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NIO Launches Long-life Battery Solutions and Adjusts BaaS Policy
On March 14, NIO announced a significant long-life power battery solution at its longevity battery strategic communication meeting. The solution, combining intrinsic battery R&D and innovative battery switching operation, aims to solve battery longevity problems, extend the usage life of power batteries, and address the issue of nearly 20 million new energy vehicles facing battery warranty expiration from 2025 to 2032.
Key highlights of the solution include:
Material R&D innovation: Through the control of positive and negative electrode materials of the battery, the NIO team improved the structural stability of the battery cell, reduced the dissolution rate of transition metals, thus significantly enhancing the cycle and calendar life of the battery.Electrolyte optimization: By incorporating a novel dual-salt system and independently synthesized additive material, NIO has achieved a balance among safety, fast charging, and cycle life within the electrode’s internal chemical system.
Battery Health Operations System throughout the entire lifecycle: NIO has established a Battery Health Operations System that operates throughout the battery’s entire lifecycle, enhancing the lifespan of the battery swap system’s power battery through comprehensive monitoring and regulation of factors such as temperature, intensity, and frequency.
Battery Swap Operation Strategy: NIO extends the battery lifespan by dynamically adjusting usage frequency, ensuring each battery operates within the optimal work frequency range.
In addition, NIO announced a comprehensive adjustment to the pricing of its Battery as a Service (BaaS) battery leasing services. According to the new policy, the leasing service fee for standard-range battery packs will be set at 728 yuan per month, whereas for long-range battery packs, it will be 1,128 yuan per month. Meanwhile, the previous monthly battery protection fee of 80 yuan will also be discontinued concurrently.
Apart from the adjustment to battery leasing service fees, NIO has also updated and expanded the exclusive benefits applicable to BaaS users. The new policy states that starting today, BaaS users leasing the standard or long-range battery packs will receive a coupon worth 100 yuan for every paid BaaS bill. This coupon, valid for 5 years and non-transferable, can apply when the BaaS user purchases a new NIO vehicle. All the existing BaaS users, especially those who have already paid their bills, will also enjoy the corresponding benefits as NIO’s expression of gratitude.
NIO also adjusted its BaaS buyout policy. According to the new policy, vehicles invoiced on or after January 1, 2024, will be eligible for buyouts one year following the invoice date, whereas vehicles invoiced before this date can be bought out at a reduced price within the first year. Furthermore, from the second to the fifth year, each paid bill for the standard-range battery can deduct 460 yuan while the long-range battery can deduct 820 yuan. Starting the sixth year, the battery buyout fee will remain equivalent to the buyout price at the end of the fifth year.
From March 14 to May 31, 2024, customers who purchase vehicles using the BaaS plan will enjoy a plethora of promotional benefits. This includes the “Pay 4 Get 1 Free” incentive; for every four successful payments of BaaS bills, customers will receive the next bill free of charge. Additionally, after the vehicle’s delivery, customers will receive 60 complimentary battery swap coupons for use in future battery swap orders, each valid for five years and non-transferable. These promotional activities aim at providing more affordability and convenience to customers, thus further promoting the sustainable development of NIO’s BaaS services.
Quick Review:
NIO’s comprehensive adjustment of its BaaS battery rental service policy this time is to better meet the needs of users, enhance user experience, and promote the sustainable development of BaaS services. By adjusting the battery rental service fee, updating user exclusive rights, adjusting the buyout policy, and launching a limited-time car purchase discount event, NIO provides users with more choices and benefits.
New Porsche Taycan Released
On March 11, the new Porsche Taycan was officially launched, which introduced 7 versions, including sports sedans and Cross Turismo body designs. It is expected to start pre-orders in mid-April.
The new Taycan has optimized the power transmission system, motor, pulse inverter, software, battery, thermal management system, heat pump, energy recovery, and four-wheel drive strategy. All models are standard with adaptive air suspension system, and optionally equipped with Porsche Active Ride suspension system. There are standard features including BOSE surround sound system, heated front seats, wireless charging smartphone tray, etc., as well as a series of advanced driving assistance systems. To better serve the Chinese market, Porsche Communication Management (PCM) also launched a localized app store.
Highlights of the new Porsche Taycan include:
In terms of endurance, the maximum endurance mileage (WLTP) of the new Taycan has reached 693 kilometers.
In terms of performance, the Taycan Turbo GT equipped with the Weissach Package set a fastest lap record of 1:27.87 on the Laguna Seca track in the US for production electric cars, with a system output power of up to 760 kW, and a staggering 0-to-100 km/h acceleration time of 2.2 seconds.
In terms of charging, thanks to its 800V DC charging system, the new Taycan supports fast charging power up to 320 kW, and the total battery capacity has been increased from 93 kWh to 105 kWh.
In terms of appearance, the headlights use high-resolution LED technology, the Porsche logo in the taillight adopts a novel stereoscopic glass design, and the unique Turbonite decoration color provides more personalized exterior and interior choices.
Quick Review:
The new Taycan has significantly improved in terms of endurance mileage, performance, charging technology, and personalized configuration. The data of 693 kilometers of endurance mileage, 952 PS of system output power, and 320 kW of fast charging power are all powerful proof of the high performance of the new Taycan. Furthermore, the fastest lap record set by Taycan Turbo GT on the Laguna Seca track in the US once again demonstrated the outstanding performance of Porsche’s electric cars to the world. In addition, the personalized customization service of the new Taycan will meet the individual needs of young and diverse consumers, which will help enhance the brand’s appeal.### DF Nano 01 Pricing Announced
Dongfeng Automobile Corporation recently unveiled its latest new energy vehicle, the DF Nano 01, which places a premium on intelligent configurations. The vehicle has introduced a variety of high-tech assisting functions such as a frameless door design, fully automatic parking, remote control parking technology, a 540° panoramic viewing system, and a level L2 intelligent driving assistance system.
The DF Nano 01 is available in three configurations: the 330 Plus Smart+ model, the 430 Plus Smart+ model, and the 430 Max Smart+ model, catering to the needs of different consumers. In terms of technical specifications, the DF Nano 01 measures 4,030 mm in length, 1,810 mm in width, 1,570 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,660 mm. It offers a five-seat layout, suitable for small families.
In terms of power, it is equipped with a Mach E ten-in-one electric drive system, its maximum output power is 70 kW, and its peak torque reaches 160 N・m. The top speed can reach 140 km/h. In terms of endurance, it has a maximum range of 430 km, which is suitable for daily commuting and short-to-medium distance travel, and supports both fast and slow charging. In terms of pricing, the price range of the DF Nano 01 is 69,800 to 101,800 yuan, and it also offers a maximum subsidy of 7,000 yuan for car purchase to enhance its market competitiveness.
Quick take:
The DF Nano 01, with its cutting-edge exterior design coupled with a powerful electric drive and intelligent configuration, undoubtedly has certain competitive advantages among vehicles of the same class. In particular, its breakthrough in battery technology and endurance may win it the favor of some consumers.
This article is a translation by AI of a Chinese report from 42HOW. If you have any questions about it, please email bd@42how.com.