Chinese Electric Vehicle Market News

2026 Leapmotor C16: A Fresh Electric SUV Contender

I got a front-row seat to the buzz around the 2026 Leapmotor C16, a mid-size electric SUV that just rolled out in China. This Stellantis-backed rig is gunning for a slice of the crowded Chinese EV market, squaring off against heavyweights like BYD and Xpeng. Measuring 4.91 meters long (that’s 193.3 inches for us Yanks), it’s got the size to haul families comfortably. Priced between 155,800 and 185,800 CNY—roughly €20,000 to €23,800 at today’s exchange rate—it’s a wallet-friendly option with some serious tech chops. Let’s unpack what makes the Leapmotor C16 a contender worth watching.

What is the Leapmotor C16?

The Leapmotor C16 is a 2026 mid-size electric SUV launched in China, boasting a 67.7 kWh LFP battery with a 520 km CLTC range. Powered by a 215 kW motor, it hits 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds. Priced from $21,500, it blends affordability, tech, and style to rival BYD and Xpeng. With a 14.6-inch touchscreen and Level 2+ ADAS, it’s built for tech-savvy drivers. This five-seater’s sleek design and spacious cabin make it a practical yet flashy choice for urban adventurers.

Electric SUV Power and Performance

The Leapmotor C16 doesn’t mess around under the hood—or rather, under the floor. Its rear-mounted electric motor pumps out 215 kW, which translates to a peppy 288 horsepower and 360 Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque. That’s enough to zip from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 6.9 seconds, making it feel lively for a family hauler. The 67.7 kWh LFP battery delivers a CLTC range of 520 km (323 miles), perfect for weekend getaways or city commutes. It’s not Tesla-fast, but for a mid-size electric SUV, it’s got enough grunt to keep things fun.

Tech That Packs a Punch

Step inside the Leapmotor C16, and you’re greeted by a tech fest. A massive 14.6-inch central touchscreen dominates the dash, paired with a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster for that futuristic vibe. The optional 8295 chip juices up the infotainment, making everything from navigation to streaming buttery smooth. Level 2+ ADAS brings adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automated parking—handy for tight city spots. Toss in a 12-speaker audio system, and you’ve got a cabin that’s as entertaining as it is practical.

Affordable Price, Premium Vibes

Here’s where the Leapmotor C16 shines: it’s priced to move. Starting at 155,800 CNY ($21,500 or €20,000), the base trim keeps things budget-friendly without skimping on essentials. Higher trims, topping out at 185,800 CNY ($25,600 or €23,800), pile on luxuries like heated and ventilated seats and a panoramic sunroof. In a market where EVs can easily climb past $40,000, the C16’s value is a breath of fresh air. It’s proof you don’t need to break the bank for a Stellantis-backed EV with serious credentials.

Conclusion

Pros and Cons of the Leapmotor C16

• Pros: Affordable starting price, solid 520 km range, spacious and tech-loaded interior, zippy performance for a family SUV.
• Cons: Limited global availability for now, CLTC range may drop in real-world conditions, base trim misses some premium features.

Final Thoughts

The Leapmotor C16 is a budget-friendly electric SUV that punches above its weight. With a roomy cabin, a 520 km range, and tech that rivals pricier models, it’s a smart pick for families or tech enthusiasts. Whether you’re cruising Shanghai or eyeing a future export, the C16’s mix of value and flair makes it a compelling choice in the Chinese EV market.

The 2026 IM LS7, an all-electric mid-size crossover from IM Motors, a premium EV brand under SAIC, has been unveiled with significant updates, including a new intelligent four-wheel steering system. Launched initially in February 2023, the LS7 aims to bolster its position in China’s competitive EV market with enhanced technology, improved range, and a refreshed design. Here’s a detailed look at the revamped model.

Intelligent Four-Wheel Steering

The standout feature of the 2026 IM LS7 is its intelligent four-wheel steering system, a first for the model. This system enhances maneuverability by allowing the rear wheels to turn up to 5 degrees in the opposite direction of the front wheels at low speeds, reducing the turning radius to 4.8 meters—ideal for tight urban environments. At higher speeds, the rear wheels align with the front wheels for improved stability during lane changes or cornering. The system adapts to various driving scenarios, offering three steering modes: Urban, Standard, and Sport. These can be customized via the vehicle’s settings for a tailored driving experience.

Powertrain and Performance

The refreshed LS7 retains its robust electric powertrain, available in single-motor rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations. The RWD model delivers 340 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque, while the AWD variant boosts output to 558 hp and 535 lb-ft, achieving a 0-60 mph sprint in approximately 4.5 seconds. Both versions use a 90-kWh ternary lithium battery, offering a CLTC range of up to 415 miles for the RWD model and 385 miles for the AWD, a slight improvement over the previous model’s 404 and 375 miles, respectively. Real-world EPA estimates would likely be closer to 330–350 miles.

The LS7 now supports 150 kW DC fast charging, enabling a 10–80% charge in about 25 minutes. A new thermal management system enhances battery performance in cold climates, addressing a common EV pain point.

Exterior and Interior Updates

The 2026 LS7 sports subtle exterior tweaks, including a revised front fascia with sleeker LED headlights and a more sculpted bumper. The aerodynamic profile remains, with a drag coefficient of 0.27, and new 21-inch alloy wheel designs add flair. The side and rear retain the signature floating roof and full-width taillight bar, maintaining its futuristic aesthetic.

Inside, the cabin sees upgraded materials, with premium vegan leather and recycled plastics across all trims. The massive 26.3-inch main touchscreen and 15.5-inch passenger display remain, now powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 chip for faster response times. A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and an updated voice assistant with natural language processing enhance connectivity. The “zero-gravity” front seats, adjustable in 14 directions, and a panoramic sunroof with adjustable opacity elevate comfort. Rear legroom and cargo space (exact figures TBD) remain generous, rivaling competitors like the NIO ES6.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

The LS7’s IM AD suite has been upgraded with a new lidar sensor, 12 cameras, and 5G connectivity for improved semi-autonomous driving. Standard features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The system now supports hands-free highway driving and automated parking in complex scenarios, positioning it against rivals like the Xpeng G9. Over-the-air updates ensure continuous improvements to ADAS and infotainment.

Pricing and Market Position

The 2026 IM LS7 is priced between 299,800 and 399,800 yuan (approximately $41,000–$55,000 USD), slightly higher than its predecessor due to the added tech. This pits it against the BYD Yangwang U7, NIO ES6, and Zeekr 001 in China’s premium EV segment. While IM Motors focuses on the Chinese market, whispers of global expansion (potentially to Europe) persist, though no concrete plans have been confirmed.

Pros

• Intelligent four-wheel steering enhances agility and stability
• Improved range (up to 415 miles CLTC)
• Faster 150 kW charging
• Luxurious, tech-packed interior
• Advanced ADAS with lidar and 5G
• Competitive pricing for the segment

Cons

• Limited global availability (China-focused)
• EPA range may fall short of CLTC estimates
• Faces fierce competition from NIO, Xpeng, and BYD
• Incremental exterior updates may not excite all buyers

Verdict

The 2026 IM LS7 builds on its predecessor’s strengths with a smarter four-wheel steering system, longer range, and cutting-edge tech, making it a formidable player in China’s premium EV crossover market. Its blend of performance, luxury, and advanced driver aids positions it as a strong alternative to NIO and Xpeng offerings. However, its China-centric availability limits its global impact, and real-world range may not fully match CLTC claims. For Chinese buyers seeking a high-tech, stylish EV, the refreshed LS7 is a compelling choice when it hits showrooms in July 2025.

   Chinese tech company Kuickwheel has launched the Skyrider X6, a revolutionary amphibious flying motorcycle developed by its Rictor division. Available for pre-order on JD.com for 498,800 yuan (approximately $69,000 USD), the X6 combines ground and air mobility for short-range commuting and emergency transport.

                                                Features and Performance

        The Skyrider X6 is a reverse trike with a dual-mode design. On the ground, it’s powered by an electric motor, reaching speeds of 70 km/h with a 200 km range (CLTC standard). In flight, its 6-axis, 6-rotor electric propulsion system achieves 72 km/h and a 20-minute flight duration. The vehicle’s lightweight construction uses carbon fiber and aviation-grade aluminum alloy. It offers automated takeoff, landing, and route planning, with a joystick for manual control.

                                                Safety and Reliability

      Safety features include redundant propulsion and control systems, with independent rotor motors ensuring operation during single-motor failure. The flight control unit has backup logic for stability, and a ballistic parachute deploys automatically in emergencies.

                                               Battery and Charging

                        The X6’s 10.5 kWh battery supports DC fast charging, fully charging in about one hour, making it practical for urban use.

                                               Background: Skyrider X1

      Kuickwheel previously showcased the Skyrider X1 at CES 2025, featuring retractable wheels and a four-axis, eight-rotor system. It comes in two variants:

• X1 SL: 10.5 kWh semi-solid battery, 25-minute flight time.
• X1 SX: 21 kWh battery, up to 40 minutes or 50 km range.

     The X1 supports 50 kW fast charging (80% in 30 minutes) and includes a triple-redundant flight controller, a 0.3-second emergency parachute, and real-time battery monitoring.

                                               Market Context and Challenges

      Kuickwheel claims aerial commuting could cut travel times significantly, such as reducing a 90-minute car trip in Shanghai to 15 minutes by air. Operating costs are approximately 3 yuan ($0.41 USD) per km in flight mode, with annual maintenance costs of 20,000–30,000 yuan ($2,800–$4,200 USD). However, China’s civilian low-altitude airspace (below 200 meters) remains restricted, and operating the Skyrider requires a light sport aircraft license, costing around 50,000 yuan ($6,900 USD) for training. The X6 competes with XPeng AeroHT’s flying car, priced at 1.2 million yuan ($166,000 USD).

                                              Conclusion

The Skyrider X6 is an innovative step in urban mobility, blending advanced technology with practical design. While regulatory hurdles and licensing costs pose challenges, its competitive pricing and versatile features make it a compelling option for early adopters and emergency services.

    While Tesla and major carmakers chased better batteries, longer ranges, and faster charging, BYD quietly crafted a game-changer: the BYD B7 electric bus. Unveiled in 2025, this isn’t just a bus—it’s a revolution in public transport, redefining sustainable energy and smart cities.

    Silently rising from Shenzhen, China, BYD, a battery expert, flipped the EV world upside down. In 2013, Elon Musk laughed at BYD’s potential, but by 2024, BYD sold 4.27 million vehicles (EVs and hybrids) to Tesla’s 1.79 million, soaring 60% in early 2025 while Tesla dropped 13%. Affordable cars, 15% cheaper than Tesla’s, fueled global growth—outselling Tesla in Italy, Spain, and beyond.

    The B7 is the star: a 250-mile range from its safe, eco-friendly Blade Battery (lithium iron phosphate) and a 2025 Super E-Platform that adds 250 miles in 5 minutes—faster than Tesla’s 200 miles in 15. Its electric powertrain delivers instant torque, zero emissions, and a quiet, comfy ride with spacious seats, climate control, and Wi-Fi. Smart tech—lane-keeping, adaptive cruise, and real-time route optimization—makes it safer and efficient.

    BYD’s edge? They make their own batteries, motors, and chips, cutting costs 15% below Tesla’s, per a 2023 UBS report. Cities like Shenzhen, now fully electric, and London, Amsterdam, and Latin America love the B7’s low running costs and reliability. In 2025, Europe deliveries jumped 20%. The electric bus market, $17 billion in 2024, is set to hit $37.5 billion by 2030, with BYD leading.

    The B7 isn’t just a bus—it’s a vision of clean, smart transit, challenging diesel giants and Tesla’s car focus. BYD’s hybrid buses, with SuperDM tech, blend electric (70 km zero-emission) and fuel efficiency (6 L/100 km), reaching 1,000+ km range. High-efficiency motors, a 43.04% thermal-efficient engine, and the Blade Battery save money and cut emissions, winning in Colombia and beyond.

    Despite U.S. tariffs, BYD builds factories and partnerships worldwide. The B7 and BYD’s grit—backed by $250 million from Warren Buffett in 2009—push a greener future, with 2024 revenue at $107 billion topping Tesla’s $97.7 billion. The B7 proves innovation isn’t just from Silicon Valley—it’s from Shenzhen, transforming urban travel one ride at a time.

The BYD Yangwang U9 is a 1,300 HP electric hypercar with quad motors, torque vectoring, 0–62 mph in 2.36 seconds, 243 mph top speed, and a unique DiSus-X suspension that enables vertical jumps. It features a 100 kWh Blade battery and charges to 80% in under 10 minutes.

If you think EVs are just silent sedans and eco-friendly hatchbacks, meet the BYD Yangwang U9—a Chinese-built, electric hypercar with a hubless punch and 360-degree tank turns. With 960 kW (1,287 hp) and 1,680 Nm of torque, this thing doesn’t just scoot—it launches, dances, and even hops like it’s auditioning for the circus circuit.

Built to disrupt the hypercar elite, the U9 combines speed, AI-driven control, and wild mechanical antics into one jaw-dropping, carbon-wrapped package priced at $233,500 (about €219,000). Yes, a tenth of what you’d pay for a Rimac Nevera or Pininfarina Battista—and with a Nürburgring lap time to match.

Four Motors, Four Brains: The e4 Platform with Torque Tricks

Under the carbon shell, BYD’s e4 platform brings a quad-motor setup—one electric motor per wheel. This gives the U9 full torque vectoring control, allowing each wheel to respond independently for unmatched handling. It's like giving each corner of the car its own brain, calculating and reacting faster than most sports cars can blink.

The result? The U9 doesn’t just corner—it pivots. Literally. It can do tank turns in place, making a 2.5-ton electric machine spin like a ballerina strapped to a rocket. And yes, it does it with style, control, and no tire-shredding drama.

Performance: Numbers That Challenge the Big Boys

Let’s get serious. 0 to 100 km/h (0–62 mph) in 2.36 seconds. Quarter-mile in 9.78 seconds. Top speed? A blistering 391.94 km/h (243.5 mph). That’s Bugatti territory at BYD prices. The Nürburgring lap time of 7:17.9 puts it ahead of many six-figure gas-powered giants.

All that speed doesn’t come with compromise either. Thanks to a 100 kWh LFP Blade Battery and an 800V system, the U9 can handle hard laps and recharge from 30% to 80% in under 10 minutes with its dual 500 kW charging capability.

DiSus-X Suspension: EVs Can Jump Now?

Yes, the Yangwang U9 jumps. Thanks to its DiSus-X suspension system—a trio of DiSus-C (damping), DiSus-A (air lift), and DiSus-P (hydraulics)—each wheel gets 75 mm of vertical travel. That allows for “three-wheel drive mode” up to 120 km/h (74.5 mph), vertical hops, and the infamous “dance mode” that’s equal parts absurd and brilliant.

While the suspension theatrics are fun, they’re not just gimmicks. They enhance traction, performance, and adaptability at high speed. On twisty mountain roads or closed circuits, that means you get real benefits beyond just drawing a crowd at Cars & Coffee.

Blade Battery and Charging Speed: Fast, Safe, and Cool

Battery tech often makes or breaks an EV, and BYD’s 100 kWh LFP Blade Battery delivers on every front. Using lithium iron phosphate chemistry, it’s less prone to thermal runaway, safer under stress, and supported by an advanced liquid cooling system.

The dual 500 kW charging setup means less waiting and more driving—30% to 80% in 9–10 minutes. That’s barely enough time to stretch your legs or refill your coffee. And with a 450 km (280-mile) range on the CLTC cycle, it offers just enough juice for track days and city flexing.

Futuristic Design With Functional Aero

From butterfly doors to a Time Gate-inspired body design, the U9 looks like it just warped in from 2045. But the looks aren’t just for show. It has a drag coefficient of 0.95, 12 aerodynamic systems, an electric four-speed active rear wing, and carbon aero blades that all work in sync to keep this beast planted.

Even heat dissipation is managed by the aero setup, ensuring that both the motors and the battery stay cool during high-speed stints—no matter how hard you push it.

Tech-Loaded Interior: Qualcomm, DiLink, and Race Guidance

Inside, the U9 is a rolling tech showcase. Three screens—driver, center, and passenger—all powered by BYD’s DiLink150 system running on a 4nm Qualcomm chip. It’s fast, responsive, and wired for real-time track guidance across 30+ circuits in China with 0.01s precision.

Dynaudio provides concert-level audio while voice control, driver coaching AI, and over-the-air updates future-proof the experience. It’s luxury-meets-lap-timer in a way that feels less Silicon Valley, more Nürburgring pit wall.

Race Intelligence Meets Driver Safety

Aside from the track-focused tech, the U9 brings serious ADAS chops. With adaptive cruise, blind spot monitoring, lane centering, and potential Level 3+ autonomy, it’s ready for both the racetrack and the daily crawl—assuming your commute involves onlookers and not traffic jams.

The AI assistant even mimics racing lines, analyzes driver inputs, and acts like a coach in your passenger seat. It’s not just an electric car—it’s a full-time driving tutor with race-winning instincts baked in.