Sentauto International Auto News Weekly Highlights
·Huawei Qiankun Intelligent Driving 2.0 Breaks New Ground, Supporting Over One Million Parking Facilities with More Than 30 Million Cumulative Uses
·Yangwang U9 Introduces “Extreme Forest” Commemorative Color, Honoring Nürburgring Record with Optional Pricing Starting at RMB 50,000
·Jaguar’s Final Internal Combustion Model F-Pace Rolls Off the Line, Marking the End of a 90-Year ICE Era and the Beginning of Electrification
·Leapmotor D99 Officially Unveiled, Featuring Range-Extended and Pure Electric Powertrains with Smart Cockpit Integration
·BYD DENZA Delivers 20,000 Vehicles in Hong Kong, DENZA D9 Leads the MPV Segment
·Dreame “Starlight Program” Teases First Supercar, Set for Global Debut at CES 2026
·ZDrive Assisted Driving Mass-Production Models to Exceed 80, Heavy-Duty Truck NOA to Enter Mass Production in the First Half of 2026
·Tesla’s 9 Millionth Electric Vehicle Rolls Off the Line, Shanghai Gigafactory Becomes a Core Pillar
·Spy Photos of Fangchengbao’s First Sedan Exposed, “Magnesium 9” to Feature Huawei Advanced Intelligent Driving

1、Huawei Qiankun Intelligent Driving 2.0 Breaks New Ground, Supporting Over One Million Parking Facilities with More Than 30 Million Cumulative Uses
On December 25, Huawei Qiankun Intelligent Automotive Solutions officially announced via its social media channel that its “Parking-to-Parking 2.0” intelligent driving function has achieved two major milestones: nationwide supported parking facilities have exceeded one million, while cumulative usage has surged beyond 30 million Behind this achievement lies continuous technological iteration and strong market recognition. In November, partner brands adopting this solution recorded sales exceeding 180,000 units, representing a month-on-month increase of 80%. At present, 34 mass-production models from 14 mainstream automakers are equipped with Huawei Qiankun Intelligent Driving or HarmonyOS Smart Cockpit solutions, covering a broad market range from compact vehicles to mid- and high-end models.

By the end of October 2025, Huawei Qiankun Intelligent Driving also delivered impressive core metrics: cumulative assisted driving mileage reached 5.81 billion kilometers, parking-to-parking services exceeded 20 million times, assisted parking operations surpassed 350 million, and the monthly active assisted-driving user ratio climbed to a high of 95.2%, clearly demonstrating strong user recognition of its reliability and convenience.At present, multiple models equipped with this intelligent driving system have begun high-speed L3 autonomous driving pilot tests in core cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, with plans to gradually expand to more cities and further enhance the driving experience.
2、Yangwang U9 Introduces “Extreme Forest” Commemorative Color, Honoring Nürburgring Record with Optional Pricing Starting at RMB 50,000
Yangwang officially unveiled the exclusive U9 commemorative color “Extreme Forest,” a new finish created specifically to honor the epic achievement of the Yangwang U9 Xtreme in setting a new electric vehicle record at the Nürburgring Nordschleife.The exterior option is priced at RMB 50,000, while the interior option costs RMB 30,000. Its design inspiration comes from the breathtaking scene of forests on both sides of the Nürburgring — known as the “Green Hell” — transforming into flowing green backdrops as the U9 Xtreme charged through the circuit at extreme speed, seamlessly blending velocity with the beauty of nature.

This paint finish employs a four-layer precision coating process combined with specially formulated mica pigments. Through a fully controlled workflow — including primer reinforcement, precise base color calibration, pearl layer enhancement, and clear coat color protection — and the integration of multi-layer pearlescent materials with nano-optical particles, it delivers a highly textured dynamic spectral response, presenting rich color variations under different lighting angles.Currently, the standard Yangwang U9 is offered in three classic colors including Lunar Silver and Argyle Purple, while the globally limited 30-unit U9 Xtreme sold out rapidly upon launch. The introduction of the “Extreme Forest” commemorative color not only enriches the product lineup but also provides a new option for consumers seeking personalization and symbolic value, further strengthening its competitiveness in the high-end supercar segment.
3、Jaguar’s Final Internal Combustion Model F-Pace Rolls Off the Line, Marking the End of a 90-Year ICE Era and the Beginning of Electrification
Recently, Jaguar’s Solihull plant in the UK witnessed a historic moment as the final black Jaguar F-Pace SVR completed all assembly processes and slowly rolled off the production line, marking the official conclusion of the brand’s 90-year internal combustion engine era.As the finale of the ICE era, the F-Pace SVR carries profound brand significance: its 5.0-liter V8 engine delivers a highly distinctive exhaust note, regarded by many enthusiasts as the “final echo” of the combustion era; meanwhile, the classic black paint subtly pays tribute to the final Jaguar E-Type, which once marked the end of the brand’s iconic sports car era, creating an emotional connection spanning decades.

The conclusion of the ICE era also signals Jaguar’s full entry into a new phase of electrification, a transition that is far from smooth and faces multiple challenges including technology development and supply chain construction.According to reports, Jaguar’s first all-electric model will be based on the Type 00 concept car and positioned as a luxury electric GT. Originally scheduled to debut in 2025, its release has now been postponed to 2026, with the exact market launch date yet to be confirmed.For Jaguar, a brand with deep roots in internal combustion engineering, electrification represents both a challenge and an opportunity, with global enthusiasts eagerly anticipating whether it can carry forward its classic DNA into the new energy era.
4、Leapmotor D99 Officially Unveiled, Featuring Range-Extended and Pure Electric Powertrains with Smart Cockpit Integration
On December 28, Leapmotor officially unveiled its all-new MPV model D99, featuring a bullet-shaped design that delivers a clean and imposing visual presence while optimizing aerodynamic performance to enhance driving range. The new model is offered with both range-extended and pure electric powertrain options to meet diverse mobility needs.The range-extended version debuts a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system paired with an 80.3 kWh battery pack, delivering anxiety-free range performance. The pure electric variant features a full-stack 1000V electrical architecture and is equipped with a 115 kWh CATL super hybrid battery cell, offering industry-leading charging efficiency and driving range.

The vehicle comes standard with megapixel-level DLP projection headlights, delivering wide illumination coverage and high clarity for enhanced nighttime driving safety. Five trendy exterior color options, including Photoelectric White and Liquid Silver, are also available to suit different aesthetic preferences.A 1.46-square-meter panoramic sunroof blocks 99.9% of ultraviolet rays, allowing passengers to enjoy an open view while remaining protected from sunlight. Meanwhile, the ISD intelligent interactive taillight panel enhances communication with surrounding traffic.In terms of intelligence, the D99 pioneers an integrated cockpit-and-driving central domain controller, featuring an on-device large-model cockpit system and dual 8797 chips. With ultra-high computing power of 1280 TOPS combined with VLA large-model assisted driving, it delivers convenient and safe intelligent experiences for both daily commuting and long-distance travel.
5、BYD DENZA Delivers 20,000 Vehicles in Hong Kong, DENZA D9 Leads the MPV Segment
BYD and DENZA have reached a significant milestone in the Hong Kong market with the successful delivery of their 20,000th new energy vehicle. TVB Best Actor Moses Chan and his wife Aimee Chan became owners of a DENZA model, sharing on-site their reasons for choosing the brand and praising its balance of environmental friendliness and premium quality. As a benchmark model in the new energy MPV segment, the DENZA D9 continues to lead the market with strong product competitiveness. Data shows that from January to November 2025, cumulative sales reached 84,549 units, securing the top position in China’s MPV market. In just three years, it became the world’s first new energy MPV to surpass 300,000 units in cumulative sales, setting a new industry growth record.

In overseas markets, the DENZA D9 has topped luxury MPV sales charts in multiple countries including Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia in the first half of 2025, thanks to its comfortable cabin space, advanced intelligent features, and reliable quality. In Singapore, the starting price is approximately RMB 1.606 million, significantly higher than the Toyota Alphard, successfully breaking the long-standing dominance of joint-venture brands and demonstrating the strength of China’s high-end manufacturing.In mainland China, DENZA has launched the “DENZA D9 · Gratitude for 300,000+” year-end appreciation campaign. From now until December 31, customers who purchase and take delivery of a DENZA D9 will receive complimentary compulsory traffic insurance. The benefit applies to the entire DENZA D9 lineup, with subsidies capped at 4,000 units, allowing users to save several thousand yuan directly. Eligibility will be determined based on the order of sales reporting, on a first-come, first-served basis.
6、Dreame “Starlight Program” Teases First Supercar, Set for Global Debut at CES 2026
Dreame Auto’s Starlight Program brand recently released teaser images of its first model. As Dreame’s inaugural attempt in the high-end new energy supercar segment, this supercar is scheduled to make its official debut at the CES Consumer Electronics Show in January 2026. With its avant-garde design and hardcore technologies, it has already attracted global attention from automotive enthusiasts. The model is reportedly planned for market launch in 2027 and is expected to fill the brand’s gap in the supercar niche.

Based on the teaser images, the new car features long, flowing body lines and an aggressive aerodynamic rear wing, delivering a strong sense of sportiness and a highly aggressive visual presence.It is equipped with multi-spoke aluminum alloy wheels that combine stylish design with reduced unsprung weight, while yellow front brake calipers paired with drilled brake discs are both visually striking and effective in enhancing braking performance.The LED matrix taillights deliver high brightness and strong visual recognition, and when combined with a large rear spoiler, further optimize aerodynamic performance. The rear bumper integrates a finely engineered dual-layer diffuser that effectively enhances ground effect, significantly increasing rear-axle downforce to provide greater stability at high speeds, showcasing the hardcore capabilities of a true supercar.
7、ZDrive Assisted Driving Mass-Production Models to Exceed 80, Heavy-Duty Truck NOA to Enter Mass Production in the First Half of 2026
At the ZDrive Brand Festival 2025 held on December 30, CEO Shen Shaojie announced multiple major updates: the number of assisted-driving mass-production models under ZDrive is set to exceed 80, with 50 popular models already in production and more than 30 additional models currently in final calibration stages and soon to be launched. In the passenger vehicle segment, ZDrive’s partnership network now covers nine core automakers including Volkswagen, BYD, Great Wall Motor, and Audi, spanning 15 mainstream brands and covering the full price range from economy to luxury models, with market penetration continuing to rise.

ZDrive has also specifically launched a highway NOA project for heavy-duty trucks, partnering with leading commercial vehicle manufacturers XCMG, Shaanxi Automobile, and Sinotruk. Mass production is expected in the first half of 2026, with the technology aimed at significantly alleviating long-distance driving fatigue for truck drivers and greatly improving safety and efficiency in trunk-line logistics.At the same time, ZDrive continues to strengthen its R&D efforts, successfully overcoming multiple industry challenges and becoming the first to commercialize a mid-computing-power vision-based L2+ assisted driving solution, meeting market demand with high cost-effectiveness. The mass production of the world’s first Qualcomm 8775 integrated cockpit-and-driving solution has made it possible for a single chip to power both intelligent cockpit functions and assisted driving, accelerating upgrades to vehicle electronic and electrical architectures and breaking the long-held industry belief that internal combustion vehicles cannot achieve advanced assisted driving.
8、Tesla’s 9 Millionth Electric Vehicle Rolls Off the Line, Shanghai Gigafactory Becomes a Core Pillar
On December 30, Tesla marked a historic moment as its 9 millionth electric vehicle rolled off the production line at the Shanghai Gigafactory, with the milestone model being the highly popular Model Y. Earlier this month on December 8, locally produced Tesla vehicles also reached the milestone of 4 million units, with the jump from 3 million to 4 million achieved in less than 14 months, highlighting the remarkable speed and strength of China’s intelligent manufacturing capabilities.

As one of Tesla’s most important global production and export hubs, the Shanghai Gigafactory has contributed nearly half of Tesla’s global EV deliveries over the past six years, with a localization rate exceeding 95%. Supported by highly automated production lines, the facility achieves an efficient output of one complete vehicle rolling off the line approximately every 30 seconds.According to the latest sales forecast data released by the China Passenger Car Association, Tesla China delivered 86,700 vehicles in November, representing a year-on-year increase of 10% and a 40% month-on-month rise compared with October. Despite intensifying market competition, Tesla continues to maintain strong growth momentum, with its product strength and market strategy gaining broad consumer recognition.
9、Spy Photos of Fangchengbao’s First Sedan Exposed, “Magnesium 9” to Feature Huawei Advanced Intelligent Driving
Recently, a set of test spy photos of Fangchengbao’s first sedan has surfaced online. The new model is reportedly to be officially named “Magnesium 9” and is scheduled for release in 2026. This marks Fangchengbao’s first foray into the sedan segment following its Leopard Series and Titanium Series off-road models, drawing widespread attention across the industry.Unlike the rugged off-road styling of the brand’s existing models, the “Magnesium 9” adopts a low-slung, wide-body sporty design language. A closed front fascia is paired with oval LED headlamp units, while the sporty lower air intake meets cooling requirements and optimizes aerodynamic performance. The side profile features smooth, flowing lines, giving the vehicle a highly striking visual presence.

The spy photos clearly show a LiDAR module mounted on the roof. Given Fangchengbao’s established deep cooperation with Huawei in the intelligent driving domain, industry observers widely speculate that the “Magnesium 9” will be equipped with Huawei Qiankun Advanced Intelligent Driving. The system is known for its mature performance in highway navigation, urban adaptive following, and obstacle avoidance in complex scenarios, potentially placing the new model among the leaders in its segment for intelligent driving capability.Although the rear section is heavily camouflaged, based on industry conventions and the vehicle’s positioning, it is highly likely to feature a full-width taillight design and an electrically adjustable rear spoiler. The spoiler is expected to automatically adjust its angle according to vehicle speed, further optimizing driving stability and energy efficiency.
10、JAC Group Opens Italian Subsidiary, Fully Launching Localized Operations in Europe
Recently, JAC Group held a grand opening ceremony for its Italian subsidiary in Turin, a major hub of the automotive industry. With the ribbon-cutting ceremony completed, JAC Group officially launched its localized operations in the European market, marking a crucial new stage in the company’s internationalization strategy.The decision to establish a subsidiary in Turin was driven not only by the city’s well-developed automotive industry ecosystem and favorable business environment, but also reflects JAC Group’s strong confidence in the immense growth potential of the European market and the broad prospects for international industrial cooperation, laying a solid foundation for deeper market penetration in Europe.

The establishment of the Italian subsidiary represents both a key milestone in JAC Group’s global expansion and a vivid example of deepening cooperation between China and Italy in high-end manufacturing and green mobility, receiving strong support from local governments and industry partners.Going forward, JAC Group will remain user-oriented and deeply integrate into the local European market ecosystem. Leveraging the strong product competitiveness of its new energy vehicle lineup and a reliable after-sales service system, the company aims to continuously earn the trust of local consumers, while using Turin as a strategic hub to expand across key markets in Western and Southern Europe, working with local partners to build a sustainable smart mobility ecosystem.
11、Uber Partners with Baidu to Launch Autonomous Robotaxi Pilot Operations in the UK in 2026
Recent reports indicate that global mobility platform Uber Technologies will enter into a deep partnership with Chinese technology company Baidu to jointly conduct autonomous robotaxi pilot operations in the United Kingdom. This move follows a similar path taken by U.S. autonomous driving technology company Waymo, which officially launched a comparable testing program in London earlier this month, drawing widespread industry attention.Uber has officially stated that it plans to launch a pilot program in London in the first half of 2026 using Baidu’s Apollo Go RT6 autonomous taxis, with operational strategies to be refined based on testing outcomes.

With its mature autonomous driving technology and high-safety system architecture, Baidu’s Apollo Go RT6 has accumulated extensive operational experience across multiple markets, and its collaboration with Uber to enter the UK market is expected to accelerate the development of the local smart mobility sector.Uber also revealed that once the pilot program begins, it will focus on testing vehicle adaptability and reliability in London’s complex road conditions, with plans to officially put the service into operation in London by the end of 2027, offering local users a more convenient and efficient intelligent mobility option while providing valuable practical experience for cross-regional deployment of autonomous driving technologies worldwide.
12、Changan’s Thailand Plant Ships First Batch of 500 Vehicles, Entering the European Market
Changan Automobile announced positive news from its Rayong plant in Thailand, as the first batch of 500 complete vehicles, including the Deepal S05, has officially been shipped to Europe. This significant move marks the entry of Changan’s globalization strategy into its 2.0 phase and adds new momentum to the presence of Chinese brands in the European high-end automotive market.As a key production base for Changan in Southeast Asia, the Rayong plant adopts advanced manufacturing processes and strict quality control systems to ensure that the quality of export vehicles matches that of domestically produced models.The plant officially commenced operations on May 16, when Changan’s 28.59-millionth vehicle rolled off the line—specifically the Deepal S05. With its well-balanced product strengths, reliable range performance, and intelligent features, the model has already gained recognition in multiple markets.

According to the plan, Changan will subsequently hold a brand launch event in Europe to fully demonstrate its technological strength and product matrix. Meanwhile, it will launch KD (Knock Down) projects in the CIS region including Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, establish a subsidiary in Brazil to deepen its presence in the Central and South American market, and fully introduce its three major brands – Changan, Shenlan, and Avita – to the Middle East and African (MEA) region, thereby building a global market network.
13、XPeng Enters Qatar and Mauritius, Accelerating Expansion Across the Middle East and Africa
XPeng Motors held a grand brand launch event in Doha, Qatar, officially entering this high-end Middle Eastern market. As a globally recognized premium mobility market, Qatar places high demands on the quality and intelligent features of new energy vehicles, and XPeng’s entry fills a gap in the local high-end intelligent NEV segment.At the event, the XPeng G9 and G6 made a joint appearance, attracting widespread attention from attendees with their leading XNGP intelligent assisted driving system, extended driving range, and premium interiors, while also previewing the upcoming launch of the P7+.

Wang Ke, General Manager of XPeng’s Middle East and Africa region, stated that Qatar serves as an important gateway for the brand to connect with global users and showcase its intelligent technologies, and that this strategic move will further strengthen XPeng’s position in the global premium market.Earlier on December 16, XPeng entered into a deep partnership with well-known Mauritian distributor Axess Limited. As a regional hub connecting Africa, Asia, and the Middle East with strong connectivity and market reach, Mauritius will serve as a base for the two parties to jointly establish comprehensive sales and after-sales service networks, leveraging its geographical advantages to cover East Africa and the Indian Ocean region and accelerate XPeng’s expansion across the Middle East and Africa.
14、Zeekr Deliveries in Malaysia Surpass 2,000 Units in One Year as Geely Completes Privatization
Zeekr has reported further success in overseas markets, achieving cumulative deliveries exceeding 2,000 units in Malaysia within just one year since officially entering the market in December 2024. This milestone not only validates the strength and recognition of Zeekr’s products in Southeast Asia, but also provides valuable experience for its expansion into additional international markets.During this period, Zeekr quickly adapted to local market needs by establishing localized sales channels and service networks, earning the favor of a growing number of consumers.

On December 22, Geely Automobile Holdings Limited announced that it had successfully completed the privatization and merger transaction of Zeekr Intelligent Technology Holding Limited, with Zeekr officially becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Geely Automobile and simultaneously delisting from the New York Stock Exchange.This integration will enable Geely Automobile to consolidate group resources, further strengthen Zeekr’s R&D investment and strategic positioning in electrification and intelligent technologies, and continuously enhance its competitiveness in the global new energy vehicle market, delivering higher-quality products and services to consumers.
15、GAC Hosts GAC Days Test Drive Event in Uruguay, Deepening Its Presence in South America with a Full Product Lineup
Recently, GAC successfully held the GAC Days brand test drive event in Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, showcasing a complete product lineup covering internal combustion, hybrid, and pure electric vehicles, including the classic GS8, hybrid models EMZOOM and EMKOO HEV, as well as popular pure electric models such as AION V, AION UT, AION ES, and HYPTEC HT.The lineup comprehensively addressed diverse mobility scenarios and consumer needs, demonstrating GAC’s strong capabilities in product development and manufacturing.

During the event, the AION UT, AION ES, and HYPTEC HT electric models became focal points of attention thanks to their impressive driving range, intelligent features, and comfortable cabin space.Through in-depth, face-to-face engagement with consumers and dynamic test drive experiences, GAC not only gathered a wealth of localized product optimization feedback, but also significantly strengthened its connection with local customers, enhancing brand visibility and reputation in the market.This event represents an important step in GAC’s deepening layout in the South American market. Going forward, the company will continue to advance product localization and service network development, further cultivating the region and providing more competitive mobility solutions for local consumers.
Sentauto Editor’s Note:
This week, the automotive industry resembled a high-stakes arena, with automakers pushing hard to showcase their strength and compete for market territory, making the trajectory of industry transformation increasingly clear. The farewell to the internal combustion engine era came swiftly and decisively, as Jaguar firmly rolled its final ICE model, the F-Pace, off the production line, bringing a 90-year combustion legacy to a close in the face of electrification; behind this is the industry’s pragmatic shift after recognizing long-term trends, especially as Tesla has already achieved the milestone of its 9 millionth electric vehicle rolling off the line globally, with the Shanghai Gigafactory serving as the core pillar underpinning its leadership in the EV race. On the new-model front, automakers are pursuing distinct strategies: Leapmotor positions the D99 precisely toward family users with dual powertrain options and a smart cockpit, Yangwang leverages the U9’s commemorative color to honor its Nürburgring record by combining emotional appeal with proven performance, while Dreame and Fangchengbao target new tracks such as supercars and sedans; in particular, Fangchengbao’s “Magnesium 9,” developed in partnership with Huawei’s advanced intelligent driving system, clearly aims to break into the market through a strategy of strong alliances. The overseas expansion battlefield is equally dynamic, with each company deploying its own approach: JAC and Changan head straight for Europe’s high-end stronghold, XPeng opens up a “new blue ocean” in the Middle East and Africa, Zeekr firmly establishes itself in Malaysia by surpassing 2,000 deliveries within a year, and BYD DENZA delivers 20,000 units in Hong Kong while leading the MPV segment, securing a key overseas foothold close to home; Chinese automakers are no longer making fragmented moves, but are instead expanding their global networks with clear strategies and measured pacing. In the intelligent driving arena, competition centers on real-world deployment and coverage: Huawei Qiankun Intelligent Driving 2.0 has exceeded 30 million cumulative uses, demonstrating strong user validation of its practicality; ZDrive is expanding mass production of passenger-vehicle assisted driving while simultaneously targeting new opportunities in commercial vehicle intelligence, planning to mass-produce heavy-duty truck NOA systems in 2026 as part of a dual-track strategy; and Uber and Baidu’s cross-border partnership to pilot autonomous robotaxi operations in the UK from 2026 highlights their confidence in the vast potential of overseas markets and an effort to secure an early foothold. It is increasingly evident that today’s automakers are no longer blindly following trends but are competing with clearly defined strategies: electrification is a hurdle that must be cleared, overseas expansion is territory that must be claimed, and intelligent driving is high ground that must be contested—mutually driving innovation and accelerating the automotive industry’s shift toward a smarter, more globalized future filled with momentum.