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CATL to Begin Mass Production of Sodium-Ion Batteries in 2026

Contemporary Amperex Technology Co Limited (CATL) has confirmed that it will begin large-scale production of its next-generation sodium-ion batteries next year. The new cells are designed to deliver a driving range of around 500 kilometres while being cheaper to manufacture and less damaging to the environment.

Unlike conventional lithium-based batteries, the new technology relies on sodium, an abundant material that is easier to extract. CATL has not yet disclosed which car manufacturer will be the first to adopt the batteries.

The company highlights several advantages of the sodium-ion technology. Production costs are lower, the carbon footprint is reduced, and the batteries are classified as more environmentally friendly. They are also capable of both fast charging and rapid discharging, while offering stable performance in a wide range of conditions. Importantly, sodium-ion batteries are considered safer than current mainstream chemistries.

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Porsche Previews the Cayenne Electric Interior Ahead of Global Debut

The upcoming Porsche Cayenne Electric, scheduled to debut at the end of 2025, introduces a new interior concept that emphasises comfort, digital functionality, and personalisation. At the centre of this update is the Flow Display, the largest screen ever fitted to a Porsche, integrated into a cabin designed to merge sport-focused design with advanced digital systems.

According to Markus Auerbach, Director Interior Design at Style Porsche, the goal was to combine traditional Cayenne design cues with Porsche’s new “Digital Interaction” approach. The Flow Display, a curved OLED panel, forms the basis of this system, offering a clean, seamless interface for vehicle controls and infotainment. Alongside this, new features such as electrically adjustable rear seats, heating for surfaces like armrests and door panels, and customisable Mood Modes expand the model’s scope of comfort and usability.

All passengers benefit from increased cabin space and new comfort options. The standard-fit electrically adjustable rear seats can switch between comfort and cargo positions, while Mood Modes adjust interior light, sound, climate, and seating settings for relaxation or focus. A panoramic roof with Variable Light Control adds further versatility: its glass surface, the largest ever installed in a Porsche, can transition between clear, matte, or two semi-transparent settings.

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Chery Launches Exeed Yaoguang C-DM Global Edition in China, Prices Start from RM90k

Chery has pulled the covers off the Exeed Yaoguang C-DM Global Edition in China, an SUV that blends familiar design with significant updates to its hybrid powertrain.

Available in three trims, the model has been priced from 139,900 yuan, which works out to roughly RM90,800, while the top-spec version climbs to 189,900 yuan or around RM123,300. Positioned as a “Global Edition”, the new model is clearly intended for export, signalling Chery’s ambition to push its premium Exeed line further into international markets.

On the outside, the Yaoguang retains much of the bold character of its predecessor, but with subtle enhancements. The full-width LED light bar across the nose remains, now joined by vertical light strips at either side to emphasise the SUV’s stance.

A new dual-tone exterior option has been added, giving buyers a sharper, more distinctive look. At the rear, the through-type taillights are still in place, but with the addition of black trim and twin exhaust outlets that lend the SUV a sportier finish. Dimensionally, the Global Edition continues with a length of 4,781 mm, width of 1,920 mm, height of 1,671 mm, and a wheelbase of 2,815 mm, while curb weight varies between 1,913 and 2,171 kg depending on specification.

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2026 Tank 400 Plug-in Hybrid SUV Lands in China with Tech Upgrades and Fresh Powertrain Option

The Tank 400 plug-in hybrid SUV has just rolled out in updated form and is already being showcased in 178 cities across China. Great Wall Motor’s rugged off-roader hasn’t abandoned its mechanical presence, but for 2026 it comes with some notable tweaks in styling, technology, and powertrain choices that should make it even more appealing to buyers.

On the outside, the SUV retains its squared-off, muscular look but gains subtle detail changes. The most eye-catching is a new colour option called Dunhuang Purple, which gives the big SUV a more distinctive presence.

The front bumper has been reworked with black mesh elements that sharpen its bold stance, while at the back, the once-prominent external spare tyre guard has been deleted. The badge arrangement has also been revised, with the “GWM” lettering now positioned at the centre of the tailgate.

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Zeekr 9X PHEV SUV Debuts in China with 1,381hp and Up to 1,250km Range

Geely’s premium brand Zeekr has unveiled its latest flagship, the Zeekr 9X, in China—a full-size plug-in hybrid SUV packing some jaw-dropping numbers. Launched on September 29, the 9X comes with as much as 1,381hp, advanced air suspension, and a claimed mixed driving range of up to 1,250km.

The reception has been explosive: during its presale, the brand racked up more than 42,000 orders within the first hour.

For context, Zeekr was introduced in 2021 as Geely’s luxury battery-electric brand, but this year marks a big pivot. The company has shifted its strategy to include plug-in hybrids, with the 9X being the first of its kind. Positioned as a halo model, it shows how seriously Zeekr intends to compete in the high-end SUV space.

Measuring 5,239mm long, 2,029mm wide and 1,819mm tall, with a wheelbase of 3,169mm, the 9X is actually longer and wider than a Mercedes-Benz GLS. The design follows current Chinese luxury trends with C-shaped LED headlights, a bold grille, and active air intake shutters.

At the back, there’s a large circular taillight unit, and the SUV sits on 22-inch alloys available in different designs. Buyers can choose from five exterior colours: black, white, silver, grey and purple.

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Could Malaysia See a 2026 Toyota Hilux with Standard 2.8-L Turbo-Diesel and Mild-Hybrid?

The Toyota Hilux has long been a familiar sight on Malaysian roads, whether it’s serving as a rugged workhorse for businesses or doubling as a reliable family and lifestyle truck. Toyota Malaysia markets it with the usual emphasis on toughness, durability, and a servicing network that stretches across the country—qualities that explain why it continues to be one of the best-selling pickups in the market.

But if recent leaks from Australia are anything to go by, the next-generation Hilux due in 2026 could be very different from what Malaysians are used to. Documents filed for homologation reveal changes that point to a more powerful and tech-laden truck, though they may come with higher costs and fewer body style options.

According to Drive, the filings, listed under new “GUN2” model codes (the current Hilux runs under “GUN1”), suggest a major reshuffle in the powertrain line-up. Central to this is the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, which could become the standard across the range.

In contrast, the 2.7-litre petrol engine looks set to be dropped, particularly from the lower trims. Another notable omission could be the extra-cab body style, leaving buyers with only single-cab and double-cab choices.

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Toyota and Mazda Reportedly Teaming Up on Next-Generation MX-5 and GR86

Japan’s leading car magazine Best Car has reported that Toyota and Mazda may be co-developing the next generation of the Mazda MX-5 and Toyota GR86. If true, the collaboration would mark a major shift in Toyota’s sports car strategy and ensure the continued future of two of the world’s best-known affordable performance cars.

Toyota and Mazda first entered into a formal partnership in 2015, later strengthening it into a capital alliance in 2017. Beyond vehicle supply arrangements, the two companies have collaborated on electric vehicles and software-defined vehicle development.

Best Car’s October issue notes that the close ties between Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda and Mazda President Masahiro Moro have helped strengthen the relationship. Both executives are long-time drivers with experience in competitive racing, which has shaped their shared perspective on building sports cars.

The MX-5 holds a unique position in the global car industry. Since its introduction in 1989, it has been the world’s best-selling roadster and a catalyst for other two-seat sports cars such as the Porsche Boxster, BMW Z3, and Audi TT. Meanwhile, the GR86 has carried Toyota’s reputation in the affordable sports coupe segment, originally developed in partnership with Subaru.

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China to Impose Export Controls on EVs from 2026

China has confirmed it will be placing export controls on pure electric passenger cars from 1 January 2026, a move aimed at bringing order to an increasingly chaotic EV market at home while addressing rising criticism abroad.

The announcement came jointly from the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the customs administration and the market regulator. Officials explained that the measure is intended to ensure the “healthy development” of the new energy vehicle trade. Under the new system, EV exports will require a licence, issued in line with rules first introduced back in 2012. Cars will also have to undergo customs inspection before leaving the country.

China’s EV makers have been leaning heavily on overseas sales as domestic competition intensifies. Companies like BYD have ramped up exports sharply, with the brand reporting that shipments of new energy vehicles in August were two and a half times higher compared to the same month last year. For Chinese carmakers, foreign markets have become a vital lifeline.

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Nissan and Dongfeng Pump RM676 Million into New Off-Road SUV Venture

Nissan is strengthening its position in China’s SUV market with a fresh collaboration alongside Dongfeng Motor Group. Together, they will be investing around RM676 million into a new company dedicated to building and selling off-road SUVs.

According to details released, Dongfeng Motor will take the largest share at 40%, while Dongfeng Nissan – the existing 50:50 joint venture between the two companies – will secure roughly 10%. Two other companies based in Xiangyang, Hubei province, are also set to participate. The agreement will run for 20 years, although the new firm’s official name and the timing for its first product launches remain under wraps.

Dongfeng Nissan’s share of the contribution is expected to come mostly in the form of assets rather than cash. This includes dies, production lines, and other equipment, along with development systems and intangible resources. There is also the possibility that Dongfeng Nissan could play a direct role in vehicle production once the new company is operational.

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Chery Teases All-New Tiggo 8 SUV Ahead of Q4 Launch in China

Chery has pulled the covers off the official images of its all-new Tiggo 8, a mid-size SUV aimed squarely at family buyers. Bigger and more refined than the current Tiggo 8, the new model adopts a fresh design language, offers a five-seat layout, and is set for its official debut in the fourth quarter of this year.

The Tiggo 8 nameplate has been a core part of Chery’s line-up, and the family already includes five different variants in China – the Tiggo 8 Plus, Tiggo 8L, Tiggo 8 Zhuoyue Edition (Excellence), the 2025 Tiggo 8 Pro, and the Tiggo 8 Plus CD-M. Demand for the SUV remains strong, with Chery shifting 15,695 units in August alone.

For the upcoming model, buyers will get the choice of two distinct front-end styles. One mirrors the Tiggo 8 Plus, pairing split headlamps with a polygonal X-matrix grille.

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