- Introduction
- Huawei’s Leap in Autonomous Driving: The “Map-Free NCA”
2.1. Features and Enhancements in the V3.3.8 Update
2.2. Deployment and Availability - Huawei and Seres: A Strategic Partnership
3.1. Financial Performance and Market Impact
3.2. The Aito M7 and M9: Spearheading Sales - The Aito M9: A Closer Look
4.1. Design and Aesthetics
4.2. Interior and Technology
4.3. Powertrain and Performance - AITO: The Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance
5.1. The Vision and Mission
5.2. Manufacturing and Sales Strategy - Innovative Features and Market Positioning of the Aito M9
6.1. Advanced Lighting and Safety Technologies
6.2. Luxury and Technology Integration
6.3. Performance Metrics and Electric Versatility
6.4. Market Implications and Availability
Introduction
In the rapidly evolving landscape of the global automotive industry, China’s technological advancements and strategic partnerships are setting new benchmarks. Among the key players, Huawei Technologies has emerged as a formidable force, leveraging its expertise in telecommunications and technology to redefine the electric vehicle (EV) sector. This article delves into Huawei’s innovative strides in autonomous driving technology, its strategic partnership with Seres in car manufacturing, and the launch of the Aito M9—a luxury electric SUV that encapsulates Huawei’s vision for the future of mobility.
Huawei’s foray into the automotive industry is not just a diversification strategy but a testament to its resilience and adaptability in the face of international trade challenges. By collaborating with Seres, Huawei has successfully navigated the complexities of the EV market, introducing cutting-edge technologies and smart driving solutions that promise to enhance the driving experience and safety. The introduction of the “Map-Free NCA” feature in the AITO Wenjie M5 and M7 models marks a significant milestone in a # utonomous driving, offering city driving assistance without the need for high-precision maps.
As we explore the intricacies of Huawei’s partnership with Seres, the financial dynamics, and the technological marvel that is the Aito M9, it becomes evident that Huawei’s ambitions extend far beyond telecommunications. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Huawei’s endeavors in the automotive sector, highlighting the synergy between technology and mobility, and the potential implications for the global EV market.
Huawei’s Leap in Autonomous Driving: The “Map-Free NCA”
2.1. Features and Enhancements in the V3.3.8 Update
Huawei’s introduction of the “Map-Free NCA” (Navigation Control Assistant) in the V3.3.8 smart driving version for its AITO Wenjie M5 and M7 models represents a significant leap forward in the realm of autonomous driving technology. This innovative feature enables city driving assistance without the reliance on high-precision maps, a breakthrough that significantly enhances adaptability and flexibility in various urban environments. The “Map-Free NCA” is a testament to Huawei’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of intelligent driving systems.
The V3.3.8 update encompasses a suite of enhancements and new features aimed at improving the driving experience. Among these are the Enhanced Lane Cruise Control (LCC Plus), Lateral Obstacle Collision Prevention (LOCP), and the Intelligent Follow-the-Vehicle Speed Limit Function. Additionally, the update introduces Special Vehicle Model Recognition, the Smart Driving Status Island Function, and support for the Huawei Smart Driving App. Other notable features include the Enhanced Traffic Capability Switch, Valet Parking Function (AVP), and an improved Automated Parking Assistance (APA), alongside various optimizations and bug fixes aimed at refining user experience.
2.2. Deployment and Availability
Initially, the “Map-Free NCA” feature was made available to a select group of 200 owners of the AITO Wenjie M5 and M7 models. Following this pilot phase, Huawei commenced the second batch of updates, with plans to gradually extend the feature to all owners subscribed to the ADS 2.0 advanced feature package. Despite a slight delay from the initially announced deployment timeline, Huawei successfully rolled out the feature across all 338 cities in Mainland China by February 1, 2024.
Huawei’s HarmonyOS Smart Travel has announced that by the end of the year, Huawei ADS will undergo an upgrade to support the “Map-Free NCA” under the motto “Drive everywhere, the more you drive, the better it gets.” This upgrade is expected to leverage Huawei’s significant investments in cloud computing power and AI cluster training, rapidly evolving the capabilities and experiences of intelligent driving.
The “Map-Free NCA” smart driving assistance, now operational on highways, elevated roads, and expressways nationwide, is underpinned by the GOD (General Obstacle Detection) network and the RCR (Road Cognition & Reasoning) network 2.0 technology. These technologies enable the system to achieve a 99% obstacle recognition rate and autonomously understand complex road conditions, marking a pivotal advancement in the evolution of autonomous driving technologies.
Huawei and Seres: A Strategic Partnership
The collaboration between Huawei Technologies and Seres, a subsidiary of Chongqing Sokon Industry Group, marks a strategic pivot for Huawei into the electric vehicle (EV) sector. This partnership, initiated in the wake of Huawei being placed on the US’ Entity List in 2019, signifies Huawei’s resilience and adaptability, leveraging its technological prowess to venture into new markets. The alliance between these two companies has been instrumental in the development and launch of the Aito-branded vehicles, showcasing a blend of Huawei’s cutting-edge technology and Seres’ manufacturing capabilities.
3.1. Financial Performance and Market Impact
The partnership has yielded promising financial outcomes, particularly with the surge in sales of the latest Aito EV models. Seres reported a significant narrowing of losses up to 45 percent for 2023 over the previous year, attributing this improvement to the strong sales performance in the final quarter. The introduction of the revamped Aito M7 SUV in September, followed by the M9 in December, played a crucial role in this success. The M7 model alone garnered 130,000 orders within four months of its launch, contributing to a full-year revenue increase of up to 7 percent, reaching 36.5 billion yuan ($5bn, £4bn) for 2023.
Despite the initial challenges, including delivery delays due to overwhelming demand, the strategic focus on the EV market has begun to bear fruit. Seres’ expectations of reduced losses for 2023, ranging between 2.1bn yuan and 2.7bn yuan, down from 3.8bn yuan in 2022, underscore the positive trajectory. The company attributes the ongoing losses to investments in research and development, marketing costs, and the underperformance in sales during the first three quarters. However, the outlook remains optimistic, with projections of enhanced profitability driven by the continued success of the M7 and M9 models.
3.2. The Aito M7 and M9: Spearheading Sales
The Aito M7 and M9 models have been at the forefront of this strategic partnership’s success. The M7’s rapid sales growth and the M9’s promising market entry underscore the consumer appetite for high-tech, luxury EVs. Huawei’s venture into the EV market, in collaboration with Seres, represents a significant bet on the future of mobility. The Aito brand, embodying the synergy between Huawei’s technological innovation and Seres’ manufacturing expertise, has quickly established itself as a formidable player in the competitive Chinese EV landscape.
The strategic partnership between Huawei and Seres is a testament to the potential of collaboration between technology companies and traditional automobile manufacturers. By combining their strengths, Huawei and Seres have not only navigated the challenges of entering a new market but have also set new benchmarks for innovation and performance in the EV sector. As the partnership continues to evolve, it holds the promise of further advancements in smart driving technologies and sustainable mobility solutions, contributing to the broader transformation of the automotive industry.
The Aito M9: A Closer Look
The Huawei Aito M9 stands as a testament to the innovative partnership between Huawei and Seres, marking a significant milestone in the luxury electric SUV market. This section delves into the design, technology, and performance aspects of the Aito M9, highlighting its position as a flagship model that blends luxury with cutting-edge technology.
4.1. Design and Aesthetics
The Aito M9’s exterior design is a bold statement of Huawei’s tech-driven vision, incorporating the “Kunpeng Zhanyi” design language that features sharp lines and futuristic elements. The vehicle’s silhouette is characterized by triangular headlights, flush-fitting door handles, and a gently sloping roofline, all contributing to its aerodynamic efficiency and visual appeal. The M9’s design ethos is further accentuated by the availability of five color options and the distinctive HIMA logo on the D-pillars, signifying its connection to Huawei’s dedicated car showrooms.
Aerodynamics play a crucial role in the M9’s design, with the EV version boasting a drag coefficient of 0.264 Cd, and the EREV version at 0.279 Cd. This focus on aerodynamics not only enhances the vehicle’s performance but also contributes to its energy efficiency.
4.2. Interior and Technology
The interior of the Aito M9 is a marvel of technology and luxury, offering a spacious and comfortable environment for passengers. The cabin features a symphony of screens, including a 15.6-inch main infotainment display, a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, and a dedicated passenger screen. The inclusion of a 75-inch AR-HUD (Augmented Reality Head-Up Display) projects vital information onto the windshield, enhancing the driving experience with digital immersion.
The M9’s interior is not just about visual appeal; it also prioritizes practicality with 41 strategically placed storage compartments and a cavernous 25.3 cubic-feet trunk. The vehicle’s seats, adorned with plush Nappa leather, are configured in a 2+2+2 layout, ensuring comfort for all passengers.
4.3. Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the Aito M9 offers two distinct powertrain options to cater to different driver preferences. The pure electric variant features dual electric motors producing a combined 390 kW, powered by a 97 kWh CATL battery pack. This setup delivers a range of 391 miles under China’s CLTC testing cycle and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds.
For those seeking extended range without range anxiety, the M9 also offers a range-extender variant. This configuration combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with electric motors, delivering a total of 365 kW. The engine acts as a generator, charging the 42-kWh or 52-kWh CATL batteries as needed, providing a combined range of 846-871 miles.
The Aito M9’s aluminum-intensive chassis and state-of-the-art air suspension, coupled with a sophisticated CDC (Continuous Damping Control) system, ensure a dynamic driving experience that balances agility and comfort.
AITO: The Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance
The establishment of AITO, a joint venture between Huawei and the vehicle manufacturer Seres Group, represents a strategic move in the automotive industry, blending Huawei’s technological prowess with Seres’ manufacturing capabilities. AITO, which stands for “Adding Intelligence To Auto,” is the first brand under the Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance (HIMA), a collaborative effort aimed at integrating Huawei’s full-stack intelligent vehicle solutions with traditional auto manufacturing expertise. This alliance is a cornerstone of Huawei’s strategy to navigate and lead in the smart mobility sector.
5.1. The Vision and Mission
The vision behind AITO and the broader HIMA initiative is to revolutionize the automotive industry by infusing vehicles with advanced technology, thereby enhancing safety, efficiency, and the overall driving experience. By leveraging Huawei’s expertise in telecommunications, AI, and software development, AITO aims to set new standards for intelligent vehicles, making them more connected, autonomous, and user-friendly. The mission is not just to produce cars but to create intelligent mobility solutions that cater to the evolving needs of modern consumers.
5.2. Manufacturing and Sales Strategy
AITO vehicles are manufactured by Seres, while Huawei contributes major parts, software, and technological support. This symbiotic relationship allows for the seamless integration of Huawei’s cutting-edge technology into vehicles designed and built by Seres. Huawei’s role extends beyond manufacturing, as it also takes the lead in selling AITO vehicles. These vehicles are available for purchase in Huawei flagship stores across China, showcasing the tech giant’s commitment to this venture.
The AITO model line, which includes the M5, M7, and the newly released M9, exemplifies the successful collaboration between Huawei and Seres. Each model is a testament to the potential of combining traditional automotive manufacturing with modern technology, setting new benchmarks for performance, safety, and intelligence in vehicles.
In March 2023, AITO was briefly rebranded as “Huawei AITO” before the decision was made to remove all promotional materials related to Huawei from AITO stores. This move, along with Huawei’s acquisition of the AITO trademark in the Chinese language (问界/Wenjie) from Seres Group, underscores the dynamic nature of the partnership and Huawei’s strategic approach to branding and market positioning.
In conclusion, AITO and the Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance represent a bold step forward in the convergence of automotive manufacturing and technology. By harnessing the strengths of both Huawei and Seres, AITO is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of intelligent mobility, offering consumers innovative and smart driving solutions that redefine the concept of automotive luxury and performance.
6. Innovative Features and Market Positioning of the Aito M9
6.1. Advanced Lighting and Safety Technologies
The Aito M9 introduces a suite of advanced lighting and safety technologies that set new standards in the automotive industry. The vehicle’s triangular headlights, a hallmark of the M series, are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional. These headlights are capable of providing directed illumination and even displaying films, thanks to their precision of up to 1.2 meters. This feature, combined with the ability to recognize both vehicles and pedestrians, underscores Huawei’s commitment to safety and innovation. The integration of the Huawei ADS 2.0 system further enhances the vehicle’s safety capabilities, offering a comprehensive suite of assistance features.
6.2. Luxury and Technology Integration
Inside the Aito M9, luxury meets technology in a harmonious blend that redefines the concept of a luxury SUV. The vehicle’s interior is adorned with Nappa leather seats arranged in a 2+2+2 configuration, offering unparalleled comfort and style. The central console features three digital screens, including a 15.6-inch driver’s display, a 16-inch passenger screen, and a 12.3-inch instrument cluster. The inclusion of a 75-inch AR-HUD, powered by Huawei’s Harmony OS, transforms the windshield into a large display, enhancing the driving experience with augmented reality. The audio system, comprising 25 speakers with the option to add four additional 10-inch screens for second and third-row passengers, ensures an immersive auditory experience.
6.3. Performance Metrics and Electric Versatility
The Aito M9 is available in two variants: EREV (Extended Range Electric Vehicle) and EV (Electric Vehicle), catering to different consumer preferences for electric mobility. The pure electric version utilizes dual electric motors with a combined output of 390 kW and a 97 kWh CATL battery, achieving a range of 630 km and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. The EREV variant adds a 1.5-liter petrol engine as a generator to the electric motors, offering an electric range of up to 275 km on a single charge and a total range of up to 1402 km with the generator. This versatility ensures that the Aito M9 can meet the needs of a wide range of consumers, from those seeking pure electric driving to those requiring extended range capabilities.
6.4. Market Implications and Availability
The Aito M9 is not just another electric SUV; it is a bold statement in the luxury SUV market, indicating the direction in which the automotive industry is heading. By combining Huawei’s technological strength with Seres’ manufacturing experience, the Aito M9 emerges as a symbol of innovation, luxury, and performance. However, its availability is currently limited to the Chinese market, positioning it as a luxury electric vehicle that competes with both traditional internal combustion engine SUVs and electric models from leading brands. With its advanced features and strategic positioning, the Aito M9 is poised to influence the future trajectory of the luxury SUV segment.