A Familiar Look with an Electric Twist
Huawei’s luxury EV brand, Aito, is expanding its lineup with the reveal of the all-electric Aito M8 SUV, set for an August launch. This move comes hot on the heels of the extended-range (EREV) version that has already seen significant success in the Chinese market. The new model shows Huawei is serious about capturing a larger piece of the premium electric vehicle space.
The pure electric M8 doesn’t stray far from the established “interstellar matrix” design of its EREV sibling. The most noticeable change is a cleaner front end, featuring a new dotted-pattern grille that gives it a distinct, more futuristic vibe. It’s a subtle but effective way to signal its all-electric heart. The dimensions remain unchanged, offering a commanding presence at 5190 mm long and with a 3105 mm wheelbase. This means plenty of room inside, with both five and six-seat layouts available to suit different family needs. A key benefit of going all-electric is the addition of a spacious front trunk, adding a dose of practicality for daily use and road trips.
| Metric | Value | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Range (CLTC) | 705 | km | Chinese standard; real-world range may vary |
| Battery capacity | 100 | kWh | Supplied by CATL |
| Battery Platform | 800V | — | Huawei “Whale” high-voltage platform for faster charging |
| Dimensions (L/W/H) | 5190/1999/1795 | mm | Identical to the EREV version |
| Wheelbase | 3105 | mm | Long wheelbase for spacious interior |
| Starting price (EREV) | 359,800 | CNY | For the range-extended model; EV price to be announced |
Under the Skin: Huawei’s 800V Powerhouse
At its core, the Aito M8 is a showcase of Huawei’s automotive technology. The SUV is built on the company’s “Whale” 800V high-voltage platform, which is a big deal. In simple terms, this architecture allows for significantly faster DC charging, getting you back on the road quicker. All versions of the pure electric M8 will pack a 100 kWh battery from CATL, one of the world’s leading battery suppliers. The combination promises a very competitive CLTC range of 705 kilometers.
Power comes from Huawei’s own seven-in-one electric drive system, with buyers able to choose between rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. The M8 will also be one of the first vehicles to launch with Huawei’s advanced ADS 4.0 autonomous driving system, underscoring the company’s push to lead in smart vehicle technology. It’s clear Huawei isn’t just a supplier; it’s integrating its tech deeply, much like it has with the Deepal S07.
Aito’s Critical Role for Huawei’s Automotive Ambitions
You can’t talk about the new M8 without looking at the success of its predecessor. The Aito M8 EREV launched to incredible fanfare, racking up over 140,000 orders before sales even began and exceeding 20,000 deliveries in June alone. This success has cemented Aito as a major player in China’s competitive market.
The brand’s performance is crucial for Huawei’s broader strategy. Huawei’s car-making alliance, HIMA, which includes brands like Aito, Luxeed, and Stelato, recently ranked as the second-largest new energy vehicle manufacturer in China for the first half of the year, just behind Leapmotor and ahead of Li Auto. However, Aito is doing most of the heavy lifting, accounting for a staggering 80% of HIMA’s sales with 154,000 units sold. With the pure electric M8, Huawei is betting it can keep the momentum going and solidify its position as a dominant force in the EV landscape. Just like the all-new Aito M7, which also saw a massive wave of pre-orders, the M8 BEV is poised to make a significant impact.
