Huawei and BAIC are pinning their hopes on a new extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) version of their Stelato S9 high-end sedan to revitalize sluggish sales. Following disappointing initial figures, the Stelato S9 EREV has applied for a sales license in China, signaling its imminent arrival in the market, projected for April. This move comes after the initial launch of the all-electric Stelato S9 in August 2024, which fell significantly short of its ambitious sales target. While Huawei and BAIC initially aimed to move 120,000 units annually, the Stelato S9 has only managed to deliver a meager 3,008 vehicles to customers. The primary culprit for this underwhelming performance is the sedan's hefty price tag of 399,800 yuan ($54,850), making it a less competitive option in the crowded Chinese electric vehicle market. The introduction of a more affordable EREV variant is clearly intended to address this price sensitivity and broaden the S9's appeal.
The Stelato S9 EREV largely mirrors the design language of its all-electric counterpart. The most notable distinguishing feature is the addition of a fuel filler cap on the rear right fender, a clear indication of its extended-range capabilities. The EREV retains the distinctive styling cues of the BEV model, including the striking gauntlet-shaped headlights and the prominent air intake in the front bumper. Other shared design elements include retractable door handles, a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor, and multi-spoke wheels. The rear of the vehicle also features gauntlet-shaped taillights, echoing the front-end design. An intriguing option available on the Stelato S9 EREV is the replacement of traditional side-view mirrors with cameras, further emphasizing its focus on technology and innovation.
In terms of dimensions, the Stelato S9 EREV measures 5160mm in length, 2005mm in width, and 1486mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3050mm. It offers wheel options in R20 or R21 sizes. The front and rear track widths are 1706mm and 1738mm, respectively. The approach and departure angles are 13 and 15 degrees, providing some insight into its ground clearance and potential off-road capabilities, although it's primarily designed for urban environments. The curb weight of the Stelato S9 EREV ranges between 2300 and 2350 kg, reflecting the substantial size and technology incorporated into the vehicle.
Under the hood, the Stelato S9 EREV features a BAIC-produced 1.5-liter turbocharged A156T2H engine generating 158 horsepower. Interestingly, this same internal combustion engine (ICE) also serves as a generator in the BAIC BJ60 Thunder body-on-frame SUV. It's crucial to understand that in the Stelato S9 EREV, this engine does *not* directly drive the wheels. Instead, it functions solely as a generator, providing power to the battery and the electric motor, effectively extending the vehicle's range.
Perhaps the most compelling aspect of the Stelato S9 EREV is its remarkable fuel efficiency. According to WLTC testing, the variant equipped with a CATL-made ternary NMC battery boasts a fuel consumption rate of just 0.25 liters per 100 km. A more budget-friendly version, utilizing an LFP battery pack also from CATL, achieves a slightly higher fuel consumption of 0.51 liters per 100 km. However, the precise battery capacities for both versions have not yet been disclosed.
The Stelato S9 EREV comes standard with a single electric motor mounted on the rear axle, delivering a peak power output of 304 horsepower. This configuration allows the vehicle to reach a top speed of 204 km/h. Notably, the EREV variant of the Stelato S9 does not offer a four-wheel-drive option. This decision likely reflects Huawei and BAIC's ongoing efforts to minimize production costs and offer a more competitive price point, potentially attracting a wider range of buyers. The absence of 4WD further reinforces the focus on efficiency and urban driving.