles to intercity passenger transport. Among them, the new-generation models are equipped with BYD’s self-developed Blade Battery and CTC (Cell-to-Chassis) integration technology, significantly enhancing safety, energy efficiency, and durability while further optimizing interior passenger space.

15.Seres E5 Plus Enters the Egyptian Market, Global Service Network Surpasses 1,000 Locations

Kang Bo, Vice President of Seres Group, shared major news via Weibo, announcing that the group’s overseas brand DFSK recently held a grand new product launch event near the iconic Pyramid of Khufu in Cairo. The event marked the official entry of the strategic E5 Plus model, along with two additional new products, into the Egyptian market, with the unique venue drawing significant public attention.This represents a significant milestone for DFSK after 20 years of deep cultivation in overseas markets, marking its comprehensive transition toward new energy and intelligent mobility, and carrying important implications for its expansion across the Middle East and Africa.

To date, DFSK’s products have reached more than 70 countries and regions worldwide, with its global sales and service network successfully surpassing 1,000 locations, providing users with convenient vehicle purchasing and after-sales experiences through a well-established channel layout.The entry of the E5 Plus into the Egyptian market not only enriches DFSK’s overseas product portfolio, but also further broadens its global path toward new energy and intelligent transformation, with the potential to offer local consumers more technologically advanced green mobility options in the future.

Sentauto Editor’s Note:

This week, automakers appeared to hit the “sprint button,” rolling out fresh moves across multiple fronts in a dazzling display. Chinese brands stood out as the true driving force behind global expansion: BYD not only showcased its domestic strength by achieving the fastest one-million-unit milestone in China’s A0-segment sedan market with the Dolphin, but also continued its overseas push at full speed—entering Iraq with eight models including the BYD SHARK 6 and partnering with Deutsche Bahn to deliver 200 electric buses, demonstrating strong performance both at home and abroad. Li Auto entered three countries in one move to complete its core Central Asia–Africa market footprint, Geely opened its first showroom in Greece with plans to introduce more intelligent EVs, and SAIC MG delivered an even more impressive performance by surpassing 300,000 units in European sales in 2025 and retaining its title as the top-selling Chinese brand for 11 consecutive years, underscoring the growing global influence of Chinese automakers.

There were also plenty of highlights on the new model and technology fronts. The Leapmotor D19 revealed its interior and opened blind pre-orders ahead of its H1 2026 launch; the pure electric Buick Zhijing Shijia confirmed dual range options; the smart #6 EHD super hybrid delivered an impressive 234 km pure electric range; and Great Wall Motor’s sixth brand is gearing up with a retro hood emblem design, clearly targeting diverse consumer preferences. On the technology side, ZF introduced an active chassis noise cancellation software solution that requires no additional hardware, precisely addressing tire noise issues and signaling the industry’s push toward “software-driven experience optimization.” Tesla’s Cybercab has taken an even more aggressive approach—rapidly entering crash testing following road test exposure and sitting just 130 days away from mass production, with its pedal-free configuration and full-version FSD generating strong anticipation for its production performance.

In addition, Mercedes-Benz announced that Boudi will assume the role of Chief Design Officer in 2026, signaling fresh moves on the design front, while the Seres E5 Plus entered the Egyptian market with its global service network surpassing 1,000 locations—highlighting that automakers are aiming not only to “sell good cars,” but also to “deliver strong services.” Overall, whether it is the accelerating global expansion of Chinese brands, the intensive rollout of new models, or breakthroughs in technology, all signs point to an increasingly clear trajectory for the automotive industry centered on electrification, intelligence, and globalization. While competition among automakers remains fierce, the ultimate beneficiaries are consumers.