redefining luxury EVs with advanced tech and competitive pricing
The Stelato S9 is a product of Huawei and BAIC‘s collaboration under the Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance (HIMA). It intends to challenge established players like the Mercedes-Benz EQS. With a price range of 399,800 to 449,800 yuan (55,200 to 62,000 USD), the S9 combines advanced technology and refined design, targeting the executive sedan market with its competitive pricing and features.
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Exterior
From the outside, the S9 immediately impresses with its clean, minimalist design language, following the styling cues of the Luxeed S7 (see specs) and Aito M9 (see specs). The sedan’s aerodynamic efficiency is underscored by its drag coefficient of just 0.193 Cd. Its long dimensions—5160 mm in length, 1987 mm in width, 1486 mm in height, and 3050 mm wheelbase—grant it a commanding road presence. Features like frameless doors, smart electronic side mirrors, and the full-width taillight with a subtle ducktail spoiler contribute to its streamlined design. The sedan is further complemented by the choice of 20-inch or 21-inch wheels, adding a touch of sportiness.
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Interior
The S9 has a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 15.6-inch central touchscreen, creating a cockpit enhanced by the HarmonyOS 4 system. This system integrates seamlessly with Huawei’s ecosystem, allowing advanced connectivity and innovative functionality. Rear passengers aren’t left out, with features like a 13.2-inch Huawei tablet and an optional 32-inch in-car projector screen catering to entertainment needs. Practical touches, such as multiple wireless charging spots and front and rear Type-C ports, ensure convenience for all occupants.
The cabin prioritizes comfort with zero-gravity Nappa leather seats that offer heating, ventilation, and massage functions. These features, combined with the panoramic sunroof and ambient lighting, create a luxurious and relaxing environment. The 378-liter trunk and 38-liter frunk provide adequate storage, catering to daily and travel needs.
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Behind the Wheel
Our test car is the dual-motor variant, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds. Its 100 kWh battery supports a range of 721 km CLTC. Additionally, the 800V architecture allows for ultra-fast charging, adding 200 km of range in five minutes.
On the road, the S9’s air suspension and adaptive damping system shine, offering a balance of comfort and agility. Comfort mode delivers a plush ride, effortlessly soaking up road imperfections, while Sport mode sharpens the car’s responsiveness, making it engaging on winding roads. The dual-motor configuration provides ample power, ensuring smooth acceleration and confident overtaking, even at highway speeds. This capability makes the S9 equally adept at city commutes and long highway drives, catering to various driving preferences.
In more challenging scenarios, such as poorly maintained roads or sharp bends, the S9’s adaptive suspension system comes into its own, maintaining stability without sacrificing ride comfort. The sedan’s low center of gravity and precise steering enhance driver confidence, while the seamless power delivery ensures a refined and composed driving experience. The noise insulation also deserves mention, effectively isolating the cabin from wind and road noise, which adds to the overall sense of luxury.
The test drive highlights the advanced capabilities of the Huawei ADS 3.0 system. This system sets a benchmark in autonomous driving with its end-to-end human-like intelligence. It features a 192-line LiDAR with a detection range of up to 250 meters, enabling precise navigation in complex road conditions. Functions like pedal misapplication collision avoidance, adaptive emergency braking, and auto parking enhance safety and ease of use. The system transitions coherently between object recognition and scene understanding, offering a confident driving experience in urban and highway settings.
The S9’s performance in various driving scenarios demonstrates the collaboration between Huawei’s technology and BAIC’s manufacturing capabilities. Thanks to its adaptive braking and stability systems, the S9 maintains composure even in challenging conditions.
Verdict
In the competitive landscape of luxury electric sedans, the Stelato S9 stands out for its features and aggressive pricing strategy. Positioned as a direct rival to the Mercedes-Benz EQS, it offers comparable performance, technology, and luxury at a significantly lower price point.
The Stelato S9 test drive highlights its balanced performance, comfort, and advanced technology. The collaboration between Huawei and BAIC has produced a luxury electric sedan that meets expectations for this segment, offering a solid mix of features and capabilities.
Stay tuned for next week’s Sunday China Drive at Car News China, where you can read more first-person evaluations of Chinese cars.
