Advanced driver-assistance systems through SAE Level 3; exclude fully driverless Level 4–5 vehicles.
ADAS cuts crash losses despite higher repair costs, study finds
IIHS and HLDI research finds ADAS-equipped vehicles have higher claim severity but fewer crashes, reducing overall collision losses by about 5% and property-damage liability losses by nearly 30%. For fleets, parts shortages and calibration requirements can increase repair downtime.
BYD launches Formula S and S GT electric performance models
BYD’s Fang Cheng Bao has launched the Formula S and S GT electric models, featuring rapid charging, up to 900km of CLTC range, DiSus-M adaptive suspension and LiDAR-enabled highway and urban navigation assistance.
Li Auto launches i9 electric SUV in China with 0.215 drag coefficient
Li Auto has launched the i9 flagship electric SUV in China, priced at 369,800 yuan. It offers a 705km CLTC range, 5C rapid charging and an optional LiDAR-equipped driver-assistance package, with initial vehicles using CATL batteries before a planned switch to Li Auto-developed packs.
Denza Z9S electric sedan set for launch with 1,100km range
Denza will launch the Z9S on 23 September 2026 after opening pre-sales. The electric sedan offers up to 1,100km of CLTC range from BYD Blade batteries, plus roof-mounted lidar, advanced driving functions and rear-wheel steering.
Voyah Dream 9 flagship MPV to launch in China with 701 km range
Dongfeng’s Voyah will launch the Dream 9 flagship MPV in China on 22 September. The plug-in hybrid and battery-electric models feature an 800V platform, fast charging, LiDAR-supported Huawei assisted driving and a new intelligent chassis.
Freelander 8 China deliveries to begin on 19 September
Chery Jaguar Land Rover will begin China deliveries of the Freelander 8 on 19 September. The extended-range SUV features Huawei’s ADS 5.0 driver-assistance system, roof-mounted LiDAR, an 800V platform and a 310km electric range.
Volvo updates 40 series with enhanced driver assistance and AI
Volvo has upgraded its XC40, EX40 and EC40 models with new radar and camera hardware, enhanced driver-assistance functions including lane-change assist, Google Gemini AI and refreshed interiors. The electric EX40 and EC40 offer ranges of up to 575km and 585km respectively.
Denza launches N8L electric SUV with 130 kWh battery and nine-minute charging
BYD’s Denza has launched the N8L pure-electric SUV with a 130.15 kWh Blade Battery, 960 km CLTC range and 800V charging from 10% to 97% in about nine minutes. It also features roof-mounted lidar and the company’s God’s Eye driving-assistance system.
ZF showcases commercial-vehicle technology and growth at IAA 2026
ZF Commercial Vehicle Solutions reports more than €5bn in awarded 2026 business and an almost 90% customer-acquisition win rate. At IAA Transportation, it is showcasing new driveline, braking, ADAS and software-defined commercial-vehicle technologies, including the MAXX Uniper air disc brake.
Zurich Australia to factor Tesla FSD into insurance premiums
Zurich will include an active Tesla Full Self-Driving (Supervised) subscription when calculating premiums for its InsureMyTesla policy, making it the first Australian insurer to recognise the driver-assistance technology in pricing.
Geely EX5 revealed in China with rear-drive EV platform and roof-mounted LiDAR
Geely has revealed its upgraded EX5 electric crossover in China ahead of a September launch. The model gains a 245kW rear motor, structural and electronic changes, a larger front trunk and roof-mounted LiDAR supporting its G-Pilot H5 assisted-driving system.
Xiaomi begins Skynomad EREV SUV deliveries across 75 Chinese cities
Xiaomi has started delivering its Skynomad N70 and N90 extended-range SUVs in 75 Chinese cities. The models offer up to 1,705km combined range, LFP batteries and roof-mounted LiDAR supporting Level 2 assisted driving.
Mitsubishi confirms Australian specifications for returning Pajero
Mitsubishi will return the Pajero to Australian showrooms in December 2026. The body-on-frame four-wheel drive offers five- or seven-seat configurations, a 3.5-tonne towing capacity, diesel power, low-range 4WD and a comprehensive active-safety package for fleet applications.
BYD begins nationwide deliveries of Sealion 08 SUV in China
BYD has started nationwide deliveries of the Sealion 08 in China after securing more than 12,000 orders in its first 24 hours. The electric and plug-in hybrid SUV offers multiple battery, powertrain and driving-assistance configurations.
Geely Galaxy TT launches with 800V platform and lidar-assisted driving
Geely has launched the electric Galaxy TT with an 800V, 6C fast-charging platform, CATL LFP battery and up to 425kW of power. Its H5 and H7 driver-assistance systems combine cameras, radar and lidar for urban and highway navigation and automated parking.
Nissan confirms Australian specifications for new-generation Patrol
Nissan’s Y63 Patrol will launch in Australia in early 2027 with a twin-turbo V6, increased 3,700kg towing capacity, revised chassis and six-grade range. Standard technology includes ProPILOT, trailer blind-spot warning, Google built-in and Gemini AI.
Xiaomi launches Skynomad N90 Max extended-range electric SUV
Xiaomi has launched the seven-seat Skynomad N90 Max and Explorer Edition, an extended-range electric SUV with a 76kWh battery, 464km electric range and 1,705km combined range. Its driver-assistance suite uses lidar, radar, cameras and Nvidia’s Thor processor.
New York City mandates speed and pedestrian safety technology for fleet
New York City will require intelligent speed assistance in contracts for new civilian fleet vehicles and pedestrian-alert systems on new trucks. It will also retrofit existing city fleet trucks with pedestrian alerts by June 2029, following trials across 1,800 vehicles.
Three Chinese car models achieve five-star Euro NCAP safety ratings
Euro NCAP has awarded five-star ratings to the Aion UT, Geely E2 and Leapmotor B05 under its 2026 protocols. The Cupra Raval received five stars only with an optional Safety Pack, highlighting differences in active safety equipment.
Kia makes ADAS alerts easier for fleet drivers to manage
Kia Australia says it is balancing five-star ANCAP requirements with driver usability by allowing selected safety alerts to be muted or customised. Physical-button controls for lane support and warnings are intended to improve acceptance in fleet vehicles.
AGL GSoC projects target AI cameras, Bluetooth and LiDAR perception
Automotive Grade Linux’s 2026 Google Summer of Code projects include an AI-enabled multi-camera backup system, a modern BlueZ Bluetooth integration and ROS2-based simulated LiDAR perception using CARLA and embedded hardware.
Australian study finds ADAS uptake could prevent 7,000 annual casualties
IAG, QUT and iMOVE research found wider ADAS use could prevent more than 7,000 Australian road casualties each year. However, 60% of surveyed drivers disable assistance features, highlighting the need for driver education and fleet familiarisation.
Renesas and Autoware partner on scalable ADAS and autonomous-driving software
Renesas has joined the Autoware Foundation’s highest membership tier, bringing its open-source AI driving stack to R-Car and RoX platforms. The collaboration targets production-ready systems ranging from entry-level L2 ADAS to hands-free L2++ and driverless L4 applications.
Mercedes-Benz upgrades C-Class with electrified powertrains and AI
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a comprehensively upgraded C-Class Saloon and Estate, adding plug-in hybrid capability, expanded driver assistance, MB.OS software and an AI-powered MBUX Virtual Assistant. The update is aimed partly at fleet operators and includes up to 100km of electric range.
Tesla prepares FSD v14 Lite update for older cars in Australia and New Zealand
Tesla is developing and rolling out FSD Supervised v14 Lite for vehicles with older AI3 hardware. The software adds driving and parking functions, with availability for Australia and New Zealand not yet confirmed.
BYD reveals five-seat Sealion 08 interior ahead of 2 September launch
BYD has revealed the five-seat interior of its Sealion 08 ahead of its 2 September launch. The BEV and PHEV SUV will offer multiple powertrains, Blade Battery options, Flash Charging, LiDAR-supported God’s Eye 5.0 ADAS and rear-wheel steering.
Volkswagen opens China presales for ID. Aura T6 electric crossover
FAW–Volkswagen has opened presales in China for the ID. Aura T6 electric crossover, priced from 135,900 yuan. The model uses Xpeng-co-developed CEA architecture, LFP batteries and a LiDAR-based assisted-driving system supporting highway and urban navigation assistance.
Chery launches electric Fulwin T7 SUV in China from $14,300
Chery has launched the pure-electric Fulwin T7 compact SUV in China, priced from 97,900 yuan. It offers a 65.05kWh LFP battery, 600km CLTC range, 20-minute fast charging and Falcon 500 assisted-driving features including automated parking and highway navigation.
BYD sets 2 September launch for Sealion 08 electric SUV
BYD will launch its Sealion 08 flagship SUV on 2 September in plug-in hybrid and battery-electric versions. The model features Blade Battery options up to 115.072kWh, flash charging and the company’s God’s Eye 5.0 intelligent driving assistance system.
Geely recalls nearly 93,000 vehicles over faulty LiDAR units
Geely will replace faulty LiDAR units in 74,037 Lynk & Co vehicles and 18,878 Galaxy M9s in China. Damaged power ICs can impair object recognition during assisted driving, prompting owner complaints and concerns about inconsistent after-sales handling.
Mazda 6e earns five-star ANCAP safety rating
Mazda’s first mainstream electric vehicle, the 6e, has received a five-star ANCAP safety rating. It scored 93% for adult and child occupant protection, with lower scores for vulnerable road-user protection and safety assist.
BYD’s Denza Z9S reaches 101 Chinese dealers ahead of launch
BYD’s electric Denza Z9S sedan has reached 101 dealers in 61 Chinese cities ahead of launch. It offers up to 1,100 km of CLTC range, nine-minute flash charging and DiPilot 300 assisted driving, with pre-sales priced from 319,800 yuan.
BYD Da Han electric sedan reaches Chinese dealers
BYD’s Da Han flagship electric sedan has reached dealers in China, offering up to 1,008 km of CLTC range, nine-minute flash charging and LiDAR-enabled assisted driving. Prices range from 249,900 to 299,900 yuan.
Mazda refreshes CX-6e with LiDAR-assisted driving in China
Mazda has opened Chinese pre-sales for a refreshed CX-6e/EZ-60 SUV with roof-mounted LiDAR and advanced L2 assisted-driving functions for highway and urban use. The EV and range-extended EV model is built by the Changan-Mazda joint venture.
Tesla recalls 3 million China vehicles over door handles and driver monitoring
Tesla is recalling about 3 million vehicles in China over door-handle failures after collisions and deficiencies in driver-monitoring systems. OTA software updates will lower windows after crashes and add in-cabin monitoring to some vehicles.
Beijing Hyundai opens Ioniq V pre-sales in China from $17,600
Beijing Hyundai has opened pre-sales of the China-designed Ioniq V at 119,900–139,900 yuan. The electric car features AI-enabled infotainment, a 27-inch display and Momenta high-speed driver assistance.
Volkswagen launches ID. Era 5S PHEV in China with 160km EV range
SAIC-Volkswagen has launched the ID. Era 5S plug-in hybrid sedan in China, priced from 89,900 yuan. Its 19.1kWh LFP battery provides a claimed 160km CLTC range, while higher trims offer Level 2 assisted driving developed with Momenta, Carizon and Horizon Robotics.
GAC Aion unveils Ray 7 electric fastback with Huawei technology
GAC Aion has unveiled the Ray 7, an electric rear-wheel-drive fastback featuring Huawei’s electro-mechanical braking and torque-control systems, CATL LFP battery and 192-line lidar. Its AI-based driving system supports advanced urban navigation and parking functions.
Buick launches Electra L7 electric car in China with 800V charging
Buick has launched the Electra L7 pure-electric car in China, priced from 179,900 yuan. The 800V model uses an 80.6kWh LFP battery, offers up to 702km of CLTC range and features Momenta-powered driver assistance with a planned OTA upgrade.
Epicland X9 EREV opens pre-sales with 465km electric range
Dongfeng’s Epicland has opened pre-sales for the X9 extended-range SUV, priced from 299,800 yuan. The six-seat model uses a 74.29kWh CATL LFP battery and features Huawei Qiankun ADS 5, including dual-optical-path and solid-state LiDAR.
Pre-production Freelander 8 SUV spotted testing in the UAE
A pre-production Freelander 8 range-extended SUV has been spotted undergoing road tests in the UAE ahead of its planned local and wider international launch. The 818hp model uses a 60.3kWh LFP battery and Huawei-assisted driving technology.
Refreshed Aito M9 leads China’s luxury SUV sales, Huawei says
Huawei-backed Aito says its refreshed M9 luxury SUV topped China’s vehicles priced above 500,000 yuan for two months. The EV and EREV model exceeded 10,000 monthly sales in June, while its Ultimate long-wheelbase variant is entering pre-sales with ADS 5.0 and six LiDAR sensors.
BYD Da Han electric flagship to open China presales on 21 August
BYD will open presales for its Da Han flagship sedan in China on 21 August 2026. The electric and plug-in hybrid model offers up to 1,008 km of range, rear-wheel steering, LiDAR-equipped DiPilot 5.0 assisted driving and nine-minute flash charging.
Volkswagen adds simplified Crafter Runner large van in Australia
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has added the Crafter Runner to its Australian range, offering a simplified large van with 9.9 cubic metres of cargo space, payload of up to 1,362kg and a broad standard suite of active safety and driver-assistance systems.
Kia to launch Sorento in India with AWD and generative AI assistant
Kia will launch the Sorento SUV in India on 4 September with petrol and diesel options, available AWD, a strong-hybrid powertrain, Level 2 ADAS and a natural-language generative AI assistant.
Voyah launches electric Passion S with LiDAR-based driver assistance
Voyah has launched the all-electric Passion S FUV in three trims priced from 229,900 yuan. It offers rear- or all-wheel drive, 800V 5C charging, up to 740km CLTC range and Huawei Qiankun ADS 5.0 supported by LiDAR and millimetre-wave radar.
Freelander 8 opens China pre-orders with 818 hp and Huawei ADS 5
Chery and JLR’s Freelander brand has opened Chinese pre-orders for the Freelander 8 extended-range SUV, priced from 339,900 yuan. The vehicle offers Huawei ADS 5, an 800V platform with 6C charging and up to 818 hp from a dual-motor powertrain.