China’s Electric Cars Keep Improving, a Worry for Rivals Elsewhere

China's Electric Cars Keep Improving, a Worry for Rivals Elsewhere  The New York Times

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May 1, 2024 - 04:00
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China’s Electric Cars Keep Improving, a Worry for Rivals Elsewhere

China’s Electric Cars Keep Improving, a Worry for Rivals Elsewhere

Chinese Automakers Lead the Way in Electric Vehicle Innovation

More capable autonomous driving is just one way Chinese automakers are threatening to pull ahead — their E.V.s are also becoming bigger and roomier.

Introduction

Automakers in China are building a new generation of bigger, more technologically advanced and competitive electric cars, threatening to leap further ahead of their global rivals as they step up exports around the world.

Increased Appeal and Competitiveness

The dozens of car companies operating in China plan to put 71 new battery electric models on sale this year. Many new models have taller hoods for a bolder appearance and more storage space. The cars have bigger tires that improve braking. The seats are thicker and more comfortable. The batteries are ever smaller, more powerful and quicker to recharge.

These changes are aimed at making the cars even more appealing for customers in China and more competitive abroad. Along with plug-in hybrid cars, battery electric cars are taking sales away from gasoline-powered cars and their manufacturers.

Advancements in Self-Driving Technology

China is also moving ahead with the technology and regulations for self-driving cars. The authorities approved data security arrangements this week for more capable autonomous vehicles. They approved cars from Tesla, the American electric vehicle company that also builds and sells cars in China, as well as five Chinese manufacturers, including BYD, Tesla’s principal global rival, and Nio, a longtime player in China’s auto sector.

Government Support for Self-Driving Vehicles

The approvals show the Chinese government’s eagerness to push the development of self-driving vehicles, which are widely seen as central to future competitiveness in the car industry. The technology is more compatible with battery electric cars than with plug-in hybrids or gasoline-powered cars, and Chinese companies are trying to catch up with Tesla, the leader in these systems.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

  • SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
  • SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
  • SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
  • SDG 13: Climate Action

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

  • SDG 7.2: Increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.
  • SDG 9.4: Upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable.
  • SDG 11.2: Provide access to safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport systems for all.
  • SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

No specific indicators are mentioned in the article. However, potential indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets could include:

  • Percentage increase in the share of renewable energy in China’s energy mix.
  • Number of infrastructure upgrades and retrofits implemented in the automotive industry.
  • Percentage increase in the availability and usage of sustainable transport systems in China.
  • Inclusion of climate change measures in national policies and planning.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

SDGs Targets Indicators
SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy 7.2: Increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix. Percentage increase in the share of renewable energy in China’s energy mix.
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure 9.4: Upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable. Number of infrastructure upgrades and retrofits implemented in the automotive industry.
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities 11.2: Provide access to safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport systems for all. Percentage increase in the availability and usage of sustainable transport systems in China.
SDG 13: Climate Action 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning. Inclusion of climate change measures in national policies and planning.

Copyright: Dive into this article, curated with care by SDG Investors Inc. Our advanced AI technology searches through vast amounts of data to spotlight how we are all moving forward with the Sustainable Development Goals. While we own the rights to this content, we invite you to share it to help spread knowledge and spark action on the SDGs.

Fuente: nytimes.com

 

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