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36Kr (EN)

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… achievement of vision-only autonomous driving is rare in the industry. Only a few players, including Xpeng and Jiyue (leveraging Baidu’s driving technology), have reached this level. Xpeng claims that once autonomous driving hardware is standardized, software updates will accelerate, giving it an advantage over competitors who rely on third-party suppliers.
However, as LiDAR becomes standard in EVs priced above RMB 200,000, competitors like IM Motors’ L6 and the new BYD Han have already adopted the technology. For the P7+ to stand out, Xpeng must prove the superiority of its vision-based system.
Establishing a foothold in the electric sedan market is no easy task. Nio’s ET5 and ET5T saw initial success but have since declined, while models like the Luxeed S7 and Avatr 12, despite strong designs and autonomous features, have struggled to achieve strong sales.
In the coming month, pricing will be a key challenge for the P7+. If Xpeng can set a competitive price and effectively position itself against rivals, the P7+ could secure a strong market presence upon release.
The Mona series’ success has helped Xpeng emerge from a challenging period. With sales recovering to over 20,000 units in September, Xpeng has managed to shake off its recent decline. The rapid launch of the P7+ is not only an effort to elevate the brand but also a test of the operational improvements Xpeng has implemented over the past two years.
KrASIA Connection features translated and adapted content that was originally published by 36Kr. This <a href="https://36kr.com/p/2986736844071177">article</a> was written by Li Anqi for 36Kr.

After Mona M03’s breakout, Xpeng eyes another EV win with the P7+

Xpeng Motors

China

Electric Vehicles

Mobility

… real downsides.”
Jiang Wen, a senior R&amp;D executive at Xpeng Motors, told 36Kr that internal data shows EV penetration is advancing rapidly in some regions, while in others, it lags behind. “In those areas, range-extended vehicles may be the best solution.”
<h3>A delicate balance with each change</h3>
However, developing large-battery hybrid cars involves more than mastering engine and battery technology. It requires significant structural changes to the vehicle itself. Increasing battery capacity also means an expansion in battery size, and even minor structural changes can affect the entire system.
Hybrid vehicles have exhaust systems, so their battery packs tend to be narrow. Raising the battery height could reduce cabin space, especially for the driver’s legroom. Automakers and battery manufacturers are working to reshape battery packs to better fit vehicle designs. The increasingly popular short blade battery allows for higher capacity and better integration without interfering with exhaust systems.
However, developing new battery packs for large-battery hybrid vehicles is a long process, requiring extensive testing for both the battery and the entire vehicle. A platform for such vehicles must accommodate key components like engines and drive motors. In a vehicle’s limited space, this requires a high degree of component integration.
For instance, BYD’s fifth-generation DM system integrates seven components into one power domain control unit, freeing up space and reducing energy loss.
Thus, increasing the battery capacity for hybrid cars requires adjustments to nearly every component linked to the battery. To meet automotive standards, these changes must undergo rigorous stability testing.
This level of innovation requires not only new product development but also significant shifts in corporate culture and supply chain management—a considerable challenge for multinational automakers. “When it comes to new technology, we work with emerging automakers first, then domestic brands, and only finally with joint venture companies. Joint ventures need approval from their overseas headquarters, which slows decision-making,” a Chinese supplier told 36Kr.
<h3>Luxury car brands are running out of time</h3>
Slow decision-making processes of overseas headquarters have become a constraint for multinational automakers. Developing large-battery hybrid vehicles is no longer just a technical issue but also a power dynamic between Chinese and foreign companies. Volvo, despite being majority-owned by Geely, still relies on its Swedish team for model development. However, it has begun using Geely’s technology platform to speed up hybrid development.
For luxury car brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW, hybrid platforms must be developed by their overseas headquarters, complicating the process. “Global automakers are struggling in China because foreign companies are slower to adopt new technologies like smart cabins and autonomous driving,” a source told 36Kr. Most global brands design their models for worldwide markets, making it difficult to create products tailored to China.”
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Some representatives from luxury brands remain optimistic, believing progress is being made, albeit slowly. “It takes time for recognition to build,” one said, citing how Chinese automakers only launched range-extended models recently.
However, market performance is a powerful persuader. Four years ago, Volkswagen dismissed PHEVs as a transitional technology. After seeing 84.7% growth in China and 54% in the US last year, the company has announced plans to invest more in PHEVs.
The competition is fierce, and joint ventures must act quickly to stay competitive. “Large-battery hybrid technology is one of our last chances to remain competitive. BBA brands still have strong recognition, but it’s a matter of who seizes the opportunity first,” a senior executive at a joint venture automaker told 36Kr.
SAIC Volkswagen’s general manager, Jia Jianxu, once said that joint venture automakers have only two years left to make their mark. For many multinational automakers in China, it’s now a case of “go big or go home.”
KrASIA Connection features translated and adapted content that was originally published by 36Kr. This <a href="https://36kr.com/p/2966261565690112">article</a> was written by Han Yongchang and Tian Zhe for 36Kr.

Large-battery hybrid cars: The final hope for global automakers in China?

… parliament there has been no increase in the number of arrests of Chinese nationals after the start of the visa exemption plan.
"A visa regime is not a foolproof way to keep unwanted characters away," said Sun Xueling, minister of state for home affairs, in September.
Observers note that amid the competing pressures of attracting wealth and reassuring citizens, the Singapore authorities cannot just impose more rules.
"The bad actors are becoming increasingly sophisticated," said Yam Wern-Jhien, director at law firm Setia Law. "It is not just enhancing regulation, but it has to be coupled with introducing tools and educating people … it has to be a holistic approach."
This article first appeared on <a tabindex="0" href="https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/ASEAN-Money/Singapore-s-lure-for-rich-Chinese-breeds-family-office-tensions" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-token-index="1">Nikkei Asia</a>. It has been republished here as part of 36Kr’s ongoing <a tabindex="0" href="https://www.kr-asia.com/nikkei-teams-up-with-36kr-in-asia-tech-news-coverage/" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-token-index="3">partnership with Nikkei</a>.

Singapore's lure for rich Chinese breeds family office tensions

Private Equity

Singapore

Southeast Asia

The Indonesia Game Developer Exchange (IGDX) Business 2024, held from October 10–11 at The Stones Hotel in Bali, brought local developers face-to-face with global industry giants, giving Indonesia’s gaming industry a significant boost. Organized by Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Informatics (Kominfo) in collaboration with the Indonesian Game Association (AGI), the event featured over 1,600 business meetings, opening doors for partnerships, funding, and collaborations.
A standout moment was the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between AGI and the Polish Investment and Trade Agency (PAIH), signaling a new chapter of cooperation in game industry development. The partnership promises future business visits and program support between Indonesia and Poland, reinforced by Poland’s role as a sponsor of IGDX 2024 and its active participation in business meetings.
Global players like Garena, Google, Nuon, and Microsoft’s Xbox made their presence felt, giving local developers a rare opportunity to engage with international publishers and investors. The event’s indie booth showcase highlighted 46 local teams, including graduates of IGDX’s bootcamp program, further positioning Indonesia on the global gaming map.
<figure id="attachment_150486" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-150486" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-150486" src="https://console.kr-asia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IGDX-Bootcamp-1024x576.jpg" alt="Photo of IGDX Bootcamp graduates at IGDX Business 2024." width="640" height="360" srcset="https://console.kr-asia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IGDX-Bootcamp-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://console.kr-asia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IGDX-Bootcamp-300x169.jpg 300w, https://console.kr-asia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IGDX-Bootcamp-768x432.jpg 768w, https://console.kr-asia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IGDX-Bootcamp-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://console.kr-asia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IGDX-Bootcamp-480x270.jpg 480w, https://console.kr-asia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IGDX-Bootcamp.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-150486" class="wp-caption-text">Photo of IGDX Bootcamp graduates at IGDX Business 2024. Photo and header photo courtesy of Kominfo.</figcaption></figure>
“IGDX Business is more than just networking—it is about meaningful exchanges and real growth,” said Hokky Situngkir, director general of informatics applications at Kominfo, emphasizing the event’s impact. “This event continues to propel Indonesia’s gaming industry forward, helping our developers showcase their innovation on the global stage.”
<figure id="attachment_150487" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-150487" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-150487" src="https://console.kr-asia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IGDX-2024-Showcase-1024x683.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="427" srcset="https://console.kr-asia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IGDX-2024-Showcase-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://console.kr-asia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IGDX-2024-Showcase-300x200.jpg 300w, https://console.kr-asia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IGDX-2024-Showcase-768x512.jpg 768w, https://console.kr-asia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IGDX-2024-Showcase-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://console.kr-asia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IGDX-2024-Showcase.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-150487" class="wp-caption-text">Photo courtesy of Kominfo.</figcaption></figure>
Overall, the event drew more than 400 business professionals, underscoring Indonesia’s growing reputation as a major gaming hub in Southeast Asia.
Adib Toriq, CEO of Malang-based game development studio Algogocks, underscored the event's value in expanding opportunities for local developers, stating that IGDX had a much larger impact compared to similar events abroad. “There aren’t many business events that can provide quality participants who offer significant potential and impact for game developers. And this is not just my feeling—several friends who have attended similar events abroad also feel that the impact of IGDX is much greater,” Toriq said.
This article was published in partnership with Kominfo.

IGDX Business 2024 boosts growth of Indonesia's game industry and global partnerships

Gaming

Creative

Indonesia

… href="mailto:hello@kr-asia.com">hello@kr-asia.com</a>.
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Deals in brief: Tin Men Capital leads GlobalTix’s Series B round, WhiteCoat acquires Good Doctor, ten China deals, and more

Venture Capital

Investment

Merger &amp; Acquisition

Middle East

… allow-top-navigation-by-user-activation"></iframe></div>
Meanwhile, new competitors are closing in on Tesla’s market share. Huawei-backed Luxeed, Nio’s <a href="https://kr-asia.com/nio-launches-the-onvo-l60-suv-throwing-down-gauntlet-to-teslas-model-y">Onvo L60</a>, the Zeekr 7X, and Xiaomi’s upcoming SUV are all slated to launch next year. These brands are directly targeting the Model Y in their marketing campaigns and have already secured tens of thousands of preorders, putting mounting pressure on Tesla’s bestseller.
Industry sources told 36Kr that Tesla’s Shanghai factory is expected to produce 528,000 Model Y units in 2025, averaging 44,000 units per month—a relatively conservative target. For comparison, the Model Y sold approximately 456,300 units in China in 2023, with 48,000 units sold in September alone.
Tesla’s core markets remain the US, EU, and China, the three largest hubs for EV production and sales:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">In the US, Tesla’s August sales reached 53,000 units, maintaining a market share of roughly 35%.</li>
<li aria-level="1">In contrast, the European EV market has slumped, with August sales dropping 33% YoY—the lowest monthly level since January 2023. Tesla’s sales in the region were hit hard, falling by 43.2%.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Globally, EV sales are slowing, with China being the sole exception. In August, Chinese EV sales grew by 42%, reaching 1.02 million units, while market penetration hit 53.9%.</li>
</ul>
Securing a foothold in China is <a href="https://kr-asia.com/is-teslas-blind-spot-in-the-chinese-market-leading-to-its-decline">critical</a> for Tesla to maintain its market position, but the challenge is fiercer than ever.
Artificial intelligence has become a major focus globally, and China’s automotive industry is no exception. Companies like Huawei, BYD, Nio, Xiaomi, and Xpeng Motors have all made AI central to their strategies. Unlike Tesla, however, these companies appear to have clearer long-term plans for the automotive market.
Facing delayed product launches and intensifying competition, Tesla has placed big bets on AI, focusing heavily on FSD subscriptions, autonomous taxis, and household robots. It feels like an all-or-nothing gamble.
Will Musk’s moment of reversal come? It could be the turning point for Tesla—and for the global automotive industry.
KrASIA Connection features translated and adapted content that was originally published by 36Kr. This <a href="https://36kr.com/p/2987895445774593">article</a> was written by Han Yongchang and Li Anqi for 36Kr.
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Tesla unveils Cybercab and Robovan, but Musk leaves questions unanswered

Tesla

Japan, Korea, and the West

Transportation

Autonomous Vehicles

The rise of large artificial intelligence models is reshaping the landscape for Chinese humanoid robots, pulling them out of labs and making mass production the industry's new focal point.
Since the start of the year, several Chinese humanoid robot companies have released their first products, some as young as two years old. Gu Jie, founder and CEO of <a href="https://www.fftai.com/">Fourier Intelligence</a>, attributes this momentum not only to AI advancements but also to the strength of China’s automotive and consumer electronics industries. According to Gu, these industries have laid the groundwork to scale the production of humanoid robot bodies—a key challenge to commercializing humanoid robots.
Fourier is one of the companies moving toward mass production of general-purpose humanoid robots. Having gained expertise with rehabilitation robots, the company turned its attention in 2019 to developing a broader application. The result, GR-1, was launched in 2023. Over 100 units have since been delivered to companies across various sectors, providing Fourier with insights into areas for improvement.
However, Gu is quick to admit that the GR-1 is still a work in progress. As the company continues to gather feedback from real-world deployments, Fourier has identified six areas for optimization: motor intelligence, cognitive intelligence, bionic design, dexterity, commercial viability, and user experience.
In response, Fourier has launched the second generation of its robot, the GR-2. With 53 degrees of freedom and the ability to lift up to 3 kilograms with a single arm, the GR-2 boasts a more powerful battery—double that of its predecessor—which allows for two hours of continuous operation.
The new model also features a streamlined design that more closely resembles human anatomy. Standing at 175 centimeters and weighing 63 kg, the GR-2 integrates internal wiring, neatly hiding its cables within the robot's frame. This design shift is not just cosmetic—it aids in data collection for improving the robot's performance across different applications.
One of the major upgrades in the GR-2 is its redesigned joints, now featuring a serial configuration with peak torques exceeding 380 newton-meters, providing improved agility and control accuracy. Additionally, Fourier has equipped the robot’s hands with 12 degrees of freedom and six array-type tactile sensors, enabling it to sense force and adjust its grip in real time—critical for handling delicate objects in dynamic environments.
While Fourier is progressing rapidly, Gu emphasized that large-scale production could still be years away. Although the company will continue producing the GR-2 on a small scale, he predicts the humanoid robot industry will see a tenfold increase in output by 2025.
whereRelatedArticle
Despite the potential surge in production, Gu is not concerned about the prospect of a price war. He believes the industry is too immature for such competition, explaining that the focus should remain on refining humanoid robots to perform commercially valuable tasks reliably.
As for the future, Fourier has no fixed timeline for new releases in its GRx series. Gu said the company’s development cycles will be driven by technological advancements rather than an annual schedule, and he’s optimistic about the further integration of AI with robotics, predicting significant breakthroughs next year.
KrASIA Connection features translated and adapted content that was originally published by 36Kr. This <a href="https://36kr.com/p/2966254243794948">article</a> was written by Tian Zhe for 36Kr.

Fourier Intelligence’s founder breaks down what’s next for humanoid robots

China Tech

Deep Tech

… is a massive development with six key zones: “cities” for logistics, commercial, residential, aviation, and golf, respectively, as well as a 5G smart warehouse built by Huawei and a local UAE operator.
The Logistics Corridor, a network of highways, connects Dubai South to the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), home to the Middle East’s largest deepwater port, Jebel Ali Port. This integrated network ensures connections between sea, land, and air, cutting delivery times.
The industrial cluster formed by Dubai South, JAFZA, and the Logistics Corridor has made the area an ideal base for e-commerce and logistics companies like UPS, FedEx, DHL, Amazon, and Noon. Chinese logistics giants JD Logistics, SF International, and Yunda Express have also established branches here.
<figure id="attachment_150396" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-150396" style="width: 1024px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-150396" src="https://console.kr-asia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Dubai-South-1024x632.jpeg" alt="Image outlines key landmarks and infrastructure within the Dubai South area." width="1024" height="632" srcset="https://console.kr-asia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Dubai-South-1024x632.jpeg 1024w, https://console.kr-asia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Dubai-South-300x185.jpeg 300w, https://console.kr-asia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Dubai-South-768x474.jpeg 768w, https://console.kr-asia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Dubai-South-1536x948.jpeg 1536w, https://console.kr-asia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Dubai-South.jpeg 1966w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-150396" class="wp-caption-text">Image outlines key landmarks and infrastructure within the Dubai South area. Image source: Dubai South.</figcaption></figure>
In the past, bulk goods were the primary way Chinese manufacturers entered the MENA region. Now, with these infrastructure projects, Dubai is playing an even bigger role in cross-border e-commerce.
Looking ahead, Dubai’s development strategy is always forward-thinking. As Dennis Lister, senior vice president of product and innovation at Emirates SkyCargo, said, e-commerce is the next big wave in global trade, and new capabilities will be essential to keep pace with a rapidly changing world or risk being left behind.
<h3>UAE’s path to transformation</h3>
Mohammad bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, once said that “[the UAE] will celebrate the last barrel of oil,” signaling the country’s commitment to accelerating its energy transition despite being one of the world’s largest oil producers and exporters. To reduce its reliance on oil, the UAE is focused on a policy of economic diversification. Dubai, with the smallest oil reserves among the emirates, is especially concentrating on non-oil sectors such as reexport trade, tourism, real estate, and finance.
In the renewable energy sector, Dubai has pledged to generate 100% of its power from clean sources by 2050. By 2030, solar panels will be mandatory on rooftops, and the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park is set to reach a total installed capacity of 5,000 megawatts.
In the digital economy, Dubai has rolled out several initiatives, including the “Dubai Blockchain Strategy,” “Smart Dubai,” and the “Dubai Metaverse Strategy,” along with projects in robotics and automation.
In manufacturing, Saud Abu Al-Shawareb, general manager of Dubai Industrial City, noted that the UAE’s AED 300 billion (USD 81.7 billion) action plan, launched in 2021, has already generated AED 197 billion (USD 53.6 billion) in industrial output. As part of Dubai’s D33 plan, the city is focused on building a greener, more resilient industrial ecosystem, with the aim of attracting greater foreign direct investment.
whereRelatedArticle
The “Made in UAE” initiative also allows Chinese companies to reduce geopolitical risks and expand smoothly into global markets. Under agreements like CEPA, products assembled in the UAE can enter major markets such as India, Indonesia, Turkey, Israel, and, eventually, ASEAN countries with lower tariffs.
These initiatives are poised to drive Dubai’s economic transformation, with Chinese companies expected to play a pivotal role in this journey.
KrASIA Connection features translated and adapted content that was originally published by 36Kr. This <a href="https://letschuhai.com/44ef5228">article</a> was written by Chang Weiqian for 36Kr.

Dubai’s infrastructure boom positions it as the global trade north star

MENA

China will implement a string of new cybersecurity rules next year, authorities announced on September 30, placing an emphasis on national security and requiring companies providing generative artificial intelligence services to add extra data protection.
The network data security management regulations contain 64 clauses based on China's cybersecurity and data security laws. They will go into force on January 1.
China has been working on the document since the initial draft was released nearly three years ago.
Under the new rules, companies that provide services related to generative AI must enhance their training in data processing and other areas. They are also required to take steps to prepare for data breach risks. Non-Chinese operators must establish data processing centers within China if they handle personal data originating from the country.
Under the general provisions, data processors that are deemed to have undermined China's national security, the public interest or legally protected interests will be held legally responsible. This applies regardless of whether the data is processed within China or abroad.
The regulations call on businesses to follow guidance from the ruling party and take a broad view of national security that covers the economy, science and technology, in addition to national defense.
Companies and others involved in data processing are required to comply with national standards and report to authorities within 24 hours in the event of a data breach or other issues that could compromise national security. The rules also authorize national security officials to launch investigations.
Under the new rules, the state will encourage platforms to require personalized internet identification from users before allowing them to access online services. A proposal for establishing <a href="https://asia.nikkei.com/Politics/China-s-cyberspace-ID-proposal-triggers-fear-of-stricter-social-control">such cyberspace IDs</a> was drafted by the government in July.
The proposal raised concerns that it could lead to tighter control over internet use. The mention of cyberspace IDs in the new regulations suggests that the government is intent on promoting the measure.
From 2017 to 2021, the Chinese government drew up three laws governing the internet. It is tightening rules concerning the overseas transfer of data.
This article first appeared on <a tabindex="0" href="https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Technology/Artificial-intelligence/China-to-roll-out-cybersecurity-rules-covering-generative-AI" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-token-index="1">Nikkei Asia</a>. It has been republished here as part of 36Kr’s ongoing <a tabindex="0" href="https://www.kr-asia.com/nikkei-teams-up-with-36kr-in-asia-tech-news-coverage/" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-token-index="3">partnership with Nikkei</a>.

China to roll out cybersecurity rules covering generative AI

Security