And we thought that the time of Chinese copies was over! Because 20 years ago, when they started in the industry, Chinese car manufacturers designed cars based on European, American or Japanese models. Were there BYD F3 and M6 (Toyota Corolla and Previa), Great Wall Hover (Isuzu Axiom), Geely SK (Mercedes CLK), op BYD S1 (Ford Ecosport), for example… But for some, it was not just a reproduction of the design. They did a lot “reverse engineering”. They disassembled the existing model to form the parts and body panels and created an almost exact replica. We thought this period was buried because today most Chinese brands are autonomous and highly skilled in engineering, design, technology… All you have to do is see excellent characteristics of BYD, SAIC or NIO realize this…

Aion Hyper HT: half Porsche, half Tesla

However, it seems that some manufacturers still have a little difficulty with creativity and originality… It is true Aion, the premium division of the state-owned GAC Group, which was largely inspired by Western models for design his new Hyper HT SUV (High tourism). This is an electric behemoth (segment D). an interesting mix between Porsche and Tesla ! Model X with its shape, silhouette and even its amazing butterfly rear doors. But Cayenne or Panamera for the front end and headlight design. A rather disturbing mix, but quite well done. Its lines are uniform, and its forms are refined, in the same style as the latest creations of its competitors NIO and XPeng. but its real competitor is called the Tesla Model Y…

800V batteries, autonomy of 650 kilometers

His arguments? Two electric motors, 241 horsepower and 335 horsepowerand three battery sizes, for radius of action up to approximately 650 kilometers in the WLTP cycle (at the moment, only figures from Chinese test stands are known). Additional feature compared to Tesla: two larger batteries to accept 800 V architecture (in particular, as Audi, Porsche, Hyundai and Kia), which provides a record charging time: 415 kilometers restored in just 15 minutes! So will we have a chance to see it in France and in Europe? Nothing has been confirmed yet, but we do know that the GAC group is preparing for their upcoming arrival on the Old Continent. This should happen no earlier than 2025.

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