- Chinese electronics manufacturers are adding quirky features to attract customers as sales decline.
As electric vehicle sales decline, Chinese EV makers are doing everything they can to win back customers. Slowing demand has forced Chinese EV makers to add high-end features to their models to boost sales, some of which are exotic in nature. To attract more buyers, unique features such as beds, kitchens, and even drones are being offered as part of the long feature list of electric cars. Here's a quick look at some of the features currently available.
drone
BYD, the world's largest EV manufacturer, recently partnered with DJI to develop the world's first vehicle-integrated drone. The EV maker's YangWang U8 SUV comes with his DJI drone, which has a launch platform integrated into the roof. The drone can be launched and landed from a retractable case. You can fly around the vehicle and click images and short videos of your electric SUV's journey to provide memories of your customer's journey. Once the electric SUV reaches its destination, the drone is programmed to return to the dock. The drone's movement can be controlled through a touchscreen display integrated inside the vehicle. It can also be charged through the built-in system.
bed
The campervan or home-on-wheels concept has been taken a step further with Chinese EV manufacturer XPeng's G9 SUV. It has an integrated bed that can sleep two people at the same time. The bed can be opened with a simple click on the EV's touchscreen display. Helps both the front and rear seats to lie completely flat. The seat is also equipped with a double-sized air mattress that automatically inflates to create a comfortable bed. This feature is also useful when customers need to wait for their electric SUV to charge during a trip.
kitchen and camping equipment
Kitchens and tents as add-ons are among other camping features that Chinese automakers offer on electric vehicles to attract customers who love outdoor experiences. Rox Motor Tech offers the Polestones 01 EV a camp-style kitchen with induction cooktop and water dispenser. The kitchen is attached to the rear of the EV. A roof-mounted sun canopy, or awning, is also included. It can be removed and stored when not in use. Li Auto's L series SUVs incorporate a seat massage feature that is only offered in high-end luxury cars.
game
US-based EV maker Tesla has already introduced this feature in its models. The in-vehicle gaming platform Steam was introduced in his 2022. His EV maker in China, Li Auto, also allows customers to connect his Nintendo Switch to their car's systems. BYD has also redesigned the steering wheel so that it can be removed to play video games on the in-car display. However, this feature is controversial regarding road safety. He is already under federal investigation in the United States. The in-car gaming feature offered in Chinese EVs allows customers to play only when the car is stopped and the engine is turned off.
fishing
Geely Automobile and its EV brand Zeekr are developing an integrated fishing system that includes a line and a hook. These EVs use location sensors to provide depth and current details of nearby bodies of water to find the best spots for fishing. We also provide equipment for casting and reeling in when you catch a fish.
First edition publication date: March 11, 2024, 11:38 AM IST
