Ford Motor's F-150 Lightning was the best-selling electric pickup truck in the U.S. last year. Still, Ford dropped it, showing the challenges automakers face in learning what kinds of EVs customers want. Now, companies are pivoting to extended-range electric vehicles, or EREVs. Ford and Stellantis' Ram, as well as newcomer Scout Motors are scheduled to start delivering EREV models through 2027. "I'll say it's a game changer, even a segment-buster in the pickup world," said Douglas Killian, chief vehicle syn ...

Core Insights - The article highlights a significant disparity between two state-owned enterprise (SOE) electric vehicle brands in China: Changan Automobile's Deep Blue and Dongfeng Automobile's Yipai, with Deep Blue emerging as the market leader in the mainstream new energy vehicle segment [2][3][11] Group 1: Market Positioning - Deep Blue has launched 6 models and delivered over 400,000 units, while Yipai has only 2 models with deliveries below 80,000 [2][4] - Deep Blue entered the market earlier in 2018, targeting young consumers, while Yipai was launched in April 2023, making it the newest brand among SOE new energy vehicles [3][4] - In 2024, Deep Blue is projected to sell 243,900 units, a 78.14% increase year-on-year, solidifying its status as a "dark horse" in the new car market [3] Group 2: Product Strategy - Deep Blue's product strategy includes a diverse range of energy options, including pure electric, range-extended, and hydrogen versions, with the range-extended model being a key driver of sales [6][10] - Yipai's initial offerings have been less competitive, with its first model, the eπ007, launching later and primarily focusing on pure electric versions [6][11] Group 3: Resource Allocation - Deep Blue benefits from strong support from its parent company, Changan Automobile, which provides shared manufacturing platforms and sales channels, allowing it to focus on product development [7][8] - Yipai, while positioned as a key player for Dongfeng, has not received the same level of support due to the company's focus on high-end brands [8][11] Group 4: External Collaborations - Deep Blue has established extensive partnerships in battery technology, smart driving systems, and chip development, enhancing its competitive edge [9][10] - Yipai's collaborations have been limited, with a recent agreement with Huawei that has yet to yield significant results [10][11]