Automotive
First Xiaomi car set for a 2024 launch
Promised by a Xiaomi exec
Earlier this year, Xiaomi confirmed that the tech company will officially enter the smart vehicle industry soon. The new market isn’t a huge surprise for Xiaomi. The Chinese company is already known for expanding to different industries outside of its home in the smartphone market. Now, adding more news to its announcement earlier this year, Xiaomi has confirmed a timeline for the first Xiaomi car.
Reported by Reuters, Xiaomi chief executive Lei Jun has pegged the mass production for the first Xiaomi car sometime in the first half of 2024. However, amid multiple developments towards the new branch, Xiaomi has not announced whether they are producing the car themselves or partnering up with an existing player in the industry.
Soon after the initial announcement, Xiaomi registered its electric vehicle arm, officially confirming the company’s strides towards its automotive goals. Xiaomi has also recently acquired a self-driving development company called DeepMotion this year.
Xiaomi’s automotive efforts are still in its infancy stages. The company already obtained an initial RMB 10 billion investment set for a 10-year push in the industry.
Of course, creating a smart car is only the first step towards becoming a player in the smart car industry. Xiaomi will face heady competition when it finally releases its first product. Tesla is already a formidable player, and more players are already set to launch their own entries soon.
SEE ALSO: Xiaomi has Smart Glasses too
Automotive
VinFast updates battery subscription policy for large upfront savings
Up to 20% upfront savings with a battery subscription model
VinFast has updated its battery subscription policy for the Philippine market, offering consumers up to 20% savings in upfront costs.
In addition to the traditional vehicle purchase with battery included, customers can own a VinFast EV under a battery subscription model.
This option offers a more attractive initial investment, with upfront costs reduced by up to 20% — depending on the model.
Battery subscription fees are applied flexibly, starting from PhP 1,600 per month, based on actual distance.
For instance, the VinFast VF3 can be purchased at PhP 590,000 under the battery subscription model rather than PhP 745,000. The monthly subscription fee then starts at PhP 1,600.
Meanwhile, for the VF6 and above variants, the monthly costs start at PhP 2,350. Customers can also save more than PhP 1.5 million on the VF 9 Plus.
Flexible financial tool
Positioned as a “lifetime battery warranty” solution, the battery subscription policy is a flexible financial tool that optimizes cash flow. It is likewise a long-term commitment to consumers.
VinFast assumes full responsibility for battery performance throughout the subscription period. This includes maintenance, repairs, and free replacement when battery capacity drops below 70 percent.
In the event of battery damage caused by an accident, VinFast will handle the issue under the battery subscription policy. This helps minimize financial risks for customers.
The pioneering policy reinforces VinFast’s customer-centric commitment, advancing green mobility in the market.
Meanwhile, customers who opt for the traditional vehicle purchase with battery included, VinFast can still offer comprehensive aftersales benefits. This includes a battery warranty of up to 10 years or 200,000 kilometers.
The dual approach allows interested consumers to be in control of the ownership model that best suits their needs and personal financial capabilities.
BYD Group premium sub-brand DENZA is officially entering the Philippine market.
The move marks a strategic shift to capture the luxury “new energy vehicle” (NEV) segment, beyond the company’s existing mass-market offerings.
This expansion follows a period of rapid growth for BYD in the Philippines under its distributor, ACMobility.
By introducing DENZA, the group aims to offer a tiered ecosystem of electrified transport that ranges from budget-friendly options to high-output luxury ones.
The sub-brand’s initial lineup could possibly include the high-end MPV, DENZA D9.
It features a triple-motor system and high-capacity batteries that provide significant electric-only range before the gasoline generator engages.
Potentially, SUVs DENZA B5 and DENZA B8 will also be introduced locally, positioned as plug-in hybrid EVs.
Offerings under the DENZA sub-brand will be distributed locally by BYD Philippines Corp.
Advanced technology, comfort
DENZA’s entry focuses on “passenger-centric engineering” rather than traditional luxury excess.
The vehicles will feature two of BYD’s flagship technologies: the DiSus system and e3 platform.
The first is an intelligent body control system that manages vehicle motion to balance executive-level ride comfort with sharp handling.
Meanwhile, the e3 Platform is a high-performance architecture utilizing a three-motor drivetrain.
This setup lets drivers pull off advanced maneuvers such as “crab-walking” and “compass turns,” while enhancing stability during high-speed travel or emergency situations.
Strategic presence
DENZA will establish a dedicated retail network separate from standard BYD showrooms to support its positioning.
The sub-brand is planning four initial locations in Makati, Greenhills, Alabang, and Cebu.
Once it officially rolls out, DENZA expects to compete against luxury vans like the Toyota Alphard and Lexus LM.
Automotive
Ford Philippines kicks off the year with Drive Now, Pay Later
Get offers up to three months of free amortization!
Ford Philippines opens the year with a strong push for drivers ready to start fresh. Introducing Drive Now, Pay Later, the program is designed to make stepping into a new Ford feel lighter and more timely.
At the center of the offer are two of Ford’s most in-demand nameplates. Customers can take home the Ford Everest Trend today with three months of free amortization.
Meanwhile, the Ford Ranger lineup brings even more flexibility. The Ranger Wildtrak 4×2 comes with four months of free amortization, and the Ranger Sport 4×4 is offered with three months free.
These offers allow buyers to drive their new vehicle now and begin bank financing only after several months. This eases the transition into ownership at the start of the year.
More ways to save this January
Beyond deferred payments, Ford Philippines is extending a wide range of January offers that focus on value and flexibility.
The Ford Everest comes with cash savings of up to PhP 95,000 this month, alongside an all-in option priced at PhP 69,000 on select variants for customers seeking simpler entry costs.
Across the Ranger lineup, buyers can enjoy cash discounts reaching up to PhP 155,000 or opt for a PhP 69,000 all-in down payment on select variants.
The Ranger XLS AT remains one of the most accessible ways to enter the lineup, with a starting price of PhP 1,379,000.
Performance-focused customers can also take advantage of extended January offers for the Ford Raptor. Options include cash discounts or bundled savings with the 5-Star Care Package, depending on the variant.
Electrified and premium options
For drivers ready to explore electrified mobility, the Territory Hybrid Trend starts at PhP 1,399,000. This January, customers may choose between a PhP 20,000 discount or a complimentary three-year Scheduled Service Plan.
Ford’s larger SUVs are also part of the month’s offerings. The Ford Explorer is available with a PhP 99,000 all-in option or 0 percent interest with 20% down payment for 60 months. The Ford Bronco carries the same flexible choices, too.
Availability
The Drive Now, Pay Later program runs across all Ford dealerships nationwide until January 31, 2026. Customers can visit Ford Philippines’ official website or social media channels to explore the full details.
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