ZF, Honda, GAC Aion, Didi, Leapmotor, Valeo and more

German supplier ZF has introduced its newly developed electric range extender system. This compact unit combines generator and drive modes in a single electric drivetrain and is slated for production in the first half of next year.

Three standout features set it apart: all-wheel drive with extended range that doesn’t require a second powertrain, a highly compact design that eases integration into the engine bay, and the ability for both electric and combustion components to operate with high efficiency — either for propulsion or electricity generation.

Honda has launched two new electric models in its Ye-Series: the Dongfeng Honda GT and the GAC Honda GT. Both vehicles are built on a newly developed EV platform with battery cells integrated directly into the body structure — a result of collaboration with battery giant CATL.

The two companies also plan to co-develop a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery for future Ye models. In the area of driver assistance, Honda is partnering with Momenta, which uses AI in place of high-definition maps for vehicle guidance. For infotainment, Honda will integrate software from DeepSeek across all upcoming Ye models.

Chinese EV maker GAC Aion and mobility provider Didi have revealed their co-developed robotaxi. Based on the Aion V platform, the vehicle features 33 sensors, including ten LiDAR units — four of them long-range, capable of detecting objects up to 200 meters away, and six short-range units for full 360-degree coverage as close as 10 centimeters.

Next-gen radar chips enable the vehicle’s new 4D radar system to deliver four times the performance of previous versions, especially in rain, snow, or fog. Infrared cameras enhance pedestrian detection in low light.

The Level 4 robotaxi also includes “Orca,” Didi’s proprietary high-performance central computing platform. According to Didi, it’s the first of its kind ready for mass production and integrates three domains: autonomous driving, in-cabin intelligence, and communication/navigation.

The rollout will begin in select regions of Guangzhou and Beijing in 2026, with a Level 4 consumer vehicle targeted for launch by 2027.

Chinese EV manufacturer Leapmotor has introduced its new electric sedan, the B01 — aimed at young, tech-savvy drivers. Built on the LEAP 3.5 platform with 800-volt architecture, the B01 will be available in two power levels: 132 kW and 160 kW.

Two battery options are planned: 56.2 kWh (up to 510 kilometers/317 miles range) and 67.1 kWh (up to 600 kilometers/373 miles range), both based on the Chinese CLTC test cycle.

Valeo and Chinese startup Pangood have co-developed an axial flux generator specifically designed for electric vehicles. The generator stands out for its compact design and high power density, promising greater efficiency and space savings compared to traditional radial flux generators.

Thanks to improved cooling and energy output, the unit is well-suited for a range of EV types and is intended to optimize energy recovery during driving.

US-based EV startup Slate Auto — backed by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos — has announced a new minimalist electric pickup set to hit the market by late 2026. The two-seat “Slate Truck” is designed for maximum customization.

Buyers will be able to choose between two battery sizes: 52.7 kWh (approx. 150 miles range) and 84.3 kWh (approx. 240 miles range) under US testing standards. The vehicle will feature a modular body that can be retrofitted — with kits available to convert it into a five-seat SUV, among other options.

Ionity, the European high-speed charging joint venture, plans to introduce Alpitronic’s HYC1000 megawatt charging system in the second half of 2025. Although the system uses the term “megawatt,” it’s designed specifically for electric cars — not MCS (Megawatt Charging System) for trucks.

The HYC1000 will deliver power from a central cabinet to up to four dispensers, each supporting two charging points — meaning up to eight EVs can charge simultaneously. Power will be distributed dynamically, with a maximum output of 600 kW per vehicle.

Device validation will begin in May 2025 at Ionity’s test site in Unterschleißheim near Munich. If successful, the rollout will expand across Ionity’s European network.