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1. Mercedes-Benz Unveils Details of New MMA Platform

Mercedes-Benz AG has released information on its upcoming Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA) platform. The platform’s electric drive unit (EDU 2.0), showcased in the Concept CLA Class at IAA MOBILITY 2023, represents the next generation of electric drivetrains. It is designed to achieve a range of over 750 kilometers and features a cutting-edge 800-volt electric architecture. This setup enables high-power DC charging at up to 320 kW, offering a range boost of up to 300 kilometers in just 10 minutes.

Buyers can choose between two battery chemistries, including a top-tier version with 85 kWh of usable energy and silicon-oxide-enhanced graphite anodes. A prototype CLA model has already demonstrated impressive performance, covering 3,717 kilometers in 24 hours at Nardò, Italy. Shortly after the release of its all-electric models, Mercedes plans to introduce a hybrid CLA featuring 48-volt technology and an electric motor delivering up to 20 kW of power.

2. Xiaomi Debuts 2,000-Horsepower Electric Motor and Intelligent Suspension

小米科技 unveiled a groundbreaking electric motor system featuring four motors, delivering a combined output of 1,511 kW (over 2,000 horsepower). The system allows precise torque control and enables the vehicle to pivot in place. Additionally, Xiaomi plans to integrate an active suspension system with seven dampers to enhance comfort and stability. The introduction of a 48-volt system is expected to revolutionize steering and braking by replacing hydraulic components with electromechanical systems, improving energy efficiency and increasing range by up to 10 kilometers.

3. Study: E-Bikes Among the Most Popular Workplace Benefits

E-bikes have emerged as one of the most sought-after workplace benefits, ranking second only to additional vacation days, according to a study by the Future Mobility Lab at the University of St.Gallen MBA , Switzerland. Particularly in urban areas, e-bikes are valued as practical and sustainable transportation solutions. The study found that 77% of companies already offer bike-leasing programs, allowing employees to enjoy tax benefits and attractive leasing conditions.

4. EHang Conducts Passenger Test Flights in Thailand

EHang (NASDAQ: EH) successfully conducted test flights of its EH216-S pilotless eVTOL in Bangkok. With vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, the EH216-S is designed for urban centers and tourist destinations. The company plans to launch commercial flights in 2025. Beyond Thailand, EHang is developing high-performance electric motors in partnership with Zhuhai Enpower Electric and recently opened a new vertiport in China. EHang remains the only company with type certification for eVTOL aircraft.

5.BMW Starts Pre-Production of “Neue Klasse” in Hungary

宝马 has begun pre-production of its “Neue Klasse” models at its factory in Debrecen, Hungary. With an annual capacity of 150,000 vehicles, the plant will exclusively produce electric cars. The facility embodies BMW’s “iFactory” strategy, which prioritizes sustainability and digitalization. Full-scale production is slated to start by the end of 2025. The pre-production phase is being used to validate all manufacturing processes under real-world conditions, setting a new standard for future BMW plants worldwide.

6. Stellantis Introduces “STLA Frame” Platform for Pickups and SUVs

Stellantis has unveiled its “STLA Frame” platform, designed for electric and hybrid full-size pickups and large SUVs. The platform supports both 400-volt and 800-volt architectures, enabling DC fast charging at up to 350 kW. The liquid-cooled batteries range from 159 to 200 kWh, offering electric ranges of up to 800 kilometers and, with a range extender, up to 1,100 kilometers. The STLA Frame models boast payload capacities of up to 1.2 tons and towing capabilities of up to 6.3 tons.

?7.GAC Aion UT: Compact EV with Futuristic Design

Chinese automaker GAC Group has introduced the Aion UT, a compact electric SUV targeting urban users. Powered by a 100 kW motor, it offers a top speed of 150 km/h. The Aion UT features a lithium iron phosphate battery, though its capacity has not yet been disclosed. Measuring 4.27 meters in length, the SUV includes a 14.6-inch central touchscreen and AI-based voice control.

8. Hyundai Ioniq 9: Large Electric SUV with 620 km Range

Hyundai Motor Company (?????) has expanded its Ioniq lineup with the Ioniq 9, a full-size electric SUV built on the E-GMP platform. Equipped with a 110.3 kWh battery, it offers a range of up to 620 kilometers and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds. The Ioniq 9 can charge from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes using a fast charger. Hyundai plans to launch the Ioniq 9 in Europe in 2025.

9. Specialized Turbo Tero 5.0 EQ: Versatility Meets Comfort

Specialized Bicycle Components has launched the Turbo Tero 5.0 EQ, an e-bike designed for both rugged terrain and urban commutes. Featuring a motor with 90 Nm of torque and a 710 Wh battery, the bike delivers a range of up to 120 kilometers in Eco mode. The Turbo Tero 5.0 EQ includes a suspension fork for comfort, disc brakes for stability, and advanced features like theft protection via PIN-activated motor locking and a Garmin radar for added safety.

10. Dawn Aerospace Breaks Supersonic Records

Dawn Aerospace has achieved a new milestone in aviation with its Mk-II Aurora rocket-powered experimental aircraft. The plane reached speeds of Mach 1.1 and an altitude of 82,500 feet (25,150 meters). It is the first supersonic aircraft designed and built in New Zealand, setting a record for the fastest ascent to 66,000 feet in just 118.6 seconds. The project aims to achieve Mach 3.5 and an altitude of 100 kilometers, with applications in microgravity research, atmospheric science, and high-speed aviation technologies. Dawn Aerospace believes the Mk-II Aurora lays the foundation for the world’s first operational hypersonic aircraft.

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