Here are the top automotive technologies for 2024

Vehicles have been aggressively becoming technologically progressive in the past few years. In 2024, we have seen our fair share of advanced automotive features that show us how far we have come in the industry. 

And now that there is only a month left before the year ends, we would like to review the top five automotive technologies we witnessed this year. 

Range extenders

While the concept of a range extender was first seen on the Nissan Kicks e-Power, several hybrid vehicles that follow the same trend have either been previewed or launched in the Philippine automotive arena this year. 

These vehicles use the internal combustion engine only as a generator for the electric motor instead of being the main drive component. As a result, they become more eco-friendly and fuel-efficient. 

Here is a list of this year’s vehicles that use range extenders: 

BYD Sealion 6 DM-i

Electric motor	Permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM)
Internal combustion engine (ICE)	1.5-liter gasoline engine
Maximum power output (in hp)	214
Maximum torque (in Nm)	325
Range electric motor (in km)	105
Range with ICE (in km)	1,100

 

BYD Seal 5 DM-i 

Electric motor	PMSM
ICE	1.5-liter gasoline engine
Maximum power output (in hp)	194
Maximum torque (in Nm)	325
Range electric motor (in km)	Up to 115
Range with ICE (in km)	Up to 1,240

 

Changan Hunter REEV 

Electric motor	Dual electric motors (front and rear wheel axles)
ICE	2.0-liter gasoline engine
Maximum power output (in hp)	268
Maximum torque (in Nm)	470
Range electric motor (in km)	180
Range with ICE (in km)	1,031

 

Rox 01

Electric motor	Dual electric motors (front and rear wheel axles)
ICE	1.5-liter gasoline engine
Maximum power output (in hp)
Maximum torque (in Nm)
Range electric motor (in km)	235
Range with ICE (in km)	Over 1,000

 

Seres 7 

Electric motor	Single or dual electric motors
ICE	1.5-liter gasoline engine
Maximum power output (in hp)	Up to 318
Maximum torque (in Nm)	Up to 654
Range electric motor (in km)	Up to 166
Range with ICE (in km)	Up to 1,200

Rotating screens 

Another technological feature that has made some noise in 2024 is the rotating screen found on various BYD cars. These displays appear to come straight out of the Cyberpunk 2077 videogame, which can be adjusted to suit the needs of its owners. 

In portrait mode or when vertically aligned, the infotainment display can give the driver a better view of various navigation applications like Google Maps or Apple’s Maps app. On the other hand, the person sitting in the front passenger seat can enjoy entertainment programs like Spotify or Apple Podcasts. 

Further, these screens can be used with gesture controls — pretty much like smartphones and tablets. For example, swiping the screen with three fingers allows quick and easy adjustment of the car’s temperature and fan speed. 

V2L charging 

Vehicle-to-load or V2L is a technology that allows electric vehicles (EV) to recharge smaller appliances. This makes electric cars a more viable option for buyers who either enjoy going out on spontaneous camping trips or simply those with an “always be ready” attitude. 

Below are some of the models in the Philippines that have V2L technology: 

• Hyundai Ioniq 5
• Hyundai Ioniq 6 
• Kia EV6
• Nissan Leaf 

V2L charging works by delivering energy to small appliances like rice cookers, electric grills, and induction stoves for those who might want to camp while still enjoying the comfort of modern cookers. Likewise, it can power portable electric fans and lighting systems, which can add a layer of convenience to weekend getaways. 

Further, the ability to power the said appliances in electric outage scenarios can prove to be helpful to would-be owners of EVs with V2L functionality. 

360-degree cameras 

More and more vehicles have started to sport 360-degree cameras in 2024. The abundance of crossovers and sport utility vehicles appears to have spurred the proliferation of this technology, which can help owners in various situations. 

A 360-degree view system uses cameras and sensors built around the vehicle. For example, the GAC M6 Pro we tested in July had a multi-view camera that can be useful when parking the multi-purpose vehicle in tight spots. 

Meanwhile, driving the Ford Ranger Wildtrak 4X4 we reviewed last month in narrow roads was like a walk in the park thanks to this technology. 

BYD Cars Philippines takes it a step further with the Seal 5 DM-i’s see-through mode, which allows the driver to see what’s under the vehicle when the aforementioned feature is activated. 

Accompanying applications 

This year, we have seen several car brands roll out smartphone applications that have been designed to improve the overall experience of their customers. 

BYD Cars Philippines has launched its mobile phone app, which lets owners of BYD cars monitor the status of the vehicles in real-time. Information like location and battery condition can be checked using the application. 

Other examples include Ford Philippines’ Ford Pass and Honda Cars Philippines’ Honda Connect. 

While some of these applications have been launched some years before, many owners have started using them in 2024 as vehicles offered by manufacturers have become smarter. 

Final thoughts 

As an automotive journalist, one of the perks of our work is to see how the industry evolves. While we are still several steps behind first-world countries, the technologies offered by the vehicles being introduced to the Philippines show that the local automotive landscape is progressing. 

That said, we are excited to see what the future holds for Filipino motorists. 

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