Jia Yueting's car manufacturing endeavors are undoubtedly one of the most talked-about topics in the automotive industry. He has persisted for over a decade, and while his company has not gone bankrupt, it can hardly be considered a success. This alone is quite fascinating.

Moreover, whenever Faraday Future (FF) faces a desperate situation, investors always seem to emerge to provide some financial support, extending its life. This is nothing short of a miracle within a miracle. Hence, FF has managed to stay afloat but is perpetually short of funds.

After more than a year of FF91 production, Jia Yueting decided to launch a second brand, FX, with plans for two models: FX5 and FX6.

Jia Yueting asserts that FX aims to be the "Toyota of the AIEV era," offering AIEV products with "double the performance at half the price." FX will no longer be exclusively pure electric; Jia Yueting plans to introduce China's popular extended-range technology to the United States.

Frankly, many believe that pursuing extended-range vehicles in the US is perhaps a very sound choice.

Firstly, gasoline is relatively inexpensive in the US. For many Americans, fuel costs are not a concern, so the disadvantage of extended-range vehicles not being fuel-efficient is effectively nullified.

Secondly, the US is vast with a sparse population, and charging infrastructure is not as developed. The market for pure electric vehicles is not as large as anticipated. In such a scenario, extended-range vehicles, which can run on both electricity and gasoline, naturally have more advantages.

Thirdly, extended-range vehicles combine the advantages of electric and gasoline vehicles. They are driven by electricity but can be refueled easily, making them a convenient option. Many believe that if extended-range vehicles are introduced in the US, they may sell exceptionally well.

However, there are concerns about whether Jia Yueting has the financial means to launch extended-range vehicles. Developing a car from scratch requires billions of dollars, and Faraday Future's account actually only holds a few million dollars.

Later, Jia Yueting announced that he had raised an additional $30 million, which is still only over $200 million. This seems insufficient for mass-producing extended-range vehicles.

Unexpectedly, FF has already teased the FX5 prototype, which has arrived at FF's China headquarters. The vehicle will depart from Beijing for FF's headquarters in Los Angeles. Jia Yueting previously stated that the FX 5 would be priced at $20,000-$30,000 (approximately RMB 140,000-210,000).

This SUV-styled vehicle features a short front end and a steeply inclined windshield, suggesting a short front and rear overhang with a long wheelbase. It is equipped with Michelin tires, indicating good performance and ample space. It will be available in both extended-range and pure electric versions.

According to previous plans, the first FX model, FX5, is expected to roll off the production line by the end of 2025. Now that the prototype exists, is its launch and market release far off?

Some speculate that this so-called prototype might be a model developed in collaboration with a domestic automaker or a sample vehicle produced by a contract manufacturer. The actual cost may not be high.

Jia Yueting needs to take this prototype to the US to seek funding from investors. If funding is secured, the project will proceed; if not, it may stall.

Therefore, the crucial question is: Can Jia Yueting raise funds with this prototype? If not, how will the FX5 be manufactured?