1. Over 10 Million “Trade-In for New” Car Subsidy Applications Submitted

According to China’s Ministry of Commerce, 3.225 million applications were submitted under the car replacement subsidy program as of May 11, 2025. Since the program began in 2024, total applications have exceeded 10 million.

2. BYD Officially Enters Romanian Market

BYD has officially launched in Romania, offering several models including the SEALION 7 (Hai Shi 07EV), SEAL (Hai Bao), SEAL U DM-i (Song PLUS DM-i), and the ATTO 2 (Yuan UP).

3. Geely Galaxy Starshine 8 Launches with Limited-Time Price Starting at ¥115,800

Geely has launched the Galaxy Starshine 8, priced between ¥125,800 and ¥165,800, with a limited-time promotional price of ¥115,800 to ¥155,800 for orders locked in before June 30, 2025.

4. Chery Executive Sparks Controversy by Criticizing Geely Car

Chery’s Deputy GM of Marketing, Yao Fei, drew attention for publicly criticizing the Geely Galaxy Starshine 8, calling it a “bad car” on social media. His Douyin (TikTok) account has since been set to private.

5. CATL Unveils World’s First 9MWh Energy Storage System

CATL launched the TENER Stack, a 9MWh ultra-large capacity energy storage system. It features high-density batteries and five-year zero degradation, improving space efficiency by 45% and energy density by 50% compared to traditional 20-foot systems—enough to charge 150 EVs.

6. First Interior Leaks of Li Auto i8 Electric SUV Emerge

Leaked spy photos of Li Auto’s i8 show a three-row seating layout and a cockpit similar to current L-series models, including dual central displays and no traditional instrument cluster.

7. NIO Subsidiary Listed for Tax Arrears

According to Tianyancha, NIO Auto Technology (Anhui) Co., Ltd. was recently listed for tax arrears of ¥39,600, related to stamp duty.

8. Panasonic to Cut 10,000 Jobs Globally

Panasonic announced plans to lay off 10,000 employees worldwide as part of a structural overhaul. Unprofitable businesses will be shut down or merged. Notably, Panasonic Energy (battery division) is excluded from layoffs.

9. Ford Hikes Prices on Three Models Due to Tariffs

Due to import tariff changes, Ford will increase prices for three imported models: the Maverick pickup, Bronco Sport SUV, and Mustang Mach-E EV. The price hike will apply to vehicles produced after May 2, with increases of up to $2,000.

10. Audi Plans to Sell Italdesign Design & Engineering Subsidiary

Audi is reportedly planning to sell its Italian subsidiary Italdesign, according to union sources. This is part of a broader cost-cutting initiative under Volkswagen Group CEO Oliver Blume.