The automotive world is buzzing, and it is all thanks to the Aito M8 EREV. This “smart family flagship” SUV from Aito has taken China’s EV market by storm, racking up an astounding 70,000 pre-orders in just two weeks since its March 6 pre-sale launch. With an official launch slated for April, the M8 is priced between 368,000 to 458,000 yuan (about 50,800 to 63,200 USD). Early birds who put down a 5,000 yuan (690 USD) deposit even snagged a 10,000 yuan (1,400 USD) discount.
The demand for the Aito M8 is nothing short of incredible. Within the first hour of pre-sales, orders soared past 7,500 units, hitting 21,000 within six hours and then a staggering 28,000 in just twelve hours. It is clear this vehicle has struck a chord with consumers looking for a blend of range, technology, and family-friendly practicality.
| Metric | Value | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Power (Range Extender) | 118 | kW (158 hp) | 1.5T engine |
| Front Electric Motor | 165 | kW (221 hp) | |
| Rear Electric Motor | 227 | kW (304 hp) | |
| Top Speed | 200 | km/h | |
| CLTC Pure Electric Range | 201 / 310 | km | Depending on battery |
| Comprehensive Range | 1,526 | km | Full charge and fuel tank |
| Battery Capacity | 36.019 / 51.975 | kWh | LFP or Ternary Lithium by CATL |
| Fast Charging (800V) | 5 minutes for 150 km | — | |
| WLTC Fuel Consumption | 0.52 | L/100km | Lowest official |
| Length | 5190 | mm | |
| Width | 1999 | mm | |
| Height | 1795 | mm | |
| Wheelbase | 3105 | mm | |
| Starting Price | 368,000 | CNY | ~50,800 USD |
Sizing Up the Competition
The Aito M8 neatly slots into the brand’s lineup as a medium-to-large SUV, sitting comfortably alongside its siblings, the M5, M7, and M9. These models span a broad price range, from 200,000 to 600,000 yuan (27,600 to 83,000 USD), making Aito a significant player in China’s diverse EV landscape. The M8’s generous dimensions, 5190/1999/1795 mm with a 3105 mm wheelbase, promise ample interior space for families.
Cutting-Edge Tech Under the Hood
One of the M8’s biggest draws is its integrated technology, particularly the Huawei ADS 3.0 advanced driving system. This sophisticated suite includes a 192-line lidar, seven millimeter-wave radars, 12 ultrasonic radars, and 11 high-definition cameras. This hardware allows the ADS to accurately identify not only common obstacles like vehicles and pedestrians but also unusually shaped objects, enhancing safety and driving confidence. Huawei’s influence on Chinese EV makers is becoming increasingly profound, with its advanced systems becoming a key differentiator, as seen in models like the Deepal S07 SUV with Huawei Qiankun ADS SE and the Aito M9’s high-tech refresh.
Powertrain Perfection: EREV and Battery Innovation
The Aito M8’s EREV (Extended Range Electric Vehicle) powertrain is a marvel of efficiency and power. It pairs an 1.5T engine, acting as a range extender with 118 kW (158 hp), with a potent electric motor setup: a 165 kW (221 hp) front motor and a 227 kW (304 hp) rear motor. This combination delivers brisk performance, evidenced by a top speed of 200 km/h, all while achieving an incredibly low WLTC fuel consumption of 0.52L/100km. For long journeys, the comprehensive range of 1,526 km with a full charge and fuel tank means range anxiety is a thing of the past.
Battery technology is another highlight. The M8 offers two CATL-supplied battery options, either lithium iron phosphate or ternary lithium, with capacities of 51.975 kWh and 36.019 kWh respectively. These provide a CLTC pure electric range of 310 km and 201 km. The innovative “Giant Whale” battery pack structure is particularly impressive, reducing wiring harnesses by 80% and thickness by 16.4%. Plus, its 800V high-voltage fast charging system can add 150 km of range in just five minutes, rivaling some of the best charging speeds on the market. CATL continues to push boundaries in battery development, with innovations like their “factory in factory” concept driving efficiency in manufacturing, as highlighted in this article.
Interior Comfort and Versatility
Step inside, and the Aito M8 welcomes you with a symmetrically designed cockpit. The familiar sight of triple screens and a massive 75-inch head-up display immediately grabs your attention, promising a tech-forward and engaging driver experience. Versatility is also key, with both 5- and 6-seater layouts available to suit various family needs. While the full details of the interior configurations are yet to be revealed, the initial offerings suggest a strong focus on passenger comfort and convenience. For a look at how other manufacturers are embracing spacious interiors, check out the Onvo L90 interior reveal.
The Aito M8 EREV is shaping up to be a formidable contender in China’s fiercely competitive SUV market. Its impressive blend of range, advanced technology, and family-oriented design clearly resonates with buyers, as evidenced by its phenomenal pre-sale success. As the official launch approaches, all eyes will be on Aito to see just how much impact this “smart family flagship” will make.
