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Sentauto International Auto News Weekly Highlights

haotong
Global Auto News
2026-02-05 12:46:38

·BYD Unveils New Sub-Brand Linghui, Unlocking a New Experience of Effortless Mobility Through Technological Innovation

·Avatr New Shooting Brake Spy Photos Leak, Equipped with Advanced Intelligent Driving and Harmony Cockpit, Set for Launch Within the Year

·BMW Greater China Leadership Change: Christian Ach to Assume Role as President and CEO in April

·AITO M6 Official Images Released, Youthful Design Completes Family Product Matrix

·Quanzhou and CATL Join Forces to Build Intelligent Zero-Carbon Battery Factory, Boosting Industry Upgrade

·All-New Lexus ES to Launch in April, Shanghai Plant to Be Completed in the Second Half of the Year

·All-New Audi RS 5 Teaser Revealed! 2.9T Plug-in Hybrid + 100 km Pure Electric Range, Official Launch on February 19

·WEY V9X Teaser Images Released! First Model on Guiyuan S Platform, AI Luxury Six-Seater to Debut

·Bosch 2025 Financial Report Released! China Market Sales Reach RMB 149.8 Billion, Up 4.9% Year-on-Year

Sentauto International Auto News Weekly Highlights

BYD Unveils New Sub-Brand Linghui, Unlocking a New Experience of Effortless Mobility Through Technological Innovation

Amid the ongoing advancement of the national "dual carbon" goals and the mainstream trend toward green mobility, BYD has officially launched its new automotive brand, Linghui Automobile. Centered on technological innovation, this brand aims to redefine mobility scenarios, offering high-quality products that cover full-scenario usage needs. It responds to the call for green development while promoting the widespread adoption of new energy vehicles, enabling millions of hardworking individuals to effortlessly enjoy exceptional value in mobility.

Sentauto International Auto News Weekly Highlights

The name "Linghui" embodies the brand's original aspiration: "Ling" represents the courage to lead and pioneer industry transformation, while "Hui" signifies inclusiveness and a warm commitment to staying close to users' daily lives. Users can own a reliable mobility companion without bearing excessive financial burdens—whether navigating urban streets to feel the vibrancy of everyday life or cruising through mountains and rivers to enjoy scenic views, they can gather enriching experiences across meals and seasons, redirecting saved resources toward the pursuit of a better life. 

Avatr New Shooting Brake Spy Photos Leak, Equipped with Advanced Intelligent Driving and Harmony Cockpit, Set for Launch Within the Year

Recently, Avatr officially released a set of spy photos of its all-new shooting brake model, instantly drawing widespread attention in the automotive community. The vehicle continues Avatr's family design language, featuring LiDAR mounted above the windshield, electronic exterior mirrors, and semi-hidden door handles that combine practicality with a strong tech appeal. The full, rounded shooting brake rear造型 stands out as the biggest highlight of this reveal.

Sentauto International Auto News Weekly Highlights

Configuration and powertrain aspects are equally promising: the new model will be equipped with the Qiankun Intelligent Driving ADS 4 system and Harmony Cockpit 5, with power likely offered in both pure electric and extended-range variants. As testing progresses, more spy photos and detailed specifications are expected to emerge, with the vehicle anticipated to officially launch within this year. 

BMW Greater China Leadership Change: Christian Ach to Assume Role as President and CEO in April

BMW Group recently announced a senior leadership reshuffle in Greater China: effective April 1, 2026, Christian Ach will succeed Sean Gao as President and CEO of BMW Group Region China. Having led operations in China for over a decade, Gao's departure marks the formal end of his tenure in the region. Ach will take full responsibility for overseeing BMW's business in China and related joint ventures.

Sentauto International Auto News Weekly Highlights

Since joining BMW Group in 1998, Christian Ach has amassed extensive cross-market sales management experience, having previously led MINI's business in Germany and BMW sales in the German market, among other key roles. With a deep understanding of customer-centric business development and organizational transformation, his appointment is expected to bring fresh strategic perspectives to BMW's operations in Greater China. 

AITO M6 Official Images Released, Youthful Design Completes Family Product Matrix

On February 3, Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance officially released official images of the AITO M6. This new model precisely targets young consumers, emphasizing a trendy, tech-infused, and practical mobility experience. Its arrival further completes the product matrix of AITO M5, M7, M8, and M9, achieving full coverage from compact to large vehicles and meeting the needs of different age groups and usage scenarios.

Sentauto International Auto News Weekly Highlights

In terms of exterior, the new vehicle deeply inherits the family design language, featuring a closed grille paired with striking headlight clusters. The dedicated intelligent driving small blue light enhances the tech feel when illuminated, while extensive black accents (including window frames and front/rear bumper trims) impart a strong premium texture. The overall shape is clean and fluid, with semi-hidden door handles to reduce drag, dynamic five-spoke wheels paired with red brake calipers showcasing sporty genes, and star-sparkle taillight design echoing the headlights. The illuminated "AITO" logo integrated into the light group delivers strong brand recognition. Powertrain options are expected to include both pure electric and extended-range variants, both equipped with Harmony Cockpit 5 (supporting multi-screen interconnection and voice interaction) and Qiankun Intelligent Driving ADS 4 (covering high-level assisted driving across urban roads, highways, and multiple scenarios), delivering top-tier configuration performance. 

Quanzhou and CATL Join Forces to Build Intelligent Zero-Carbon Battery Factory, Boosting Industry Upgrade

Recently, the Quanzhou Municipal Government and CATL officially signed a cooperation agreement for a new energy battery production base project. The two parties will focus on core technology R&D and high-end manufacturing for new energy batteries, engaging in comprehensive and in-depth collaboration. The project will adopt advanced green manufacturing technologies, including energy-saving production processes and renewable energy power supply systems, to build an intelligent, zero-carbon modern factory. It will also improve upstream and downstream industry chain support for cathodes, anodes, electrolytes, etc., attracting clustered entry of related supporting enterprises, driving regional industrial synergy, and expanding the new energy industry ecosystem.

Sentauto International Auto News Weekly Highlights

This collaboration holds profound significance for both sides: it provides CATL with new capacity support to serve the global energy transition and expand its worldwide market share, while propelling Quanzhou to cultivate strategic emerging industries in new energy. It represents a key initiative for developing new quality productive forces in the opening year of the local "15th Five-Year Plan," expected to create thousands of jobs and enhance regional industrial value-added. Moving forward, CATL will focus on solid-state battery R&D, battery recycling technology innovation, and other core areas, partnering with Quanzhou to continuously drive high-quality development of the new energy industry and inject strong momentum into regional economic green transformation and the achievement of "dual carbon" goals. 

All-New Lexus ES to Launch in April, Shanghai Plant to Be Completed in the Second Half of the Year

Recent reports indicate that the all-new generation Lexus ES will officially launch in April, with its dedicated production base—the Lexus Shanghai Plant—scheduled for completion and commissioning in the second half of this year. This flagship new model is expected to receive its full public debut in 2027. The vehicle continues the family's signature smooth and dynamic silhouette; its low visual stance not only enhances aesthetics but also effectively reduces the drag coefficient to optimize driving efficiency. Body dimensions have been comprehensively upgraded over the previous generation, with length increased by 165 mm and wheelbase extended by 80 mm, resulting in significantly improved rear legroom and storage space.

Sentauto International Auto News Weekly Highlights

The cabin design adheres to the philosophy of “time is luxury,” integrating Lexus’s “art of capturing time” design ethos. The elegant pale green primary color palette draws inspiration from nature, creating a serene and comfortable driving and riding atmosphere. The center console features a dual connected-screen layout for the main infotainment and passenger display (both high-definition and supporting multi-task collaboration), while the central electronic shift lever boasts a refined shape with innovative yet highly practical design. Powertrain options include the ES 300h hybrid version, as well as the ES 350e and ES 500e pure electric variants. The pure electric models are built on the all-new GA-K platform (offering advantages in lightweight construction and high safety), equipped with large-capacity batteries. The ES 500e features the intelligent all-wheel-drive system DIRECT4, which allocates power in real time according to road conditions, enhancing driving stability and handling.

All-New Audi RS 5 Teaser Revealed! 2.9T Plug-in Hybrid + 100 km Pure Electric Range, Official Launch on February 19

Recently, Audi officially released teaser images of the all-new RS 5, which will be available in both sedan and Avant (wagon) variants. The powertrain features a 2.9T V6 engine combined with an electric motor in a plug-in hybrid system, delivering a combined maximum output of 600 hp and a pure electric range of up to 100 km. The model is scheduled for official unveiling on February 19.

Sentauto International Auto News Weekly Highlights

In terms of exterior, the new model adopts Audi’s latest family design language, featuring the signature hexagonal grille flanked by sizable air intakes, a roof spoiler, and a highly dynamic rear bumper. The tail is expected to feature a full-width OLED taillight design that supports programming and light animation interactions. Based on spy photos, the vehicle will also include extensive aerodynamic kits, with the exhaust layout most likely in a centered dual-oval configuration.

WEY V9X Teaser Images Released! First Model on Guiyuan S Platform, AI Luxury Six-Seater to Debut

Following the official announcement of its name, WEY has recently released additional teaser images of the V9X. As the first model built on the Guiyuan S platform, it is officially positioned as an “AI luxury six-seater flagship” and is highly likely to make its formal debut soon. The vehicle appears to have substantial dimensions, with reports suggesting a length exceeding 5.3 meters, firmly placing it in the large SUV category.

Sentauto International Auto News Weekly Highlights

The front face features an illuminated brand logo that, when lit, creates a continuous visual connection with the headlight clusters; vertical light strips are also present on both sides of the front bumper. Although it is a new energy SUV, it retains traditional-style door handles, while the horizontal roofline conveys a stable and composed stance. The rear features a full-width taillight design with integrated intelligent driving small blue lights on both sides, and LiDAR mounted forward on the roof, indicating high-level assisted driving capabilities. In the future, it will directly compete with other “9” series large new energy SUVs such as the Lynk & Co 900. 

Bosch 2025 Financial Report Released! China Market Sales Reach RMB 149.8 Billion, Up 4.9% Year-on-Year

Recently, Bosch Group released its 2025 financial report, with outstanding performance in the China market achieving sales of RMB 149.8 billion (approximately €18.46 billion), representing a 4.9% year-on-year increase. In 2025, Bosch China demonstrated exceptional business resilience. Amid the ongoing transformation and upgrading of China's automotive industry, key segments such as intelligent mobility have maintained solid market performance through technological innovation, localization capabilities, and other strengths.

Sentauto International Auto News Weekly Highlights

To maintain its competitive edge, Bosch continues to increase investment in China. The Nanchang light electric drive system production base and the new Jinan steering system plant are under construction as planned, strengthening core technologies in the mobility sector. The Wuxi global R&D center and Guangzhou high-end compressor manufacturing base are enhancing intelligence levels, supporting the transition of the HVAC industry toward smarter and greener development.

Dongfeng Motor Munich Design Center Opens, Completing the “Three Countries, Six Locations” Global R&D Network

Recently, the inauguration ceremony of Dongfeng Motor's Munich Styling Design Center was grandly held in Munich, Germany. This move marks the completion of a key European node in Dongfeng's “Three Countries, Six Locations” global design and R&D collaborative network. Choosing Munich not only demonstrates respect for automotive industrial design but also highlights Dongfeng's long-term vision for globalization, injecting new momentum into integrating top global resources and accelerating brand internationalization.

Sentauto International Auto News Weekly Highlights

This center represents an important step for Dongfeng in deepening its user- and scenario-oriented vehicle development system, enabling Dongfeng's design to directly connect with cutting-edge global design trends and aesthetic systems. Within the “Three Countries, Six Locations” framework, the Wuhan center oversees overall coordination, Shanghai Zero One focuses on youthful and trendy directions, while Munich leverages European design advantages to provide international creative support, further strengthening the global competitiveness of Dongfeng's design language.

GWM WEY G9 Hi4 PHEV Launched in Malaysia at 269,800 MYR with Multiple Benefits

Recently, GWM Malaysia officially launched the GWM WEY G9 Hi4 PHEV, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s new energy vehicle strategy in Malaysia. As the first locally assembled luxury plug-in hybrid MPV in the country, it not only confirms GWM’s long-term commitment to positioning Malaysia as a strategic production base but also establishes it as a regional export hub for the ASEAN market. The official selling price is set at 269,800 MYR.

Sentauto International Auto News Weekly Highlights

The official has prepared generous benefits for the first batch of owners: the first 1,000 customers will receive a second-row entertainment screen, along with a 5-year free connected services data package, a 5-year free maintenance package, and a complimentary home wall-mounted charging unit. In addition, the vehicle comes with a 6-year unlimited mileage warranty, while the hybrid powertrain is covered by an 8-year or 180,000 km warranty that includes the battery pack, drive motor, and other core components.

2026 Xpeng P7+ Begins Overseas Shipment with Upgraded Range and Configuration

Xpeng Motors officially announced that the 2026 Xpeng P7+ has begun full-scale overseas shipment. This upgraded model will focus on key markets in Europe, Southeast Asia, and beyond, further expanding Xpeng’s global brand influence. The exterior continues the family design language, featuring an integrated star-wing continuous light strip paired with an upper star-ring light for high nighttime recognizability, excellent far/near-beam headlight performance, and a dual-section AGS active grille that adjusts intake volume based on driving conditions to balance power output and fuel efficiency.

Sentauto International Auto News Weekly Highlights

Body dimensions are 5071/1937/1512 mm with a 3000 mm wheelbase, ensuring spacious interior room. Interior upgrades are abundant, including new soft purple and morning mist blue personalized color options to appeal to young trend-conscious users. An 8.8-inch instrument cluster combined with a 29-inch HUD reduces eye diversion while driving. Hidden air vents, 256-color star-cascade ambient lighting, and other features enhance the in-cabin experience, while suede-like wireless charging panels and ultra-fine velvet headliner add premium tactility. On the powertrain side, the extended-range version features a 1.5T range extender and 180 kW drive motor paired with a 49.2 kWh LFP battery, delivering 430 km pure electric range and 1550 km combined range; the pure electric version achieves 725 km range, making it effortless for both daily commuting and long-distance travel. 

NIO Enters Central Asia: NIO Space Tashkent Opens, Showcasing Multiple Models

Recently, the first national general agent store under NIO’s cooperation with prominent Uzbek automotive group ABU SAHIY MOTORS — NIO Space Tashkent — officially opened. This milestone event marks NIO’s formal entry into the highly promising Central Asian market and the beginning of a new chapter in its global layout. Located in Tashkent’s core commercial district, the spacious showroom displays multiple flagship models while offering one-stop services including consultation, test drives, and after-sales support, allowing local users to experience NIO’s products and services up close.

Sentauto International Auto News Weekly Highlights

NIO will launch multiple key models in the Central Asian market, including the flagship sedan ET9, mid-to-large SUV EL8 (ES8 in China), mid-size SUV EL6 (ES6 in China), mid-size sedan ET5 and ET5 Touring, as well as the mass-market-oriented Onvo L90 and L60. The Onvo series, with its high cost-performance ratio and adaptation to local road conditions, will serve as the main sales focus. ABU SAHIY MOTORS stated that, with NIO’s technical and resource support, it will accelerate the construction of local service networks and charging infrastructure, planning to add multiple service stations and charging piles within the year. NIO will continue to iterate on products and services to deliver innovative and sustainable mobility experiences for Central Asian users, jointly creating a better future of mobility. 

firefly Right-Hand-Drive Version Delivered in Singapore, Officially Launching in Southeast Asia

On February 2, firefly officially announced the delivery of its right-hand-drive models in Singapore, marking the official launch of its Southeast Asian market strategy. The right-hand-drive version arrived in Singapore on January 8, with orders opened simultaneously for the same-name model. Meanwhile, the brand continues to deepen its presence in Europe: after receiving positive feedback at the Brussels Motor Show, its first national general agent store opened in Budapest, Hungary, at the end of January.

Sentauto International Auto News Weekly Highlights

Moving forward, firefly plans to enter markets including Thailand and Costa Rica, steadily advancing its globalization. In February, it launched a 7-year ultra-low-interest financing plan with down payments starting at RMB 16,000 and monthly payments as low as RMB 840. At the same time, test-drive events are underway: visitors who test drive receive an exclusive artist Jordy co-branded red envelope set, and those who place an order receive a Year of the Horse Spring Festival surprise gift package. 

First Batch of Right-Hand-Drive Avatr 07 Rolls Off the Line! Immediately Shipped to Thailand, Accelerating Globalization

Recently, Avatr announced that the first batch of right-hand-drive Avatr 07 models has rolled off the production line in large scale at the Chongqing Smart Factory and has been immediately shipped to Thailand. The currently available 2026 Avatr 07 in the domestic market was launched on September 20 last year, priced between RMB 219,900 and RMB 279,900. According to the plan, five new models will be introduced in 2026, reaching a cumulative total of 17 models by 2030, covering multiple categories.

Sentauto International Auto News Weekly Highlights

Avatr has set clear targets: 400,000 global sales and annual revenue exceeding RMB 100 billion in 2027, 800,000 units by 2030, and aspiring to reach 1.5 million units by 2035. By 2030, the brand plans to enter more than 80 countries, establish over 700 channels, and has launched the “Intelligent Beauty Seven Stars” service program to fully accelerate its globalization process.

Weekly News Roundup:

The domestic (Chinese independent) camp is undoubtedly the most active contender. BYD has seized the moment to launch its new brand Linghui, targeting B-end (business/fleet) markets and untapped segments, relying on mature technology to carve out new positions in niche tracks. WEY V9X debuts as the first model on the Guiyuan S platform, positioning itself as an AI luxury six-seater flagship and competing in the premium segment with cutting-edge powertrain technology. AITO complements its family matrix with the youthful M6, addressing product gaps. At the same time, Chinese automakers are accelerating their globalization pace: NIO is taking root in Central Asia, Avatr is pushing into Thailand, firefly has landed in Singapore, and Xpeng P7+ has begun overseas shipments. Behind these right-hand-drive model deliveries lies the growing confidence of Chinese car companies on the global stage.

Luxury and joint-venture brands are also actively adjusting their strategies. BMW Greater China has undergone a leadership change, with Christian Ach set to take over, aiming to inject fresh vitality into the Chinese market. Lexus is preparing for the April launch of the all-new ES while simultaneously advancing construction of its Shanghai plant, which will be completed in the second half of the year to further deepen its roots in China. Audi RS 5 has teased its 2.9T plug-in hybrid powertrain, striking a balance between performance and new energy.

The supply chain and strategic layout sectors also offer plenty of highlights. Bosch achieved steady revenue growth in China in 2025, steadfastly maintaining its presence despite transformation pressures. CATL has partnered with Quanzhou to build a zero-carbon battery factory, laying a solid foundation for industry upgrading. Dongfeng has activated its Munich Design Center, completing its global R&D network and demonstrating strong globalization ambitions.

It is not difficult to see that the core of this competition lies in technological innovation and global layout. Chinese independent brands are breaking through via differentiation, foreign brands are adapting through strategic adjustments, and supply-chain enterprises are quietly supporting from behind—together painting a new picture of high-quality development for the automotive industry.

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2017 BMV X1 xDrive 20d xline

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