Index A-Z - Street
Aehra Afeela Aito AI-WAYS Aptera ARI Motors Arrival Avatr BeyonCa BYD Byton CANOO Ceer Cenntro Delorean Evergrande New Energy Auto Evum Motors Faraday Future Fisker GAC Aion Hozon Auto (Neta) Human Horizons Hycan IM Motors Ineos Automotive Izera Leapmotor Li Auto Lightyear Liux Lordstown Motors Lucid Motors Mullen Technologies Munro Vehicles Neta Auto NIO Olymp Cars Ora Polestar REE Automotive Rimac Automobili Rising Auto Rivian Automotive Seres Sono Motors Tesla Togg Auto Vinfast Voyah Xiaomi Xpeng Zeekr
Aehra is a BEV start-up startup from Italy that claims to combine Italian design, world-class engineering, and American customer service [1].
Aehra SUV
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of AEHRA Inc. [Homepage])
Aehra Limousine
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of AEHRA Inc. [Press Kit])
The first model is a premium SUV, the interior is reminiscent of the Mercedes EQS with its full-display cockpit and the Yoke steering wheel of Tesla’s Model S Plaid. The advised range is 800 km, the top speed is to be 265 km/h and the price is to be $160-180,000.
In 2023, the design of a premium sedan is also to be released, and both models are to be produced from 2025.
Sources
[1] https://www.aehra.com/ (Homepage, Access 27.09.2022, 13.09.2023)
[cs 27.09.2022, 13.09.2023]
Afeela is a new brand of the BEV joint-venture of Sony and Honda, which was founded in 2022 under the name Sony Honda Mobility Inc. The aim is to combine the respective competencies in the field of electronics and automotive engineering [1].
Sony wants to tap into the fast-growing market for automotive IT systems and, like Huawei, Xiaomi and Alibaba, is entering the automotive market via a joint venture.
Honda gets a partner for the electrification of its product range, where there is definitely a need to catch up.
Afeela – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Sony Honda Mobility Inc. [Gallery])
Afeela – Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Sony Honda Mobility Inc. [Homepage])
A first prototype – a four-door sedan with coupe-like lines – was presented at CES© in Las Vegas in January 2023. The prototype is said to have a total of 45 cameras and 800 tops of computing power (tera operations per second), with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Digital Chassis installed as the electronics hardware.
There is still no information about the powertrain components, such as the electric motor or the HV battery.
Sources
[1] https://www.shm-afeela.com/en/ (Homepage, Access 07.02.2023)
[cs 07.02.2023]
Aito is a new brand of the joint venture of Huawei and Seres, the company belongs to the BEV joint-ventures. The aim is to create synergies between the electronics group and the car company. Huawaei, like its American competitors – Qualcomm and Nvidia in hardware, Apple and Google in software – wants to open new markets in the automotive sector and place its products in the car [1].
Aito has been in production since March 2022 and has sold ~75,000 vehicles on the domestic market by the end of December [2].
Aito M5 EV – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Aito [Press Release])
Aito M5 EV – Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Aito [Press Release])
Aito’s 1st BEV model is a midsize SUV called M5 EV. The vehicle uses Huawei’s DriveONE drive platform and Huawei operating system [3], and Huawei’s Harmony OS3 operating system is used in the cockpit. The HV battery is supplied by CATL, which has a capacity of 80 kWh and uses LFP cells.
In the meantime, a 2nd model has been introduced, the M7, which has 3 rows of seats and is similar in size to a BMW X5 at ~5 m in length.
Sources
[1] https://aito.auto/ (Homepage, Access 08.02.2023)
[2] https://autonews.gasgoo.com/china_news/70021991.html (Access 03.06.2023)
[3] https://driveseres.com/ (Access 08.02.2022)
[cs 08.02.2023, 03.06.2023]
AI-WAYS is a BEV start-up from China founded in 2017 by Samuel Fu (President) and Gary Gu (CEO) in Shanghai. The company name is composed of the Chinese word for “love” (Chinese “Ai”) and the English word for “way” [1].
Compared to the better-known startups such as NIO and Xpeng, AI-WAYS sells significantly fewer vehicles. In November 2022, the company celebrated the production of the 10,000th U5 [2], this number of units is sold by Nio and Xpeng in one month.
AI-WAYS U5
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Aiways Automobile Europe GmbH [Galerien])
AI-WAYS U6
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Aiways Automobile Europe GmbH [Galerien])
The first model is the SUV U5 with 63 kWh battery and 400 km WLTP range [3], the second vehicle is the SUV Coupe U6.
AI-WAYS decided very early for export, among others also to Germany. The distribution runs via the AI-WAYS website (direct sales) and until recently also via the electronics retailer Euronics. The sales concept has not been very successful in Germany, with only ~1200 vehicles delivered by June 2022.
Cell supplier for the U5 is CATL [4], use of CATL’s battery exchange system is planned [5].
Sources
[1] https://www.ai-ways.eu/de/ (Homepage, Access 05.09.2022)
[2] https://autonews.gasgoo.com/china_news/70021623.html (Access 04.06.2023)
[3] https://media.ai-ways.eu/de/modelle/u5/ (Access 12.09.2022)
[4] https://media.ai-ways.eu/2020/aiways-teams-up-with-worlds-best-suppliers-to-develop-u5-all-electric-suv/ (Access 20.07.2022)
[5] https://www.electrive.com/2022/04/27/aiways-to-use-catls-battery-swapping-system/ (Access 20.07.2022)
[cs 05.09.2022, 04.06.2023]
Aptera is a Californian solar start-up, that was only founded in 2019 by Chris Anthony and Steve Fambro in San Diego, although the founders had already been involved with electric vehicles before [1].
Aptera, along with Lightyear and Sono Motors, is one of the startups focusing on electric vehicles with solar cells, meaning that some of the electrical energy will be generated directly from the sun.
Aptera Model Gamma
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Aptera Motors Corp. [Homepage])
Configurator Aptera Homepage
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Aptera Motors Corp. [Homepage])
The entry price is $25,900 for the 250-mile (402 km) range version; optional ranges of 400, 600, or even 1000 miles (1609 km) can be configured; for the 1000-mile variant, the base price is $44,900 (see figure above).
The number of solar panels can also be configured, with an additional charge of €900 for the maximum configuration.
Up to 40 miles per day can be charged via the solar cells, which is roughly equivalent to the average daily driving distance in the USA. Especially for sun-drenched and densely populated Southern California, this idea of “driving without recharging” sounds fascinating, of course.
Aptera’s cell supplier is EVE Energy, using 21700 cells (21 mm diameter, 70 mm length) with NMC-811 chemistry (nickel/manganese/cobalt ratio of 8 to 1 to 1) [2].
Overall, the Aptera is a very exciting product, but it remains to be seen whether it will appeal to American consumers.enten finden wird, bleibt abzuwarten.
Sources
[1] https://aptera.us/ (Homepage, Access 13.02.2023)
[2] https://aptera.us/aptera-announces-battery-cell-supplier-eve-energy-co-ltd/ (Homepage, Access 13.02.2023)
[cs 13.02.2022]
ARI 458
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of ARI Motors GmbH [Homepage])
The vehicle platforms comes from the Chinese manufacturer Jiauan EV [2].
The cell supplier of Ari Motors or Jiauan EV is not known to the editors.
Sources
[1] https://ari-motors.com/ (Homepage, Access 17.09.2022)
[2] https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/ARI_Motors (Access 17.09.2022)
[cs 17.09.2022]
Arrival VAN
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Arrival UK Ltd. [Press Release])
Arrival Bus
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Arrival UK Ltd. [Press Release])
The cell supplier of Arrival is not known to the editors.
Sources
[1] https://arrival.com/ (Homepage, Access 18.09.2022)
[cs 20.09.2022]
Chinese BEV joint-venture established by Changan and Nio in 2018. Changan is a state-owned car manufacturer, which was founded back in 1862 to produce military equipment, among the 4 major state-owned car companies in China, Changan ranks 4th.
Meanwhile, Nio has withdrawn from the company again, CATL has entered instead. Huawei is assisting with development but does not have a stake in the company.
Production only started in November 2022, so sales figures over a longer period are not yet available. Avatr is aiming to sell 100,000 vehicles in 2023.
Avatr 11 – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Avatr Technology (Chongqing) Co., LTD. [Homepage])
Avatr 11 – Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Avatr Technology (Chongqing) Co., LTD. [Homepage])
The first model is the Avatr 11, a pleasing midsize SUV coupe equipped with CATL’s new cell-to-pack technology. Other technical specs according to the press release include: 750 volt platform, 680km range according to CLTC, 200km recharge in 10 minutes and classic NMC cell chemistry.
So far, the vehicle is only available in the Chinese market.
In September 2023, the 2nd model, a coupe called Avatr 12, was shown for the first time in Germany at the IAA in Munich [2].
Sources
[1] https://www.avatr.com/ (Homepage, Access 06.02.2023)
[2] https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/neuheiten/avatr-11-elektroauto-marke-catl-changan-nio-china (Access 13.09.2023)
[cs 06.02.2022, 13.09.2023]
BeyonCa is a BEV-Start-up founded in 2022 by Renault China CEO Soh Weiming and Dongfeng Motor in China. Company locations include a headquarters in Beijing, a design center in Munich, and an artificial intelligence development site in Singapore.
The name stands for “Beyond Car”, which probably means “more than a car”; the “more” includes medical monitoring functions such as blood pressure measurements, which are to be integrated into the vehicle.
GT Opus 1 – Front
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of BeyonCa Information Technology Co., Ltd [Homepage])
GT Opus 1 – Back
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of BeyonCa Information Technology Co., Ltd [Homepage])
The first product is a premium sedan called GT Opus 1 with an operating voltage of 800 V and a HV battery with 130 kWh. In terms of gap dimensions, the company wants to follow the lead of German premium manufacturers, which it has also identified as its main competitors [2].
Series production and sales are scheduled to start in 2024.
The cell supplier is not known to the editors, but may not yet be known.
Sources
[1] http://www.beyonca.com/ (Homepage, Access 13.02.2023)
[2] https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/neuheiten/beyonca-gt-opus-1-super-premium-elektroauto/ (Access 13.02.2023)
[cs 06.02.2022]
BYD Company Limited (BYD for short) was founded as start-up for the production of battery cells in 1995 by Mr. Wang Chuanfu in the city of Shenzhen, with the abbreviation BYD standing for “Build Your Dream”. BYD also became an automobile manufacturer in 2003 by joining Xian Qinhuan Automobile.
Today’s BYD group structure includes various subsidiaries, the most important of which are BYD Auto, BYD Electronics, BYD LED, and BYD Daimler New Technology Company, a joint venture between BYD and Mercedes-Benz AG [1].
BYD Auto is now one of the largest electric car manufacturers in the world. In March 2022, production of pure internal combustion vehicles was discontinued, which means BYD is now focusing on pure electric vehicles (BEV) or plug-in hybrids (PHEV).
This decision has definitely not hurt the company’s growth. Sales have risen sharply since 2022, reaching an all-time high of more than 274,000 NEV vehicles in the month of 08/2023, including nearly 129,000 BEV models. From January to August 2023, BYD sold nearly 1.8 million NEV vehicles, up 83% from 2022 [2].
BYD Model Han – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Hedin Electric Mobility GmbH [Homepage])
BYD Model Han – Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Hedin Electric Mobility GmbH [Homepage])
BYD vehicles now also sells its vehicles in many countries in Europe. In Germany, 5 different models are now available, including SUVs and sedans [3].
The German car rental company Sixt plans to purchase 100,000 vehicles from BYD within 6 years and successively deploy them in its rental car fleet [4]. Since Sixt sells its vehicles on the used market after the rental car application, a stronger penetration of the European passenger car market with BYD models is to be expected.
HV battery equipped with blade cells
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of BYD Company Ltd. [Homepage])
BYD is currently the only automotive company that develops and produces the lithium-ion cells, the pack and the battery completely in-house. BYD serves all cell formats – cell, pouch and prismatic – and uses the most common cell chemistry variants NMC and LFP.
BYD attracted attention with the presentation of the Blade cell. This is a prismatic cell with an unusual length of almost one meter, which is visually reminiscent of a sword blade.
The blade cell has a lithium iron phosphate chemistry which, unlike the NMC chemistry, does not require critical raw materials such as nickel and cobalt and offers greater safety with regard to overheating (thermal runaway). An HV battery built from blade cells is said to withstand 1.2 million kilometers or 3000 charge cycles, a performance about 3 times better than NMC cells [5].
The disadvantage of iron phosphate cells compared to NMC cells is the lower energy density. When blade cells are used, this disadvantage is compensated by the very compact design that allows HV batteries to be composed of blade cells.
BYD is listed on the stock exchange, among others in Frankfurt under WKN A0M4W9 and ISIN CNE100000296.
Sources
[1] https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/BYD (Access 10.10.2022)
[2] https://cnevpost.com/2023/09/01/byd-nev-sales-in-aug-2023 (Access 08.09.2023)
[3] https://bydauto.de/ (Access 08.09.2023)
[4] https://bydeurope.com/article/437 (Homepage, Access 11.10.2022)
[5] https://battery-news.de/index.php/2021/03/16/neue-infos-zur-blade-battery-von-byd (Access 11.10.2022
[cs 11.10.2022, 08.09.2023]
Attention: business activity was discontinued in 2021.
Chinese BEV start-up founded in 2017 by former BMW and Nissan managers in Honk-Kong, the first vehicle prototype was presented in 2018. Production of the first model, M-Byte, was scheduled to start in 2019, but was delayed several times due to financial difficulties.
In 2021, Byton was insolvent, and Byton has since ceased operations completely [1].
Sources
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Byton_(company) (Access 27.10.2022)
[cs 27.10.2022]
Canoo is a Platform start-up, originally founded in 2018 under a different name by Stefan Krause (among others ex BMW CFO), Karl-Thomas Neumann (ex Opel CEO) and Ulrich Kranz (ex BMW project manager “i”-series ), meanwhile all three have already left the company again [1].
CANOO has developed a modular BEV platform with a fixed wheelbase of 2.85 m, in which all components of the electric powertrain, including the HV battery, are integrated. The platform can be configured as 2- or 4-wheel drive, and the HV battery can have a capacity of 20-80 kWh.
Various vehicle variants such as vans or pick-up trucks can be mounted on the platform [2].
BEV platform from CANOO
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Canoo Technologies Inc. [Press Release])
Van based on CANOO platform
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Canoo Technologies Inc. [Press Release])
In August 2022, CANOO announced that Waltmart had ordered 4500 delivery vehicles, and in October 2022, the leasing company Zeeba added an order for 3000 so-called life-style vehicles [3].
CANOO’s cell supplier is Panasonic [4].
CANOO is listed on Nasdaq (ISIN US13803R1023, WKN A2QJX1).Im August 2022 hat CANOO verkündet, das Waltmart 4500 Lieferfahrzeuge bestellt hat, im Oktober 2022 kam die Bestellung der Leasing-Firma Zeeba über 3000 sogenannte Life-Style-Fahrzeuge hinzu [3].
Sources
[1] https://www.manager-magazin.de/lifestyle/artikel/evelozcity-deutsch-kalifornisches-startup-heisst-jetzt-canoo-a-1259593.html (Access 18.02.2023)
[2] https://www.canoo.com/ (Homepage, Access 18.02.2023)
[3] https://www.press.canoo.com (Access 18.02.2023)
[4] https://www.press.canoo.com/press-release/canoo-announces-ev-battery-module-manufacturing-facility-in-oklahoma (Access 06.02.2023)
[cs 16.10.2022,, Update 18.02.2023]
Ceer is a New-Country start-up new-country start-up from Saudi Arabia, in which the Saudi Arabian sovereign wealth fund but also foreign financiers such as the contract manufacturer Foxxcon have a stake.
The CEO is James DeLuca, who can look back on a long career in the automotive industry. Among other things, he was responsible for global production at General Motors and was the first CEO of the Vietnamese BEV start-up Vinfast [1].
Series production is scheduled to start in 2025 in the “King Abdullah Economic City” [2].
Concrete product information is not yet available.
Sources
[1] https://ceermotors.com/ (Homepage, Access 14.02.2023)
[2] https://ceermotors.com/news/ceer-to-establish-electric-vehicle-manufacturing-site-at-king-abdullah-economic-city/ (Access 14.02.2023)
[cs 14.02.2023]
Cenntro is a U.S. startup based in New Jersey for small and medium-sized battery–electric VANs that can be used primarily for inner-city logistics. In 2021, a merger with Naked Brand Group took place.
In 2022, Cenntro acquired a majority stake in Tropos, a company based in Herne, Germany, which is active in the same market segment..
Cenntro Mini-Van Metro
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Cenntro Electric Group Limited [Homepage])
Cenntro’s first product is the Metro van, of which more than 3300 units have been produced since 2017; target markets are Europe, the USA, Japan, Korea, Singapore and Israel. The product range has now grown significantly, and Cenntro now covers payloads from 500 kg (Logistar 100 model) to 3500 kg (Logistar 400 model).
LFP cells are used in the HV battery, although classic lithium-ion cells with NMC chemistry are still installed in the Metro. The cell supplier of Cenntro of the editorial office is not known.
A separate subsidiary for battery production was established in August 2022, the production site is Monterrey in Mexico, and production is scheduled to start in 2023.
Since the merger with Naked Brand Group, Cenntro is listed on Nasdaq (ISIN AU0000198582, WKN A3DAKM) [1].
Sources
[1] https://ir.cenntroauto.com/ (Access 15.02.2023)
[cs 16.10.2022,, 15.02.2023]
Car manufacturer with cult status, as the only internal combustion model with gullwing doors produced only between 1981 and 1982 played a leading role in the Hollywood trilogy “Back to the Future“. In business terms, the company was a flop; demand collapsed relatively quickly after massive quality problems.
Delorean model ALPHA5
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of DeLorean Motors Reimagined LLC [Homepage])
A BEV start-Up is now venturing to relaunch it as a BEV model, it is called ALPHA5 and is also to feature the iconic gullwing doors again. Nothing is yet known about further technical details.
It remains to be seen whether this company’s second attempt will be more successful.
Sources
[1] https://delorean.com/ (Homepage, Access 19.10.2022)
[cs 19.10.2022]
Evergrande New Energy Auto [↑] [↓] [⇑] [⇓]
Evergrande is one of the largest Chinese real estate companies, which has made the headlines due to its debt crisis [1]. With the new business unit and the BEV brand Evergrande New Energy Auto, the company wants to open up new markets.
The goals communicated by Evergrande sound extremely ambitious. By 2025, production is to be ramped up to one million electric vehicles per year, and five million electric vehicles are targeted by 2035 [2].
The company started production of the Hengchi 5 at its Tianjin plant in September 2022, with deliveries scheduled to begin in October. The vehicle is expected to be offered in China for around €26,000.
Production of Hengchi 6 and 7 is scheduled to ramp up gradually in 2023. Evergrande New Energy Auto’s suppliers include Bosch (e-machine) and CATL (CtP battery with LFP chemistry) [3].
In December 2022, the production of Hengchi 5 was apparently stopped due to lack of demand, and the future of Evergrande New Energy Auto seems uncertain [4].
Evergrande New Energy Auto is listed on the stock exchange, including in Frankfurt (ISIN HK0000264595, WKN A14Y51).
Sources
[1] https://www.faz.net/aktuell/finanzen/staat-eilt-krisenkonzern-china-evergrande-zu-hilfe-17748055.html (Access 27.10.2022)
[2] https://mobilesite.evergrande.com/en/business.aspx?tags=6 (Homepage, Access 27.10.2022)
[3] https://www.electrive.net/2022/09/16/evergrande-nev-startet-serienproduktion-des-hengchi-5-erneut (Access 27.10.2022)
[4] https://cnevpost.com/2022/12/02/evergrande-nev-reportedly-halts-hengchi-5-mass-production-lack-of-orders/ (Access 21.02.2023)
Evum Motors is a start-up for light, electric commercial vehicles that was founded in 2017 by Sascha Koberstaedt and Martin Šoltés in Munich. The business idea of Evum Motors is to develop simple and robust commercial vehicles for Africa and other emerging markets. The first prototype was developed as part of a research project at the Technical University of Munich.
The production site is in Bayerbach, Lower Bavaria, and manufacturing in developing and emerging countries is also planned from 2024.
EVUM aCar
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Evum Motors GmbH [Download Area])
The first product is a light flatbed truck called aCar with all-wheel drive, 1200 kg payload, a top speed of 70 km/h and a range of 200 km. The electric motors operate at a relatively low voltage of 48 volts, a voltage that is less dangerous to humans than the 400 to 800 volts normally used. This also means that fewer protective measures are required, which significantly simplifies the design.
The cell supplier of Evum Motors is not known to the editors.
Sources
[1] https://evum-motors.com/ (Access 18.02.2023)
[cs 18.02.2023]
Faraday Future [↑] [↓] [⇑] [⇓]
Faraday Future was founded in 2014 in California as a BEV start-up, being a joint American-Chinese project. The company has locations in Los Angeles (headquarters and R&D center), Silicon Valley, and China (Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu) [1].
The first model is a luxury SUV called FF91, which the company says will compete with premium brands such as Bentley, Ferrari, Maybach, and Rolls-Royce. The few known technical specifications include an output of 1050 hp, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.3 s, and a range of about 600 km.
Faraday Future model FF91
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Faraday&Future Inc. [Press Room])
Interieur F91
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Faraday&Future Inc. [Press Room])
As a luxury SUV, the FF91 is also supposed to offer special comfort in the interior. For example, the rear seats can be adjusted to a so-called zero-gravity position, i.e. the position the human body assumes in zero gravity.
In the above picture of the interior, you can see that the rear door is hinged to the C-pillar, a feature known only from chauffeur-driven sedans like those from Bentley and Rolls-Royce, but not from SUVs. It remains to be seen whether this feature will also be implemented in the production model.
The start of series production was postponed several times due to financial bottlenecks, but could be launched in Q1/2023.
Sources
[1] https://www.ff.com/(Homepage, Access 18.02.2023)
[2] https://www.ff.com/us/press-room/FF-ships-latest-production-intent-FF91-to-China-for-final-evaluation-and-testing-purposes (Access 18..02.2023)[3] https://www.electrive.net/2022/09/16/evergrande-nev-startet-serienproduktion-des-hengchi-5-erneut (Access 18.02.2023)
[cs 27.10.2022]
Among BEV start-ups BEV start-ups, Fisker is a real stand-up guy. Founded in 2007 by former BMW designer Hendrik Fisker under the name Fisker Automotive, the first model called Karma – a plug-in hybrid – was presented at the Detroit Auto Show as early as 2008.
Due to the insolvency of the cell supplier A123, production had to be stopped again in 2012, and the assets were sold to a Chinese group of companies.
Fisker Ocean – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Fisker, Inc.. [Press Gallery])
Fisker Ocean – Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Fisker, Inc.. [Press Gallery])
In 2016, a re-establishment took place under the name Fisker Inc. but now with a focus on battery electric vehicles (BEV). The first model is an SUV called Ocean, which can be optionally equipped with solar cells on the roof.
Production will be at the contract manufacturer Magna and not own production facilities, here it seems they have learned from the bad experiences of the past. Production was started in November 2022, and around 300 vehicles are to be manufactured in the first production quarter. In total, about 42,000 units are planned for the first production year, with an order backlog of 63,000 vehicles.
Fisker’s cell supplier is CATL [3].
Fisker Inc. is listed on the stock exchange, including Frankfurt (ISIN US33813J1060, WKN A2P9A3).
Sources
[1] https://www.fiskerinc.com/ (Homepage, Access 21.02.2023)
[2] https://insideevs.de/news/602423/fisker-ocean-launch-edition-ausverkauft/ (Access 21.02.2023)
[3] https://pv-magazine-usa.com/2021/11/02/catl-signs-electric-vehicle-battery-supply-deal-with-fisker/#:~:text=Fisker%20Inc.,annually%2C%20from%202023%2D2025. (Access 21.02.2023)
[cs 21.02.2023]
GAC Aion was established in July 2017 as a new BEV brand of GAC Group (Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd.) focusing on innovative battery electric vehicles. GAC Group is a state-owned enterprise from 1954, currently it is the fifth largest Chinese automaker of internal combustion engine vehicles [1].
GAC Aion is the most successful new BEV brand of an internal combustion engine manufacturer, with more than 270,000 vehicles sold in China in 2022 [2].
This is significantly more than the BEV start-ups NIO and Xpeng, which are much better known in Germany. The growth seems to continue into 2023, with the brand selling more than 40,000 units for the 2nd month in a row in April 2023 [3].
GAC Aion Hyper GT – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of GAC Aion New Energy Automobile Co., Ltd. [Press Gallery])
GAC Aion Hyper GT – Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of GAC Aion New Energy Automobile Co., Ltd. [Homepage])
Models on offer include classic sedans (AION S, AION S Plus) and SUVs (AION LX Plus, AION V Plus, AION Y Plus). AION attracted particular attention with the Hyper GT, a four-door super sports car with a drag coefficient of 0.19 cW; production and sales are scheduled to start in 2023. No export to Europe is known [4].
Batteries and cells have so far been sourced from CALB, but since October 2022 it has been known that AION, together with GAC Motors, intends to enter battery production itself via the newly founded subsidiary Yinpai Battery [5].
The parent company GAC Motor is listed on the stock exchange (ISIN CNE100000Q35, WKN A1C2W3).
Sources
[1] https://www.gac.com.cn/en/brand (Access 22.02.2023)
[2] https://cnevpost.com/2023/01/01/gac-aion-sells-30007-vehicles-in-dec (Access 02.06.2023)
[3] https://cnevpost.com/2023/05/01/gac-aion-sells-41012-vehicles-apr (Access 02.06.2023)
[4] https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/elektroauto/gac-aion-hyper-gt-elektrolimousine-china/#:~:text=Die%20beschert%20dem%20Hyper%20GT,Allradversion%20soll%20sp%C3%A4ter%20nachgeschoben%20werden.
(Access 27.10.2022)
[5] https://equalocean.com/news/2022102819093 (Access 22.02.2023)
[cs 22.02.2023]
Hozon Auto (Neta) [↑] [↓] [⇑] [⇓]
Hozon Auto is a BEV start-up founded in 2014 in Zhejiang province south of Shanghai [1]. Additionally, a research center for autonomous driving was opened in Silicon Valley in 2018 and a design center in Beijing in 2019 [2][3].
The products are sold in China under the Neta brand, and there are no plans yet to export to Europe. Since November 2021, cell and battery manufacturer CATL has held a stake in subsidiary Neta Auto, although the size of the stake is not known [4].
In 2022, Hozon Auto still ranked 9th on the list of the world’s best-selling electric cars with its Neta V model, with approximately 94,400 vehicles sold [5].
In September 2023, Germany Hozon Auto was represented for the first time at the IAA in Munich [6].
Hozon Auto Neta U2 – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Hozon New Energy Automobile Co.,Ltd.. [Press Gallery])
Hozon Auto Neta U2 – Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Hozon New Energy Automobile Co.,Ltd.. [Press Gallery])
Hozon Auto’s first products include SUVs such as the Neta U Pro (similar to the VW ID 4 at around 4.5 m in length), Neta V (around 4 m in length) and, since April 2022, the Neta S sedan, which at around 4.8 m in length is slightly larger than Tesla’s Model 3.
In January 2023, Neta Auto announced that it was working with CATL subsidiary CATL Intelligent Technology to develop the so-called CATL Integrated Intelligent Chassis (CIIC). This involves the development of a floor assembly in which the HV battery with all its components – i.e. cells plus control electronics – is integrated [7].
Sources
[1] https://carnewschina.com/2017/04/28/hozon-auto-another-new-ev-brand-china (Access 24.03.2023)
[2] https://www.futurecar.com/2163/HOZON-Auto-Launches-R&D-Center-in-Silicon-Valley-to-Explore-Autonomous-Driving (Access 24.02.2023)
[3] http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/201904/01/WS5ca18428a3104842260b3ad3.html (Access 24.02.2023)
[4] https://www.electrive.net/2021/11/15/catl-beteiligt-sich-an-e-auto-marke-neta (Access 24.02.2023)
[5] https://www.enbw.com/blog/elektromobilitaet/trends/verkaufszahlen-e-autos-das-sind-die-meistverkauften-stromer-2022 (Access 24.02.2023)
[6] https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/iaa-internationale-automobil-ausstellung (Access13.09.2023)
[7] https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/die-zukunft-von-elektrofahrzeugen-integration-von-zelle-und-fahrgestell–neta-auto-und-catl-entwickeln-gemeinsam-ciic-301719279.html (Access 24.02.2023)
[cs 24.02.2023, 13.09.2023]
Human Horizons [↑] [↓] [⇑] [⇓]
Human Horizons is a BEV start-up for premium vehicles founded in Shanghai in 2017 by former GM China manager Ding Lei [1].
So far, Human Horizons has focused its sales on China, but since June 2023, the two models HiPhi X and Z are also available for order in Germany and Norway.
In September 2023, Human Horizons was represented in Germany for the first time at the IAA in Munich with the HiPhi Z, which could also be test-driven [2].
HiPHi X from Human Horizons
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Human Horizons (Shanghai) Connectivity Technology Co., Ltd. [Media Center])
HiPHi Z from Human Horizons
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Human Horizons (Shanghai) Connectivity Technology Co., Ltd. [Media Center])
The HiPhi X SUV was introduced in 2020, and the HiPhi Z luxury sedan has also been on offer since August 2022. The HiPhi X is equipped with a 120 kWh battery integrated into the body, with the cells probably being supplied by CATL [3].
Human Horizons’ suppliers also include Vitesco, who supply the control electronics for the battery management system (BMS) [4].
Sources
[1] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/videos/2018-11-23/human-horizons-founder-ding-lei-on-tesla-video (Access 27.02.2023)
[2] https://de.motor1.com/news/685782/china-marken-iaa-mobility-2023 (Access 13.09.2023)
[3] https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/elektroauto/human-horizons-hiphi-z-elektro-gt (Access 27.02.2023)
[4] https://www.vitesco-technologies.com/de-de/press-events/press/22-11-10-cn (Access 27.02.2023)
[cs 27.02.2023, 13.09.2023]
Hycan is a new BEV brand of the joint venture between GAC and NIO launched in 2018. GAC stands for Guangzhou Automobile Group, China’s fifth-largest manufacturer of internal combustion vehicles. It was founded in 1954 as a state-owned enterprise. In the meantime, NIO has withdrawn from the joint venture again, i.e. Hycan is now a pure GAC brand [1].
Production did not start until mid-2022, with ~3000 vehicles delivered in each of the months from September to November 2022 [2].
Hycan 007 – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Hechuang Automotive Technology Co., Ltd. [Homepage])
Hycan 007 – Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Hechuang Automotive Technology Co., Ltd. [Homepage])
The first model is an SUV with the name 007, which naturally evokes associations with a well-known British secret agent. The vehicle is based on a GAC platform and is available with 2 battery sizes. Basic equipment is a 73-kWh battery with a range of 523 kilometers, while the premium variant has a 93-kWh battery that is supposed to be good for a range of 643 kilometers according to CLTC. Parents can monitor their children’s behavior in the back seat via an interior camera [3].
Other models include a coupe-like sedan (A06), a compact SUV (Z03), and a large SUV with 3 rows of seats (V09) [4].
The cell supplier is not known, but the parent company GAC purchases its cells from CALB. It is therefore not unlikely that CALB cells are also used in Hycan.
Sources
[1] https://autonews.gasgoo.com/china_news/70021139.html (Access 07.06.2023)
[2] https://autonews.gasgoo.com/china_news/70021812.html (Access 07.06.2023)
[3] https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/elektroauto/hycan-007-elektro-suv-aus-china-mit-643-km-reichweite (Access 26.05.2023)
[4] https://www.hycan.com.cn/ (Zugriff 26.05.2023)
[cs 26.05.2023, 07.06.2023]
IM Motors is a very young BEV joint-venture founded in January 2021 as a cooperation between SAIC Motors, Zhangjiang Hi-Tech and Alibaba [1]. Similar to Afeela and Aito, the idea is to combine the expertise of a traditional automotive manufacturing company (SAIC) with an electronics group (Alibaba).
Although only founded in 2021, IM Motors could already sell ~5000 vehicles in 2022 [2].
Handelsblatt surprised in July 2023 with the news about intensive negotiations of VW subsidiary Audi with SAIC Motors. This is about the use of the technical platform of IM Motors for future Audi models [3].
IM Motors LS7 IM – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Zhiji Automobile Technology Co., Ltd. [Homepage])
IM Motors LS7 IM – Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Zhiji Automobile Technology Co., Ltd. [Homepage])
The models presented so far position themselves primarily against Tesla. The L7 model is a premium sedan that drives against the Tesla Model S and is equipped with a variety of assistance systems. The L5 and LS7 models are positioned slightly lower, with the L5 taking its cues from the Model 3 and the LS7 from the Model Y SUV segment [4].
So far, the models are only offered on the Chinese domestic market; there is no word on an export to Europe.
The cell supplier of IM Motors is not known to the editors.
Sources
[1] https://equalocean.com/company/zhijiqiche (Access 27.02.2023)
[2] https://autonews.gasgoo.com/china_news/70022030.html (Access 04.06.2023)
[3] https://www.handelsblatt.com/unternehmen/industrie/elektroautos-deal-mit-saic-audis-elektro-neustart-in-china-wird-konkreter/29270714.html (Access 01.08.2023)[4] https://www.immotors.com/ (Homepage, Access 27.02.2023)
[cs 27.02.2023, 04.06.2023, 01.08.2023]
Ineos Automotive [↑] [↓] [⇑] [⇓]
Ineos Automotive is a start-up founded in 2016 by Jim Ratcliffe, founder and CEO of the chemical company Ineos, in response to the discontinuation of production of the Land Rover Defender.
Together with Magna, it developed a rugged internal combustion off-roader called the Grenadier, which has been in production at the former Smart plant in Hambach, France, since 2022. Many components of the Grenadier, such as the engines, come from BMW [1].
Ineos Grenadier
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of INEOS Capital Limited [Homepage])
In cooperation with Magna, the development of a battery-electric SUV is now planned, which will also be produced by Magna in Graz from 2026.
Sources
[1] https://www.ineos.com/businesses/ineos-automotive/ (Access 02.05.2023)
[cs 02.05.2023]
Izera is the BEV brand of the Polish New-Country start-up ElectroMobility Poland, with the brand name Izera being based on a tributary of the Elbe River. The German development service provider EDAG is involved in the development, and the Italian company Torino Design was commissioned for the design [1].
The first two models were unveiled in July 2020, primarily targeting Polish SMEs. A hatchback and a mid-sized SUV were shown, which according to the announcement will be sold with 2 battery sizes and a maximum range of 400 km.alen Reichweite von 400 km verkauft werden sollen.
Izera hatchback model – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of ElectroMobility Poland S.A. [For Media])
Izera hatchback model – Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of ElectroMobility Poland S.A. [Homepage])
The production start originally scheduled for 2023 can probably not be kept, the reasons could be a lack of financing and/or a product that is not yet ready for series production. Production is now not scheduled to start until the end of 2025 [2].
Fittingly, there was a press release in November 2022 about the licensing of the so-called Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) of the Chinese Geely Group, which requires a revision of the previous development models [3].
The SEA contains a complete chassis including HV battery and drive electronics and is available in various configurations [4].
The cell supplier for the SEA platform is CATL, which is why we assume that CATL cells will also be installed in Izera.
Sources
[1] https://ecomento.de/2020/07/30/elektroauto-marke-izera-polnisches-staats-startup (Access 28.02.2023)
[2] https://www.electrive.net/2023/01/20/electromobility-poland-will-erst-ende-2025-mit-izera-produktion-beginnen (Access 28.02.2023)
[3] https://izera.com/ (Homepage, Access 28.02.2023)
[4] https://insideevs.de/news/515219/geely-plattform-sea-funf-versionen (Access 28.02.2023)
[cs 28.02.2023]
Leapmotor is a BEV start-up founded in 2015 in the Chinese city of Hangzhou. In 2018, the announcement about the first artificial intelligence chip “Lingxin 01” developed in China, which is specifically designed for autonomous driving as well as other deep learning-based systems, attracted attention [1].
Leapmotor sold ~111,000 vehicles in 2022 [2], slightly behind NIO and Xpeng NIO and Xpeng, which sold 120,000 units each.
In July 2023, it became known that Leapmotor is presumably negotiating with Volkswagen about licensing its BEV platform. VW would like to use the Leapmotor technology for the Chinese sub-brand Jetta in the future [3].
Leapmotor C0I – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Zhejiang Leapmotor Technology Co.,Ltd [News Room])
Leapmotor C0I – Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Zhejiang Leapmotor Technology Co.,Ltd [Homepage])
Leapmotor’s models include a 4-door compact vehicle T03, a 2-door sports coupe S01, a mid-size SUV C11, and a mid-size sedan C01 [4].
At the IAA 2023 in Munich, Leapmotor was represented for the first time in Germany at a car conference. The T03 compact model was presented, which is intended to compete with the Fiat 500 [5].
According to a 2021 source, LFP cells from three different suppliers will be installed in the T03, namely CATL, Guoxuan and SVOLT [6].
According to Leapmotor, the C01 is the first vehicle in the world to implement the Cell-To-Chassis (CTC) concept. In this approach, the battery housing is part of the car body. Unfortunately, Leapmotor’s press release does not mention which cell supplier is used in the CTC approach.
Leapmotor is listed in China (ISIN CNE100005K77).
Sources
[2] https://cnevpost.com/2023/01/01/leapmotor-delivers-8493-units-in-dec/#:~:text=For%20the%20full%20year%202022,from%2043%2C121%20units%20in%202021. (Access 28.02.2023)
[3] https://www.faz.net/aktuell/wirtschaft/unternehmen/china-vw-verhandelt-offenbar-mit-startup-leapmotor-19075554.html (Access 13.09.2023)
[4] https://en.leapmotor.com/newItem (Homepage, Access 01.03.2023)
[5] https://de.motor1.com/news/685782/china-marken-iaa-mobility-2023 (Access 13.09.2023)
[6] https://pushevs.com/2021/10/18/leapmotor-t03-now-has-3-lfp-battery-suppliers (Access 02.03.2023)
[cs 27.10.2022, 13.09.2023]
Lightyear is a Dutch solar start-up that emerged from a student initiative at TU Eindhoven that participated in various solar vehicle competitions.
Based on the project experience, Lightyear – similar to Aptera and Sono Motors – has developed an electric vehicle with solar panels that generates part of the driving energy directly from the sun. This model, called Lightyear 0, was originally intended to sell for €250,000, but after producing a few vehicles, Lightyear had to file for bankruptcy in January 2023 due to lack of demand [1].
Lightyear 02
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Atlas Technologies B.V. [Press Area])
With the help of private investors, a new company has since been founded, to which the patents of the insolvent parent company have also been transferred. This new company is now to develop a lower-cost solar vehicle called Lightyear 02, which is to be offered for 40,000 euros.
Sources
[1] https://lightyear.one/ (Homepage, Access 02.03.2023)
[2] https://www.faz.net/aktuell/wirtschaft/unternehmen/solarautohersteller-lightyear-mit-neuem-geld-vorerst-gerettet-18695740.html (Access 02.03.2023)
[cs 02.03.2023]
Li Auto is a Chinese electric vehicle Start-up start-up founded in 2015 by Li Xiang, whose investors include ByteDance, a company made famous by TikTik.
Li Auto is one of the few companies that have so far exclusively produced so-called range extender models. The vehicles have an internal combustion engine on board, which is used as an electricity generator when the battery is empty. Unlike a plug-in hybrid, there is no mechanical coupling of the combustion engine to the drive wheels [1].
So far, 4 SUV models have been developed, named Li L7, Li L8, Li L9 and Li One, which are marketed primarily as family vehicles. The L7, at 5 m long, is already somewhat larger than a BMW X5, while the L9, at 5.22 m, towers over the X7 by a few cm. In all models, the combustion engine for the range extender sits in the rear of the vehicle.
The range extender concept seems to be very well received by Chinese customers, with Li Auto increasing sales from ~32,500 vehicles in 2020 to more than 133,000 vehicles in 2022 [2].
Growth continued in 2023 as well, with Li Auto selling nearly 35,000 units in August 2023 [3].
An export of the vehicles to Europe does not seem to be planned so far.
Li L9 – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Li Auto Inc. [Homepage])
Li L9 – Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Li Auto Inc. [Homepage])
At the Shanghai Motor Show 2023, Li Auto announced in a press release that 5 new BEV models will be launched by 2025. With this, Li Auto leaves its range extender-only strategy, which is certainly due to the technological progress regarding fast charging as well as the better availability of charging stations.
The technological basis is an 800-volt architecture, which should enable a recharging of 400 km in 10 min. The same press release also announced a strategic collaboration with CATL and the establishment of a charging network in China [4].
Li Motor is listed on the stock exchange, including Frankfurt (ISIN KYG5479M1050, WKN A2QACD).
Sources
[1] https://ir.lixiang.com/ (Homepage, Access 22.04.2023)
[2] https://carnewschina.com/2023/02/28/li-auto-sold-over-130000-vehicles-in-2022-annual-report-says (Access 13.09.2023)
[3] https://cnevpost.com/2023/09/01/li-auto-deliveries-in-aug-2023 (Access 13.09.2023)
[3] https://ir.lixiang.com/news-releases/news-release-details/li-auto-inc-unveils-autonomous-driving-and-bev-roadmap (Access 22.04.2022)
[cs 22.04.2023]
Liux is a Spanish BEV start-up founded in 2021 by David Sancho Domingo and Antonio Espinosa de los Monteros in Madrid [1]. The choice of name does not seem very fortunate, as it is close to a very popular operating system, which makes searching the Internet much more difficult.
Investors include the leasing provider OK Mobility and the Spanish Ministry of Industry, and further rounds of financing are required to implement series production [2].
Liux prototype Animal
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of NATURAL MOVEMENT, S.L. [Press Gallery])
Liux prototype Gecko
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of NATURAL MOVEMENT, S.L. [Press Gallery])
The first prototype presented was the Animal model, a crossover between an SUV and a station wagon. The absence of the B-pillar and the rear doors that are hinged against the direction of travel is interesting, but it remains to be seen whether this design will also be found in the production vehicle. In the meantime, Liux seems to be focusing on a 2-seater city vehicle called Gecko, which externally resembles the 1st generation Smart.
Liux emphasizes that particularly many components of the Animal will be made from renewable natural resins and natural fibers. The number of components is to be reduced by 25% compared with comparative vehicles.
Sources
[1] https://www.liux.eco/ (Homepage, Access 02.03.2023)
[2] https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/verkehr/liux-animal-nachhaltige-e-autos-ab-2023 (Access 02.03.2023)
[cs 02.03.2023]
Lordstown Motors [↑] [↓] [⇑] [⇓]
Attention: Lordstown Motors filed for bankruptcy and creditor protection in June 2023.
Lordstown Motors is a BEV start-up founded in 2018 by Steve Burns [1].
In 2019, Lordstown Motors acquired the former GM plant in Lordsdown, Michigan from General Motors. Due to financial difficulties, the plant was resold to Taiwanese contract manufacturer Foxconn for $230 million in November 2021 [2]. In November 2022, Foxconn invested another $170 million in Lordstown Motors [3].
Lordstown Motors has developed a typical American light truck (US wording) or pick-up truck called Endurance with 5.8 m length. The special feature of this model is that all 4 wheels are driven by a so-called wheel hub motor: The motor sits in the wheel hub in direct proximity to the tire, which significantly reduces the complexity of the drivetrain components, as components such as drive shafts and differential gears can be omitted.
Endurance from Lordstown Motors – Front
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Lordstown Motors Corp. [Media Page])
Endurance fromLordstown Motors – Back
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Lordstown Motors Corp. [Media Page])
The disadvantage of this drive concept is the unsprung masses, which are approximately twice as high on the Endurance as on a comparable vehicle with a conventional powertrain due to the weight of the electric motor. In an interview, CEO Steve Burn confirmed that the development of the spring-damper system had therefore been a major challenge [4].
After a production run of 31 vehicles, production was interrupted in February 2023 due to quality problems with supplier components, and a well-known German car magazine is already questioning the future of Lordstown Motors [5].
The supplier for the e-machine is the Slovakian company Elaphe, cell supplier is LG Chem [6].
Lordstown Motors is listed on the stock exchange (ISIN US54405Q1004, WKN A2QGHG).
Sources
[1] https://www.carscoops.com/2019/12/lordstown-endurance-to-have-at-least-200-miles-of-range-and-four-electric-motors (Access 03.03.2023)
[2] https://investor.lordstownmotors.com/news-releases/news-release-details/foxconn-and-lordstown-motors-enter-transformative-strategic (Access, Zugriff 03.03.2023)
[3] https://investor.lordstownmotors.com/news-releases/news-release-details/lordstown-motors-and-foxconn-broaden-strategic-partnership (Access, Zugriff 03.03.2023)
[4] https://www.ideastream.org/news/economy/2020-06-29/lordstown-motors-big-gamble-on-hub-motors (Access 03.03.2023)
[5] https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/verkehr/hindenburg-research-lordstown-motors-iphone-hersteller-foxconn-werksverkauf (Access 03.03.2023)
[6] https://www.lordstownmotors.com/blogs/news/lordstown-motors-releases-business-updates-prepares-ohio-factory-to-begin-building-betas-next-month (Homepage, Access 03.03.2023)
[cs 03.03.2023, 06.08.2023]
Lucid Motors was founded back in 2007 as a BEV start-up under a different name in California. Originally a supplier of BEV components such as battery and e-motor, it was renamed Lucid Motors in 2016. As part of this rebranding, the development of a luxury BEV vehicle was also announced, with the first prototype unveiled in December 2016. Welshman Peter Rawlinson, who was instrumental in the development of the Tesla Model S, joined Lucid as CTO in 2013 and became CEO in 2019 [1].
In a December 2022 equity offering, Lucid raised $1.5 billion, with $800 million coming from Saudi Arabian investors. In total, Saudi Arabian funds hold a stake of about 62%.
Lucid Air – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Lucid Group, Inc. [Media Room])
Lucid Air – Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Lucid Group, Inc. [Media Room])
Lucid Motors follows the large-car-large-profit strategy, i.e. the first model Lucid Air is a luxury sedan with extreme performance data such as 1111 hp, up to 883 km WLTP range and acceleration from 0 to 100 in 2.7 s. Lucid uses a 900 V architecture, which in particular also enables fast charging; a charging time of 15 min is specified for 400 km driving range [3].
In 2022, Lucid Motors has produced 7180 Air-type vehicles. Sales in Europe have also started, showrooms have been opened in Germany, Switzerland and the Netherlands, among other countries. Lucid is developing a premium SUV as its next model, with technical details to be released later in 2023 [4].
Lucent’s cell supplier is Panasonic [5].
Lucent is listed on the stock exchange, including in Frankfurt (ISIN US5494981039, WKN A3CVXG).
Sources
[1] https://www.businessinsider.de/wirtschaft/mobility/elon-musk-tesla-erfolgsgeheimnis-lucid-motors-air-chef-peter-rawlinson-unermuedlicher-optimismus (Access 04.03.2023)
[2] https://www.cnbc.com/2022/12/19/ev-maker-lucid-raises-from-the-saudi-public-wealth-fund-and-other-investors.html (Access 04.03.2023)
[3] https://www.lucidmotors.com/ (Homepage, Access 04.03.2023)
[4] https://www.lucidmotors.com/de-de/media-room/lucid-gravity-reservations-open-early-2023 (Homepage, Access 04.03.2023)
[5] https://www.lucidmotors.com/de-de/media-room/panasonic-agreement-supply-lithium-ion-batteries (Homepage, Access 04.03.2023)
[cs 04.03.2022]
Mullen Technologies [↑] [↓] [⇑] [⇓]
Mullen Technologies is a BEV start-up from California founded in 2012 by David Michery.
It is difficult to see a consistent corporate strategy in Mullen Technologies’ activities. The models shown on the homepage form a hodgepodge of different vehicle categories such as sports cars, light trucks, trucks, vans and SUVs [1].
The vehicle sources are also different: they are either to be imported into the USA (DragonFly sports car from Qiantu Motor), come from the development pipeline of companies that have been bought up (commercial vehicles in the US Class 3 and 4 vehicle categories from Bollinger) or are in-house developments (Mullen FIFE sports SUV).
The development of the Mullen FIFE is supported by the German-based engineering firm Rosberg-Engineering of former Formula 1 racing driver Keke Rosberg [2].
Sport-SUV Mullen FIVE – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Mullen Automotive, Inc.[Media Page])
Sport-SUV Mullen FIVE – Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Mullen Automotive, Inc.[Media Page])
Mullen is also working on innovative battery technologies such as lithium-sulfur cells and solid-state batteries, according to its own website.
In April 2022, Mullen faced serious allegations of fraud from short-seller Hindenburg Research. These related to both vehicle order intake and solid-state battery research [3].
Mullen Technologies is listed on the stock exchange, including Frankfurt (ISIN US62526P1093, WKN A3C67R).
Sources
[1] https://www.mullenusa.com/ (Access 09.03.2023)
[2] https://www.elektroauto-news.net/2022/mullen-five-team-rosberg-engineering-serienreife (Access 09.03.2023)
[3] https://hindenburgresearch.com/mullen (Access 09.03.2022)
[cs 09.03.2023]
Munro Vehicles [↑] [↓] [⇑] [⇓]
Munro Vehicles is a Scottish BEV start-up for electric off-road vehicles founded in 2021 by Russ Peterson and Ross Anderson. Using the chassis of an existing vehicle model – presumably a Land Rover Defender – Munro has developed an all-wheel-drive prototype designed for tough off-road use [1].
Munro MK_1
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of ALL TERRAIN ALL ELECTRIC LTD [Homepage])
This vehicle is now to be produced in small series. The base price for the MK_1 is £49,000, with the first deliveries planned for 2024.
Sources
[1] https://www.munro-ev.com/ (Access 10.03.2023)
[cs 10.03.2023]
NIO is a BEV start-up founded by William Li in Shanghai in 2014; investors include Baidu, Lenovo and Tencent. The product range includes SUVs and sedans; since October 2022, some of the vehicles have also been exported to Europe. From 2018 to 2022, NIO was able to increase its sales by ~8,000 to ~122,000 cars [1].
In 2023, NIO was able to increase deliveries to ~160,000 vehicles, which corresponds to an increase of 30.7% compared to the previous year.
For 2024, NIO plans to sell around 230,000 vehicles, but would still be well behind Tesla and BYD. In April and May 2024, deliveries increased to 15,620 and 20,544 vehicles respectively, which corresponds to significant growth compared to the previous year.
Five different models are currently sold in Germany, including two saloons (ET5, ET7), two SUVs (EL6, EL7) and an estate (also ET5). Other target markets are Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden [2].
NIO ET7
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy NIO Deutschlang GmbH [Press Release])
Battery swapping station from NIO
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of NIO Deutschlang GmbH [Press Release])
One of the special features of NIO is the battery exchange concept, with which NIO currently has a unique selling point. In special exchange stations, empty batteries can be replaced by full batteries, with the exchange taking place fully automatically and in just 5 minutes.
There are already more than 1100 exchange stations in China, where up to 30,000 exchanges are carried out every day. Swap stations are also being set up in Germany, and EnBW has been won as a cooperation partner [3].
Of course, vehicles with exchange batteries can also be charged at normal charging stations, i.e. battery exchange is an additional charging option.
In addition to the time savings, battery swapping offers other advantages in principle:
- battery aging is no longer an issue
- the battery capacity can be adapted to the required driving profile
- older vehicles benefit from technological progress in cell technology
Nevertheless, it remains to be seen whether the “battery swap” concept can hold its own against classic, cable-based charging in the long term.
Currently, a lot of research is being done on the topic of fast charging, which means that the time saved by battery swapping will decrease. In addition, the construction of the exchange stations involves costs that NIO will have to bear on its own.
NIO’s cell supplier is CATL.
NIO is listed on the stock exchange, among others in Frankfurt (ISIN US62914V1061, WKN WKN A2N4PB).
Sources
[1] https://www.nio.com/de_DE (Homepage, Access 17.03.2023)
[2] https://www.springerprofessional.de/elektromobilitaet/unternehmen—institutionen/das-planen-chinesische-e-auto-hersteller-in-europa/23983186 (Access 17.03.2023)
[3] https://www.autobild.de/artikel/akku-wechseln-bei-e-autos-nio-kosten-laden-china-europa-enbw-21367859.html (Access 17.03.2023)
[cs 17.03.2023, 11.7.2024]
Olymp Cars is a BEV start-up from Austria, founded as a joint project of the companies abo-drive and Modern Mobility GmbH, both coming from the fleet management sector [1].
The first model presented is a mid-size SUV called ARES with a length of 4.80 m and a planned range of 600 km.
Sketch SUV model ARES
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of OLYMP – Cars [Homepage])
Further passenger car models are planned on the same platform, and a VAN called Hermes is also to be developed. The presentation of the first vehicle prototypes has been announced for spring 2023 [2].
The vehicles are to be produced by contract manufacturers and the battery cells are to be sourced from Chinese suppliers.
Sources
[1] https://www.olymp-cars.com/ (Access 21.03.2023)
[2] https://ecomento.de/2022/05/30/olymp-cars-aus-oesterreich-plant-mehrere-elektroautos-und-wasserstoffantrieb (Access 21.03.2023)
[cs 21.03.2023]
Ora is a new new BEV brand from the privately owned Chinese vehicle manufacturer Great-Wall-Motors, with first concept vehicles unveiled back in 2008. However, production and sales on the domestic market did not start until 2018, with some ORA models showing clear similarities to European vehicles [1].
ORA brand vehicles are categorized as so-called minicars in China, and in this class Ora is one of the most successful new BEV brands from an internal combustion engine manufacturer with its White Cat and Black Cat models.
In total, over 100,000 vehicles were sold in 2022 [2].
ORA Funky Cat – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of O! Automobile GmbH [Press Release])
ORA Funky Cat – Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of O! Automobile GmbH [Press Release])
Ora plans to sell 6000 Funky Cat vehicles in Germany in 2023, with distribution via the Emil Frey Group [3].
The vehicle design is reminiscent of a cross between a VW Beetle and Fiat 500 and is available with 2 battery sizes – 48 kWh or 63 kWh. Prices start at €39,000 if the smaller battery is chosen; better equipped vehicles with a large battery and heat pump cost as little as €47,500 [4].
LFP cells are installed in the battery; the cell supplier is SVOLT, which also belongs to Great Wall Motors [5].
Sources
[1] https://www.ora-motor.de/ (Access 22.03.2023)
[2] https://autonews.gasgoo.com/china_news/70022048.html (Access 02.06.2023)
[3] https://carnewschina.com/2022/12/02/ora-chinese-ev-brand-aims-to-sell-6000-vehicles-in-germany-in-2023 (Access 02.06.2023)
[4] https://https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/fahrbericht/ora-funky-cat-400-proww.auto-motor-und-sport.de/fahrbericht/ora-funky-cat-400-pro (Access 21.03.2023)
[5] https://pushevs.com/2021/07/26/ora-good-cat-gets-two-lfp-battery-options (Access 26.03.2023)
[cs 26.03.2023]
Polestar was originally founded in 2005 as a Swedish racing company. In 2015, the sale including brand rights took place to Volvo Car Corporation (passenger car division of Volvo), which at that time already belonged to the Chinese Geely Group.
Today, Polestar is a BEV-brand of a Geely-Volvo joint venture that focuses on sporty vehicles.
While the first model Polestar 1 was still a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), Polestar has been focusing on pure BEV vehicles since its successor Polestar 2 [1].
Currently, Polestar sells its vehicles in 27 countries; in 2022, 50,000 vehicles were delivered worldwide, including 7000 in Germany [2].
Polestar 2 BST edition 230
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Polestar AB [Media Page])
Polestar 2 Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Polestar AB [Homepage])
For 2023, 2 SUV models named Polestar 3 and Polestar 4 are announced, further models are planned.
Cell suppliers for the Polestar 2 are CATL for the 82 kWh and LG Chem for the 69 kWh battery [3].
Polestar is listed on the Frankfurt stock exchange (ISIN US7311052010, WKN A3DP4R).
Sources
[1] https://www.polestar.com/de/ (Homepage, Access 26.03.2023)
[2] https://www.notebookcheck.com/Polestar-Jahresziel-von-50-000-E-Auto-Auslieferungen-in-2022-erreicht-Update.678919.0.html (Access 26.03.2023)
[3] https://www.greencarcongress.com/2023/01/20230125-polestar.html#:~:text=Long%2Drange%20versions%20now%20feature,now%20supplied%20by%20LG%20Chem. (Access 26.03.2023)
[cs 26.03.2023]
REE Automotive [↑] [↓] [⇑] [⇓]
REE Automotive is a Platform start-up from Israel founded in 2019 by Daniel Barel and Ahishay Sardes, both of whom previously built the wheelchair company Softwheel.
REE has developed electric corner modules that integrate all drive components in a compact design, i.e. tires, e-motor, power electronics, wheel suspension and drive shafts.
The modules can be used to configure drive platforms with any wheelbase and track width for car and truck bodies. In principle, each wheel can be steered individually.
Drive, brake and steering are controlled via electronic control signals, i.e. there is no longer any mechanical connection between steering wheel and steering or brake pedal and brake (X-by-Wire system).
Powertrain platform from REE Automotive
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy REE Automotive Ltd. [Homepage])
Demo vehicle with Morgan Olsen body
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of REE Automotive Ltd. [Homepage])
For commercial vehicles in the US categories Class 5-7 (medium duty 8845kg – heavy duty 15,000kg), REE designed a 400-volt platform including HV battery. Based on this platform, Ree, in cooperation with the body manufacturer Morgon Olsen, has built a Class 5 delivery vehicle as a technology demonstrator, which, thanks to rear-axle steering, is characterized by particular agility and a small turning circle.
Technologically, REE Automotive’s platform approach is very interesting, but it remains to be seen whether it can be used to build a viable business model.
Large vehicle manufacturers will certainly not want to become dependent on a system supplier for their core powertrain technology. The X-by-Wire approach represents an additional risk and requires very complex technological measures to implement a safe steering and braking system.
However, the approach is definitely interesting for small series and special vehicles.
Ree’s cell supplier is Microvast.
REE Automotive is listed on the stock exchange, including in Frankfurt (ISIN IL0011786154, WKN A3CWAC).
Sources
[1] https://ree.auto/ (Homepage, Access 27.03.2023)
[cs 26.03.2023]
Rimac Automobili [↑] [↓] [⇑] [⇓]
Rimac Automobili is a Croatian BEV start-up founded in 2009 by Mate Rimac. Rimac builds battery-electric supercars under its own brand and develops and produces powertrain components such as battery systems as a service provider.
Porsche AG holds a 24% stake in the company [1].
Supercat Rimac Nivera – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Rimac Automobili d.o.o. [Press Kit])
HV Battery from Rimac Nivera
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Rimac Automobili d.o.o. [Press Kit])
The Rimac Nivera supercar has 4 wheel-mounted electric motors, the battery has a capacity of 120 kWh. The technical data are impressive, the power is 1.4 MW (1914 hp), acceleration from 0-100 km/h is 1.97s and the top speed is 412 km.
Rimac uses round cells in the 4680 format. Lithium manganese nickel oxide (LMNO) is to be used as the cathode chemistry, this enables a higher cell voltage (5 V) and higher energy density compared to NMC [2].
The cell supplier for the Rimac Nivera is not known to the editors; according to the homepage, Rimac works with round cells from various manufacturers.
In September 2023, a cooperation between Rimac and the Chinese cell manufacturer EVE Energy was announced at the IAA. According to the press release, EVE will build a cell factory for 46xx cells in Europe by 2027, and Rimac will produce battery packs and battery systems based on these cells [3].
Sources
[1] https://www.rimac-automobili.com/ (Homepage, Access 27.03.2023)
[2] https://www.orovel.net/insights/the-rimac-nevera-battery (Access 27.03.2023)
[3] https://www.rimac-newsroom.com/press-releases/rimac-technology/rimac-technology-and-eve-energy-announce-collaboration-on-battery-cell-production (Access 14.09.2023)
[cs 27.03.2023, 14.09.2023]
Rising Auto is a new BEV brand from SAIC Motor, the largest, state-owned automaker from China. The origin of this brand goes back to the British vehicle manufacturer Rover, the former producer of vehicle icons such as Range Rover and Land Rover.
SAIC Motor bought the model rights to the 25 and 75 series from Rover in 2004 without taking over the brand rights. SAIC instead created a new brand with the similar-sounding name Roewe, which means “glorious force” in Chinese. In 2020, the R sub-brand was created for Roewe’s BEV models, which was renamed Rising Auto in 2021.
In the first full month of production in November 2022, Rising Auto sold ~1500 vehicles in the domestic market [1]
Rising Auto SUV R7
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of SAIC Motor Corporation Limited [Homepage])
Rising Auto sedan F7
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of SAIC Motor Corporation Limited [Homepage])
Current models include the R7 SUV and the F7 sedan, each of which is based on the Tesla Model Y and Model 3. The sedan F7 is equipped with LFP battery (64 kWh) or NMC battery (77 kWh), and the interior features a widescreen display similar to the Mercedes EQS and EQE [2].
The batteries are produced by a SAIC/CATL joint venture called United Auto Battery System (UABS). The larger NMC battery can be automatically swapped in battery swap stations similar to NIO, this technology is being developed by SAIC together with Aulton New Energy. By the end of 2025, 10,000 swap stations are expected to be built in China.
The F7 faces strong competition in China from the BYD Han and Seal, Tesla Model 3 and Xpeng P7; as of February 2023, Rising Auto could only sell 200 F7s.
Sources
[1] https://autonews.gasgoo.com/new_energy/70021806.html (Access 08.06.2023)
[2] https://carnewschina.com/2023/03/27/rising-auto-f7-from-saic-launched-in-china-with-swappable-batteries-starts-at-30500-usd (Access 31.05.2023)
[cs 31.05.2023, 08.06.2023]
Rivian Automotive [↑] [↓] [⇑] [⇓]
Rivan Automotive was founded in 2009 as a BEV start-up by Robert Scaringe in Irvine, California, albeit under a different name. Through the investments of Amazon and Ford, Rivian became known to a wider audience, although Ford has since withdrawn its financial participation [1].
In 2022, Rivian sold a total of just under 25,000 vehicles in the US. Compared to competitors such as Tesla or BYD, this number is still relatively low, but is significantly higher than the 1015 vehicles sold in 2021 [2].
In 2023, Rivian plans to double production to approximately 53,000 units, with nearly 23,400 vehicles produced in the first half of 2023 [3].
In 2019, Rivian was contracted by Amazon to develop and produce delivery trucks, with a total of 100,000 vehicles that Amazon plans to take delivery of by 2030.
There are now more than 1000 delivery trucks in use in the U.S., which have already delivered more than 5 million packages to Amazon customers. The order is linked to an exclusivity clause to which Rivian no longer considers itself bound because the number of vehicles ordered is below the agreed number in Rivian’s view [3].
Rivian R1T
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Rivian Automotive, Inc. [Homepage])
Rivian R1S
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Rivian Automotive, Inc. [Homepage])
The delivery truck developed for Amazon is based on a platform – also called skateboard architecture – , on the technological basis of which Rivan has developed two additional vehicle models [4].
The R1T is a typical American pick-up truck (US category: light truck) with a length of about 5.5 m, which can be configured with 3 different battery sizes (105, 135, 180 kWh). All 4 wheels are powered by dedicated wheel-mounted electric motors, and an entry-level version with 2-wheel drive is also planned for 2024.
The retail price currently starts at $87,000, with the 2-motor-only model expected to be priced at $73,000. In the Premium Battery Electric Vehicle category, the R1T won the J.D. Power award for “for (the) most satisfying ownership experience” which is very popular in the US [5].
The R1S is a large SUV about 5 m long that also uses the R1T’s powertrain. It is likely that the R1S will also be exported to Europe once production stabilizes.
Rivian is using 2170 round cells from Samsung SDI, with the battery packs being 2-layered. In the maximum expansion stage, 9 packs are integrated in the battery [6].
Rivian Automotive is listed on the stock exchange, including in Frankfurt (ISIN US76954A1034, WKN A3C47B).
Sources
[1] https://electrek.co/guides/rivian/#h-the-history-of-rivian (Access 29.03.2023)
[2] https://www.elektroauto-news.net/elektroautos/rivian-kommt-bei-der-e-auto-produktion-ins-rollen (Access 29.03.2023)
[3] https://www.electrive.com/2023/08/09/rivian-boosts-sales-profits-over-q2/#:~:text=Rivian%20is%20raising%20its%20production,from%20the%20raised%20annual%20target. (Access 14.09.2023)
[4] https://www.electrive.net/2023/03/14/rivian-will-wohl-amazon-exklusivvertrag-abaendern (Access 29.03.2023)
[5] https://rivian.com/ (Homepage, Access 29.03.2023)
[6] https://rivian.com/newsroom/article/rivian-r1t-earns-highest-satisfaction-ranking-by-jd-power (Access 29.03.2023)
[7] https://insideevs.com/news/592649/munro-rivian-r1t-battery-pack/#:~:text=Rivian%20uses%202170%2Dtype%20cylindrical,in%209%20double%2Dstack%20modules. (Access 29.03.2023)
[cs 29.03.2023]
Seres is a BEV joint-venture of the Chinese joint venture Dongfeng Sokon Motors (DSVK) [1]. Dongfeng is Chinese state-owned enterprise in the automotive sector [2], and Sokon Group is a major Chinese supplier of internal combustion and electric vehicles [3].
Interestingly, Seres was founded in Silicon Valley in 2016, so Seres actually has American roots.
The name Seres is a palindrome, meaning the word can be read from both sides. The name is meant to express perfect symmetry, which is of high importance in Chinese mythology. Here, the letters S, E, and R stand respectively for Silicon Valley, electricity, and range [4].
In 2022, Seres could sell ~80,000 vehicles in the domestic market [5].
The SUV model Seres 3 has also been imported to Germany since 2021, among others via Indimo GmbH [6].
Seres 5 – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of CHONGQING SOKON MOTOR(GROUP)IMP.&EXP.CO.,LTD [Homepage])
Seres 5 – Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of CHONGQING SOKON MOTOR(GROUP)IMP.&EXP.CO.,LTD [Homepage])
The Seres 3 is a compact SUV with a length of 4.4 m, equipped with an LFP battery with a gross capacity of 53 kWh. According to the driving report in the trade magazine “Auto, Motor, Sport”, the vehicle makes a solid and mature impression, although the charging capacity of 6.6 kWh AC (single-phase) and 60 kWh DC is out of date for 2023. The selling price starts at about €37,000, as of 2021, before deducting environmental bonus [7].
A larger SUV called Seres 5 was also presented at the Brussels Motor Show in early 2023, which is also to be available with a semi-solid-state battery from Gangfeng [8].
Sources
[1] http://www.dfsk.com/ (Access 30.03.2023)
[2] https://www.dfm-global.com/ (Access 30.03.2023)
[3] http://en.sokon.com/en/ (Access 30.03.2023)
[4] https://www.global-seres.com/en/about.php (Access 05.06.2023)
[5] https://autonews.gasgoo.com/china_news/70021994.html (Access 02.06.2023)
[6] https://www.indimo.eu/ (Access 30.03.2023)
[7] https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/fahrbericht/dfsk-seres-3-elektro-suv-2021 (Access 30.03.2023)
[8] https://cnevpost.com/2023/02/08/seres-to-launch-seres-5-with-semi-solid-state-battery-2023 (Access 30.03.2023)
[cs 30.03.2023, 05.06.2023]
Attention: The development of the solar car was discontinued at the beginning of 2023, Sono Motors now focuses on automotive solar panels as a supplier.
Sono Motors was founded in 2016 as a solar start-up by Laurin Hahn, Navina Pernsteiner and Jona Christians in Hesse, Germany. The business model was to develop and produce a solar car, similar to Aptera and Lightyear.
Despite a financial rescue campaign in 2022, the budget was not sufficient to start production of the solar car; the original business model was therefore discarded.
Vehicles equipped with solar technology from Sono Motors
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of SONO MOTORS GmbH [Homepage])
The company is now focusing on the production and distribution of its self-developed solar technology for third-party vehicles. According to Sono Motors, there are already 25 customers (Europe and USA) who have installed Sono Motors’ solar panels in their products – including cars, buses, refrigerated vehicles and motor homes.
Sources
[1] https://sonomotors.com/(Access 04.04.2023)
[cs 04.04.2022]
Tesla is a California–based BEV startup founded in 2003 by Martin Eberhard and Marc Tarpenning. One trigger for the startup is said to have been GM’s decision to recall its first battery-electric car, the EV1, against the wishes of the vehicle owners.
As part of the first round of financing, Elon Musk also participated in the company in 2004 and gradually took control; the two founders left Tesla in 2008 [1].
You can read an in-depth article about Elon Musk, his strategy for success and his influence on the automotive industry here.
The first model appeared in 2008 and was a small sporty roadster based on the Lotus Elise. Only 2450 vehicles of this model were built in a small series in England and sold in the USA. Despite the comparatively small number of units, Tesla was able to gain important experience in the field with powertrain components such as the electric motor, power electronics and battery.
In 2012, the Model S, the first model developed entirely in-house, appeared; the luxury sedan surprised experts with its then groundbreaking range of 500 km.
The Model X SUV model followed in 2015. Both models are still produced exclusively at the production facility in Fremont, California, which was taken over from GM and Toyota.
Tesla Model 3
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Pixabay [tesla-5937063__340)
Tesla Model Y
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Tesla, Inc. [Homepage])
Tesla really took off with the Model 3 sedan, even though Elon Musk still described the production ramp-up in 2018 as “production hell”. The Model Y SUV model was then developed based on the drive technology of the Model 3, with production starting in 2020.
Both models are produced at the main plant in Fremont, but Fremont’s production volume is far from sufficient to meet global demand.
Tesla has therefore successively opened additional ones, known as gigafactories, in the triad markets of Asia, North America and Europe. In November 2019, production of Model 3 and Y started in Shangahi, in March 2020 the SOP of Model Y was in Austin/Texas and in March 2022 in Brandenburg/Berlin. Additional production facilities are in the planning stages [2].
In the 2022 global battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales statistics, the Model Y ranked #1 with 674,580 vehicles, followed by the Model 3 at #2 with 411,358 vehicles [3].
Other models from Tesla are close to first delivery, such as a tractor for heavy-duty trucks according to U.S. weight class 8 (15-36.2 t). A low-cost BEV model or €25,000 is also being planned, to be built in a yet-to-be-built factory in Mexico [4].
For the HV battery, initially used round cells with different formats and cell chemistry variants. The S and X models will use 18650 cells, and the 3 and Y models will use 2170 cells from Panasanic. The Chinese plant in Shanghai is supplied with cells from LG Energy Solution, which are also produced directly in China.
The switch to the even larger round cells in 4680 format is planned, but apparently these cannot yet be produced in sufficient quantities Meanwhile, Tesla also uses prismatic cells from CATL for the basic Model 3 and Y variants produced in Shanghai [5].
Panasonic’s cells use NCA as the cell chemistry, LG uses a classic NCM compound as the cathode material, while CATL’s prismatic cells use an LFP chemistry.
Tesla was the first BEV manufacturer to quite consistently build its own charging network since 2012, and 40,000 so-called Superchargers are now said to be available worldwide.
Tesla is listed on the stock exchange, including in Frankfurt (ISIN US88160R1014, WKN A1CX3T).
Sources
[1] https://www.nau.ch/news/wirtschaft/tesla-die-geschichte-des-elektroauto-giganten-65921960 (Access 11.04.2023)
[2] https://teslawissen.ch/wo-baut-tesla-seine-fahrzeuge-tesla-werke-weltweit/#:~:text=Fremont%2C%20USA%20%E2%80%93%20Kalifornien&text=Es%20ist%20aktuell%20die%20einzige,auch%20das%20Model%20Y%20dazu.
[3] https://www.enbw.com/blog/elektromobilitaet/trends/verkaufszahlen-e-autos-das-sind-die-meistverkauften-stromer-2022 (Access 11.04.2023)
[4] https://cleantechnica.com/2023/04/05/tesla-plans-to-manufacture-4-million-less-expensive-electric-cars-each-year (Access 11.04.2023)
[5] https://insideevs.com/news/587455/batteries-tesla-using-electric-cars (Access 14.04.2023)
[cs 14.04.2023]
Togg Auto is a so-called New-Country start-up new-country start-up, i.e. a start-up from a country without its own pass car industry or pass car brands. Togg Auto was founded in 2018 by Anadolu Group, BMC, Kök Group, Turkcell and Zorlu, among others, on the initiative of President Erdoğan. The name in Turkish stands for Türkiye’nin Otomobili Girişim Grubu, which can be translated as “Turkish Automotive Joint Venture Group” [1].
Togg Model T10X – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Türkiye’nin Otomobili Girişim Grubu Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş [Homepage])
Togg Model T10X – Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Türkiye’nin Otomobili Girişim Grubu Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş [Homepage])
The first model Togg Auto has developed is a mid-size SUV called T10X, with the design coming from Pininfarina. The battery is configurable in 2 sizes, namely 52.4 kWh and 88.5 kWh, and the WLTP range is 314 km and 523 km, respectively. The charging power is 150 kW DC or 22 kW AC [2].
The vehicle has already been available for reservation via the Togg homepage since March 16, 2023, and ~177,500 vehicles have already been pre-ordered within 12 days [3].
For cell and battery production, Togg has established the battery joint venture Siro together with Farasis. Siro produces classic NMC cells in pouch format [4].
Sources
[1] https://www.togg.com.tr/ (Homepage, Access 05.04.2023)
[2] https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/elektroauto/tuerkei-elektroauto-togg-suv-t10x-limousine (Access 05.04.2023)
[3] https://insideevs.de/news/659860/togg-t10x-175000-vorbestellungen-elektroauto (Access 05.04.2023)
[4] http://siro.energy/ (Access 05.04.2023)
[cs 05.04.2023]
Vinfast is a Vietnamese New-Country start-up for passenger cars and electric motorcycles. Vinfast was founded in 2017 by Pham Nhat Vuong in Hai Phong [1].
Mr. Pham Nhat Vuong was previously very successful in Ukraine in the food industry and then built the conglomerate Vingroup in Vietnam; business areas include education, health and tourism.
Vinfast’s corporate history is closely linked to German suppliers, thanks mainly to former BMW manager Quang-Hue Vo and his good contacts in the German automotive industry [2].
Vinfast initially began producing internal combustion vehicles with BMW technology; the company now develops its own battery-electric SUV models, canonically named VF6, VF7, VF8, and VF9, covering different market segments.
Vinfast model VF8
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of VinFast Germany GmbH [Homepage])
Vinfast model VF9
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of VinFast Germany GmbH [Homepage])
The two larger models VF7 and VF8 are soon to be exported to Germany.
The sporty VF7 has a length of just under 4.8 m, a battery capacity of 87.7 kWh and a WLTP range of 471 km. The larger VF8 is designed as a 7-seater and, with its length of 5.1 m, even surpasses the Mercedes GLE; the battery has a capacity of 123 kWh, which should enable a WLTP range of 594 km.
Originally, sales in Germany were to start as early as 2022, but this has since been postponed to 2023. According to Manager Magazin, the vehicles have not even been approved for the German market yet, and there are also quality problems in the home market of Vietnam as well as in the USA, which have necessitated recalls [3].
For battery and cell production, Vingroup 2021 has founded its own subsidiary called VinES. For cell production, VinES cooperates with Chinese cell manufacturer and VW partner Gotion [4].
In November 2022, the foundation stone was laid for the first LFP production facility in Vietnam [5].
In addition, there is a cooperation with Taiwanese cell supplier ProLogium in the field of solid state cells [6].
Sources
[1] https://vinfastauto.eu (Homepage, Access 07.04.2023)
[2] https://www.handelsblatt.com/unternehmen/industrie/marke-vinfast-startet-wie-die-deutsche-wirtschaft-vietnam-ein-auto-baut/23125950.html (Access 07.04.2023)
[3] https://www.manager-magazin.de/unternehmen/autoindustrie/vinfast-autos-gesucht-der-chaotische-deutschland-start-des-vietnamesischen-auto-start-ups… (Access 07.04.2023)
[4] https://vines.net.vn (Access 07.04.2023)
[5] https://electrek.co/2022/11/18/vinfasts-energy-division-breaks-ground-on-5-gwh-year-battery-factory (Access 07.04.2023)
[6] https://www.bestmag.co.uk/vinfast-and-prologium-to-commercialise-solid-state-battery-technology-for-evs (Access 07.04.2023)
Voyah is a new new BEV brand of the Chinese car company Dongfeng, which was only founded in 2021. Dongfeng itself is the second largest state-owned automaker in China.
The first vehicles were delivered in 2021, and nearly 20,000 units were sold in 2022 [1].
The first model is an SUV called Voyah Free, which is comparable to Mercedes-Benz’s EQE SUV with a length of 4.9 meters. In China, the Yoyah Free is offered with 3 powertrain options; among them is a model with a range extender, which incorporates a battery with a capacity of 33 kWh, providing an electric range of 140 km (NEDC).
The BEV models have an 88 kWh battery and are available as all-wheel drive with 475 km NEDC range or as 2-wheel drive with 595 km range [2].
At the IAA 2023, the Voyah Free were presented for the first time at a car show in Germany [3].
Voyah Free – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of NOYO Mobility AG [Homepage])
Voyah Free – Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of NOYO Mobility AG [Homepage])
Dongfeng has now received a type approval from the EU for the Voyah Free, which means that the vehicle may be exported to 27 countries in the European Union as well as to Norway, Switzerland and Israel [4].
At the beginning of 2023, the first 136 vehicles were delivered to the “electric car pioneer country” Norway, with other countries such as Denmark, Israel, the Netherlands and Sweden to follow in 2023 [5].
Test drives can already be requested on Voyah’s Swiss website [6].
According to an online presentation from 2022, Voyah and Dongfeng belongs to the customer base of Farasis Energy, i.e. in the Voyah Free, Pouch cells from Farasis are very likely to be installed.
Sources
[1] https://autonews.gasgoo.com/china_news/70021989.html (Access 02.08.2023)
[2] http://www.dongfeng-global.com/ (Access 10.04.2023)
[3] https://www.golem.de/news/bilanz-der-iaa-2023-alles-china-oder-was-2309-177492.html (Access 15.09.2023)
[4] https://www.chinapev.com/ev-2/voyah/dongfengs-ev-brand-voyah-free-has-obtained-eu-vehicle-certification (Access 10.04.2023)
[5] https://www.electrive.net/2023/01/03/voyah-liefert-erste-elektroautos-in-norwegen-aus (Access 10.04.2023)
[6] https://www.voyah.ch/ (Zugriff 15.09.2023)
[cs 10.04.2023, 02.08.2023, 15.09.2023]
The electronics company Xiamoi is planning to enter the automotive industry with its new BEV brand, this was already officially announced by the Chinese smartphone manufacturer in 2021.
In total, $10 billion is to be invested in the coming years, and 4 BEV models are to be developed in the medium term [1].
Xiaomoi MS 11
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of Weibo.com/Xiaomi)
The first model is an MS 11 sedan, the entry-level variant of which has a 400-volt architecture and is equipped with an LFP battery from BYD. The premium variant operates with 800 volts, and a Qilin battery from CATL is installed here.
Official press photos do not exist yet, but photos have already surfaced on Chinese social media showing a sedan in the style of a Tesla Model 3 or Xpeng P7. The model is to be unveiled in 2023, and the sales release is planned for 2024.
Xiaomi is listed on the stock exchange, among others in Frankfurt (ISIN KYG9830T1067, WKN A2JNY1).
Sources
[1] https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/neuheiten/xiaomi-will-elektroautos-bauen/ (Access 22.05.2023)
[cs 22.05.2023]
Xpeng is a Chinese BEV start-up founded in 2014 by He Xiaopeng. The company’s name is also derived from the founder’s last name. Previously, Mr. Xiaopeng had very successfully built up the Chinese Internet service provider UCWeb, this company he sold to Alibaba in 2014 for $4.3 billion.
In 2014, Mr. Xiaopeng was one of the first Chinese to receive a Tesla Model S. The vehicle is said to have impressed him so much that he decided to enter the automotive industry himself. Through his good industrial contacts, he managed to attract Alibaba as well as other Chinese companies such as Foxxcon as investors [1].
The first model to be unveiled was the G3 SUV at CES in Las Vegas in 2018, followed by the presentation of the P7 sedan in 2019 and the slightly smaller P5 sedan in 2021. In total, Xpeng was able to sell ~120,750 vehicles in 2022, with the P7 having a share of just under 50%.
Thus, Xpeng plays in the same league as NIO, but is still clearly behind BYD or Tesla in terms of units sold.
XPeng P9 – Exterieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of XPeng Inc. [Homepage])
XPeng G9 – Interieur
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of XPeng Inc. [Homepage])
In July 2023, the news about a strategic cooperation between VW and Xpeng, which also includes a financial participation of VW in Xpeng with just under 5%, caused a sensation.
On the technological basis of the Xpeng G9 (SUV), 2 BEV vehicles are to be developed in the Chinese B segment (wheelbase 2.7 – 2.9 m, not identical to the EU B segment), which are to be produced under the VW brand for the Chinese market from 2026. This will involve the use of the powertrain, assistance systems, electronics platform and, in particular, software from Xpeng [2].
The P7 and G9 models have also been offered in Europe since the beginning of 2023, in Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands and Sweden [3].
In September 2023, Xpeng announced at the IAA that it would also export the P7 and G9 models to Germany from 2024 [4].
In terms of a 2nd source strategy, Xpeng purchases cells from different suppliers, namely CABL, CATL and SVolt.
There is a development cooperation with Sunwoda, here the focus is on the development of fast-charging cells [5].
Xpeng is listed on the stock exchange, among others in Frankfurt (ISIN HK0000264595, WKN A14Y51).
Sources
[1] https://www.bolidenforum.de/artikel/allgemein/2575558-die-geschichte-des-elektroautoherstellers-xpeng (Access 14.04.2023)
[2] https://ir.xiaopeng.com/news-releases/news-release-details/xpeng-and-volkswagen-group-announce-entry-framework-agreement (Access 03.08.2023)
[3] https://www.electrive.net/2023/03/17/2022er-bilanz-xpeng-schwaechelt-im-jahresverlauf (Access 14.04.2023)
[4] https://www.heyxpeng.com/de/g9 (Access 15.09.2023)
[5] https://cnevpost.com/2022/10/21/xpeng-adds-svolt-energy-as-its-new-battery-supplier (Access 14.04.2023)
[cs 14.04.2023, 15.09.2023]
Zeekr is a new new BEV brand of the Geely Group, established in March 2021. As an answer to Tesla and NIO, Zeekr is to focus on premium electric vehicles in the multi-brand group.
In total, Zeekr already sold close to 72,000 vehicles in 2022, which can be considered quite remarkable for a sales start in October 2021 [1].
In 2023, the export to Europe was started. Since June 2023, the 001 (Shooting Break) and X (SUV) models can be ordered in the Netherlands and Sweden, followed by Germany, Norway, Denmark and France [2].
Zeekr 001
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of ZEEKR EU B.V. [Press])
Zeekr X
(Mit freundlicher Genehmigung/Courtesy of ZEEKR EU B.V. [Press])
The first model, the Zeekr 001, was unveiled in spring 2021. Surprisingly, it was not an SUV for once, but a very sporty 4-door station wagon with a coupe-like rear.
The design is reminiscent of a Porsche Tycan Shooting Brake, and the length of just under 5 m also matches that of the Porsche. There are 3 battery sizes available, namely 86 kWh, 100 kWh and also 140 kWh, the ranges of 546 km. 741 km and even 1000 km range according to CLTC cycle, respectively [3].
The 2nd model was presented to the public in August 2022. The Zeekr 009 is a combination of VAN and SUV, has 3 rows of seats and is 5.2 m long, the same length as a Mercedes GLS. Vehicles in this category are referred to as multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) in China, and the boxy design with the very dominant front end is rather out of keeping with European tastes.
Technologically, both models are based on Geely’s so-called Sustainable Platform Architecture (SPA), which enables vehicle bodies from the A to the F segment (EU definition) [4].
The cell supplier is CATL. Zeekr claims to be the first manufacturer to use CATL’s cell-to-pack technology.
An IPO of Zeekr is in preparation.
Sources
[1] https://www.elektroauto-news.net/elektroautos/betrachtung-tesla-byd-nio-xpeng-zeekr-im-jahr-2022#:~:text=Der%20Blick%20auf%20Geelys%20Premium,6.007%20Auslieferungen%20im%20Jahr%202021. (Access 15.04.2023)
[2] https://www.zeekr.eu/de-de (Access 15.09.2023)
[3] https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/elektroauto/geely-premium-e-autos-zeekr-001 (Access 15.04.2023)
[4] https://insideevs.de/news/515219/geely-plattform-sea-funf-versionen (Access 15.04.2023)
[cs 16.04.2023, 15.09.2023]