Huawei and BAIC Motors launched the Stelato S9 electric sedan, available in S9 Max and S9 Ultra versions.
Huawei has broadened its presence in the electric vehicle (EV) market with the introduction of the Huawei Stelato S9 electric sedan, developed in partnership with BAIC Motors. This move follows Xiaomi’s debut in the automotive sector with its electric car, the SU7, highlighting a trend among Chinese electronics companies branching into automotives. Huawei, traditionally known for its digital communications technology, is now making significant strides in the EV market with the launch of the Stelato S9.
The dimensions of the Stelato S9 place it as one of the larger sedans in the market, with a length of 5,160 mm, a width of 1,987 mm, and a height of 1,486 mm, surpassing the size of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Long-Wheelbase version. Available in China in two models, S9 Max and S9 Ultra, the Stelato S9 starts at a base price of 399,800 yuan, roughly equivalent to INR 47 lakhs. The entry-level model features a single-motor setup producing 304 bhp, while the higher-end dual-motor version delivers 516 bhp with All-Wheel Drive (AWD) capabilities, though the top speed for both is limited to 214 kmph.
The collaboration between Huawei and BAIC Motors, a stalwart in the Chinese automobile industry, represents their first joint venture, realized through the Stelato S9. This sedan showcases advanced features like an aerodynamic body, darkened lights, retractable door handles, LIDAR for enhanced driving support, camera-based side mirrors, and large alloy wheels.
For battery options, the Stelato S9 offers 79.9 kWh and 97.6 kWh choices, supporting a range exceeding 650 kilometres on a single charge.
The official unveiling of the Stelato S9 marks Huawei’s clear pivot towards the automobile industry, focusing on cutting-edge technology and design amidst an estimated industry value nearing USD 500 billion. Preceded by teaser images on Chinese social media throughout 2024, this launch underscores Huawei’s strategic expansion within the EV domain. This model complements Huawei’s existing EV portfolio, including the SERES SF5 and Aito M5, as the joint venture with BAIC Motors combines Huawei’s tech prowess with BAIC’s automotive manufacturing expertise, hinting at further collaborative endeavours in the future.
With the Stelato S9, Huawei is venturing into the EV arena, leveraging its technological innovation to make significant inroads into the automotive sector, pointing to an exciting future for the industry.
