The Aito M8, the most recent offering from the collaborative efforts of Huawei and Seres, enters the competitive landscape as another luxurious sport utility vehicle originating from China. Positioned within the range-extender electric vehicle segment, the M8 carries a price tag spanning from approximately $50,800 to $63,200. While this price point might be considered substantial for a new vehicle within the Chinese market, early indications suggest a significant appetite among local consumers for this latest Aito model.
Remarkably, the automaker has reportedly amassed over 70,000 pre-orders for the M8 since pre-orders commenced on March 6th. This impressive figure has been achieved despite the official launch of the SUV being scheduled for the following month. The initial hours of pre-order availability witnessed an extraordinary surge in demand, with Aito reporting 7,500 reservations within the first hour, escalating to 21,000 within the initial six hours, and further reaching 28,000 within a mere twelve hours. This robust early reception underscores the potential market impact of the Aito M8.
While the Aito M8 is positioned as a smaller vehicle compared to its sibling, the M9, it is still classified as a full-size SUV within the Chinese market. Its dimensions measure 5,190 mm in length, 1,999 mm in width, and 1,795 mm in height, complemented by a substantial wheelbase of 3,105 mm. The design language of the M8 exhibits a sleek aesthetic, with its side profile drawing comparisons to the Mercedes-Benz GLS, a design association that is generally considered favorable within the automotive industry.
Powering the Aito M8 is a sophisticated powertrain configuration. A 1.5-liter turbocharged engine serves exclusively as a range extender, generating an output of 158 horsepower. This internal combustion engine is coupled with an electric motor positioned at the front axle, producing 221 horsepower, and an additional electric motor at the rear axle, delivering 304 horsepower. Prospective buyers have the option to choose between two battery pack sizes: a 36 kWh variant and a larger 51.9 kWh unit. These battery packs provide all-electric driving ranges of 201 kilometers and 310 kilometers, respectively. Notably, when operating with a fully charged battery and a full tank of fuel, the M8 boasts a claimed total driving range of up to 1,526 kilometers. Adding to its technological sophistication, the range-extender electric vehicle incorporates an 800-volt electrical architecture, enabling rapid charging capabilities. This advanced system allows for the addition of 150 kilometers of driving range with just five minutes of charging at a compatible high-speed charging station.
Mirroring the design philosophy of the M9, the interior of the M8 prioritizes technology and exudes a sense of premium luxury. The dashboard is dominated by three expansive screens, creating a visually striking and highly functional interface. A floating center console adds to the modern aesthetic, while two wireless charging pads cater to the convenience of occupants. Further enhancing the driver's experience is a 75-inch head-up display, projecting crucial information within the driver's line of sight. For rear passengers, an optional large display is available, providing entertainment and information. Aito offers the M8 with seating configurations of either 2+3 (two front seats and a three-seat rear bench) or 2+2+2 (two front seats, two middle row seats, and two third-row seats), catering to varying passenger capacity needs. All variants of the M8 come equipped with Huawei's advanced driver-assistance system, ADS 3.0. This comprehensive suite of safety and driver-aid technologies includes a LiDAR sensor, seven millimeter-wave radars, twelve ultrasonic radars, and eleven high-definition cameras, working in concert to provide a high level of driver support and enhance overall vehicle safety.