Smartphone maker Foxconn unveils EV for Taiwan brand Yulon

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Unlocking Word Meanings

Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.

  1. modify / ˈmɒd əˌfaɪ / (v.) – to change parts of something such as a car, computer, etc. to improve its look or use
    Example:

    Should I just modify my old car or buy a new one?


  2. venture / ˈvɛn tʃər / (n.) – a new business, project, or activity that may be risky
    Example:

    I hope everything goes well with our new business venture.


  3. crowded / ˈkraʊ dɪd / (adj.) – having too many things or people
    Example:

    Buses and trains are crowded during rush hour.


  4. redefine / ˌriːdɪˈfaɪn / (v.) – to give a new meaning to something, usually by making some improvements or developments to it
    Example:

    Social media is redefining the way we connect and communicate with each other.


  5. headquartered / ˈhɛdˌkwɔr tərd / (adj.) – having the main office of a company or an organization located in a particular place
    Example:

    Our company is headquartered in Tokyo.


Article

Read the text below.

The company that assembles smartphones for Apple Inc. and other global brands unveiled an electric SUV on Oct. 18 that will be produced for a Taiwanese automaker under a similar contract model.


Foxconn Technology Group said the SUV will be sold by Yulon Motor as the Luxgen n7 starting next year. It said the five-seat vehicle should be able to travel 700 kilometers (440 miles) on one charge. No price was announced.


Foxconn, also known as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., plans to produce electric cars and buses for brands in China, North America, Europe and other markets. It said clients can modify their appearance and features.


The venture adds to a crowded global market with electrics offered by almost every established automaker and dozens of ambitious startups.


“Hon Hai will certainly redefine the EV industry,” company founder Terry Gou said in a statement.


Foxconn, headquartered in New Taipei City, Taiwan, is the world’s biggest contract assembler of smartphones and other consumer electronics.


Yulon, founded in the 1940s, assembles vehicles for Nissan Motor Co. and other automakers. The company launched its own brand, Luxgen, in 2009.


The Luxgen n7 is one of five proposed models for potential customers.


Foxconn also displayed a five-seat crossover, the Model B, and a five-seat double-cab pickup truck, the Model V.


The company previously announced plans for a sedan developed with Italian design house Pininfarina and an electric bus, the Model T.


This article was provided by The Associated Press.


Viewpoint Discussion

Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.

Discussion A

  • Foxconn said that it will allow customers to modify the appearance and features of the electric vehicles. If you were to order an electric vehicle from the company, what modifications would you like to make (ex. add a remote control, change the sound system)? Discuss.
  • Foxconn is known for assembling smartphones, but it’s now venturing into the automotive industry. What do you think of the company’s decision (ex. risky, innovative)? Discuss.

Discussion B

  • Foxconn’s venture adds to a crowded global market with electrics offered by almost every established automaker and dozens of ambitious startups. Why do you think the company is still willing to get into this venture? Discuss.
  • In your opinion, what can startups with a business similar to others do to stand out (ex. offer more affordable products, target a specific group)? Discuss.