Stories from Beijing · China

Researchers at Beigongyuan University have developed a new electroactive interface enhancement smart material that significantly increases adhesion strength. Researchers in China have developed a new smart material that increases motor efficiency by over 15%. This development is intended for high-precision equipment such as robotics and high-end medical devices. The material significantly reduces heat generation, enabling more stable continuous operation and improved energy savings. One tested product reached a maximum speed of 80,000 RPM. Testing shows the product can reach speeds of up to 80,000 RPM while significantly reducing heat generation. The system aims to measure societal adaptability during the transition to a smart era. The index consists of six major criteria groups and 21 core indicators.

Major corporations including Apple, BASF, Volkswagen, and Bosch are increasing their strategic presence in China. Recent announcements include a $3 billion expansion by one group and Novo Nordisk's expansion of its Guangzhou production base. These moves signal a shift from resource allocation to strategic development within the Chinese market.

Chinese automaker BYD reports a significant increase in demand across East Asia, Australia, and Europe. Stela Li, deputy head of the company, stated that pre-orders in Germany have nearly doubled during the first quarter of the year. This surge indicates a narrowing gap between Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers and their Western competitors.

Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers are rapidly closing the gap with established Western brands, adapting their designs and technology to better suit local driving habits and lifestyles. Companies like Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz are reportedly adopting concepts from Chinese competitors, indicating a significant shift in the global automotive market.

A patriotic collector named Zhang Boju sold his property and his wife's jewelry to acquire a painting for 200 taels of gold, preventing it from being lost overseas.

Despite external pressures like credit systems and elimination policies, the core issue of intrinsic learning drive remains unaddressed.

The Grand Canal, spanning approximately 2,000 kilometers, is the world's longest artificial waterway, significantly longer than the Suez and Panama Canals.

CNR Economic Voice broadcast discussed health and emotional well-being, focusing on training methods to improve emotional states and inner peace. Many people's life foundations are inseparable from their childhood. A case study involving two individuals escalated from mutual accusations and arguments to physical altercations, creating a negative cycle. CNR Economic Voice discussed how surrounding elements often feel beyond human capability, such as birds flying or deer running. The broadcast described the characteristics of the large alpaca, noting its size and inward-curving ears. The broadcast discussed social interactions and how to handle requests from others. It said the importance of detailed responses and observing the other person's actions.

Beijing has implemented new policies to increase the maximum refund amount for game purchases, raising the limit from 50,000 KRW to 220,000 KRW. The Shanghai Composite Index closed at 4164 points, up 1.27%, the Shenzhen Component Index at 15496 points, up 2.57%, and the ChiNext Index at 3700. China's central bank increased its gold reserves by 16 tons in March and continued this trend in April, coinciding with a rise in precious metal prices. Liu discovered he had signed a financing lease contract instead of a car loan, resulting in an annualized interest rate far exceeding normal car loans and a total repayment amount approximately 90,000 yuan higher than the vehicle's contract price. He was misled by sales consultants who did not disclose financing lease information. This represents a 13.8% increase compared to the same period last year.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang presided over a State Council executive meeting to review and pass draft amendments to the Administrative Penalty Law. Premier Li Qiang chaired a State Council executive meeting on April 17 to review progress on Free Trade Zone construction. The updates include provisions for prison management, execution of punishments, education and reform of criminals, and special regulations for juvenile offenders. China has revised its Prison Law, which consists of 8 chapters and 121 articles. China will implement a newly revised Prison Law effective November 1, 2026. The revisions cover general principles, prison operations, execution of punishments, administration, education of inmates, and special provisions for minors. The 14th National People's Congress Standing Committee passed revisions to the Prison Law on April 30.