Dongfeng Motor Corporation has begun manufacturing the new hydrogen-powered crossover Venucia V-Online, as reported by CarNewsChina. The model draws its design cues from the Venucia Ve concept car, which was unveiled at last year’s Guangzhou Auto Show. In terms of size, the Venucia V-Online measures 4658 mm in length with a 2850 mm wheelbase, sitting in the compact crossover segment. It uses a hydrogen fuel cell system that drives a 217-horsepower electric motor, delivering a top speed of about 165 km/h. For Canadian and American readers, the hydrogen-electric setup signals a growing trend toward zero-emission crossovers with practical drive dynamics and refueling considerations familiar to fleets and urban drivers alike. The hydrogen variant is priced from 999 thousand yuan, which is roughly 140,000 to 150,000 USD depending on exchange rates at purchase time. Citation: carnewschina.com
Dongfeng has outlined a clear production and sales ambition for the coming years. The company plans to roll out two new models annually and targets annual sales of 300,000 vehicles, with the strategic aim of expanding to 500,000 units as the lineup broadens and hydrogen and other electrified technologies gain traction in global markets, including North America. Citation: carnewschina.com
In related news, prior industry chatter indicated the Chinese car brand Exeed was preparing to introduce five new products to the Russian market in 2024. These plans envisioned the Exlantix family of fully electric vehicles making a debut in Russia, alongside a hybrid variant of the Exeed RX and the expansion of LX and TXL crossover lines. While these announcements target the Russian market, they illustrate the broader push by Chinese brands to diversify electrified offerings across regions, potentially influencing international supply chains and regional trade dynamics that matter to buyers in North America. Citation: carnewschina.com
Earlier developments also noted that the Wey V71 crossover had reportedly received Vehicle Type Approval (VTA) in Russia, signaling regulatory progress for new entrants in the region. For North American readers evaluating international EV options, these developments highlight the evolving landscape of Chinese automakers expanding into global markets with hydrogen, hybrid, and fully electric models. Citation: carnewschina.com