Car Smoked After Being Drenched: Owner Filed Police Report, Road Trip Interrupted

On April 19, 2026, Geely launched presales of its i-HEV hybrid models – Xingyue L i-HEV and Xingrui i-HEV – in Urho, Xinjiang, as part of its ‘Cultural Tourism China Exploration Plan’. The Xingyue L i-HEV is priced between ¥148,700 and ¥162,700, while the Xingrui i-HEV ranges from ¥107,700 to ¥119,700. The company claims a thermal efficiency of 48.41% for the engine and WLTC combined fuel consumption of 3.98 L/100 km for the sedan and 4.75 L/100 km for the SUV.

The Zeekr 8X is a plug-in hybrid SUV with a combined range of over 1,200 km. It features a 2.0L engine, a 70 kWh battery, and an AI digital chassis with air suspension. The manufacturer highlights long-distance comfort, body rigidity, and driver assistance systems.

Chinese company Seres has patented a toilet built under a car seat and activated by voice command. The device features a ventilation system, a waste tank, and a heating function to evaporate liquid. The patent was registered in April, but the manufacturer has not yet announced the release of vehicles with this feature.

The German company Dethleffs has introduced the Globebus Performance 4×4 T16 motorhome. With a weight under 3500 kg, it can be driven with a standard category B driver's license, while its four-wheel drive and compact width of approximately 2200 mm provide enhanced off-road capability. The model's starting price is 94,999 euros.

From May 15 to 17, 2026, the Chengdu RV exhibition will feature two Chinese newcomers: the Manka No.1 Challenger on a Sinotruk chassis and the Tuku Shenlong Daxia based on the Changan Hunter pickup. Both models have a rigid pop-up roof.

A video of a homemade floating motorhome from China went viral in 2026, though the original was published in 2023. The structure is assembled from plastic sewer pipes, plywood and metal, equipped with an electric motor for land and water travel. The interior includes a sleeping area, television, cooking plate and tackle storage.