The landscape of high-end luxury SUVs is evolving, traditionally dominated by German and British brands. The introduction of the new AITO M9 from SERES, in collaboration with Huawei, signifies a shift in this paradigm. This SUV combines elegance and advanced technology, offering luxury akin to Bentley at a more accessible price, though it should not be mistaken for a budget option.
AITO, the upscale offshoot of SERES, has meticulously analyzed the market. SERES develops its own electric motors and hybrid powertrains suitable for a range of vehicles. AITO's focus is on ultra-luxury, particularly targeting buyers from competitors such as the BMW X7 and Range Rover Autobiography or SV. For those prioritizing luxury over brand prestige, the M9 is a compelling option.
Design
The M9's appearance is striking, featuring a completely aluminum body that achieves a balance of structural integrity and weight reduction. Measuring 205.9 inches in length and 78.7 inches in width, it commands a substantial presence in the full-size luxury market. With a height of 70.9 inches and a wheelbase of 122.4 inches, it promises ample interior space. Remarkably, despite its dimensions, the M9 also boasts a low drag coefficient of 0.264 Cd, comparable to many sports sedans.
The M9 also showcases innovative features like “Dual Million-Pixel” intelligent headlights that illuminate dark environments and project images or messages onto nearby surfaces, demonstrating its technological prowess.
The imposing size of the M9 is apparent upon approach, as it conveys a sense of agility while remaining fearsome. Its multi-layer paint glistens with a unique sparkle, leaving a strong first impression.
Interior
Inside the M9, the partnership with Huawei leads to a remarkably digital environment. The dashboard features an expansive triple-screen layout: a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a 15.6-inch central control screen, and a 16-inch entertainment display for the front passenger. This seamless glass interface rivals the “Hyperscreen” of the latest Mercedes models, powered by Huawei's advanced Harmony OS 4.0.
Under the surface, the vehicle employs Huawei's latest ADS 2.0 system, incorporating a 192-line LiDAR sensor, mmWave radars, and high-definition cameras to navigate complex urban environments autonomously without relying on detailed maps— a significant advancement in self-driving technology.
The emphasis on luxury transcends technology in the M9, with soft Nappa leather and Alcantara/materials elegantly integrated throughout the cabin. The steering wheel, though compact, feels luxurious and well-crafted. Every seat offers massage features, while double-glazed windows and active soundproofing create a peaceful atmosphere. A 25-speaker premium audio system provides an unparalleled listening experience.
Special attention has been given to the rear seats, designed for ultimate comfort. A projector screen descends from the ceiling, transforming the back area into a private cinema, doubling as a divider for enhanced privacy. The rear seating configurations can recline and feature extending footrests, while the front passenger seat can fold forward to create a business-class sleeping arrangement.
The third-row seats are similarly comfortable, and optional folding “event seats” in the trunk enhance the versatile seating options, akin to features found in the Rolls-Royce Cullinan. A well-equipped refrigerator in the center console adds a final touch of luxury, accommodating two bottles of Champagne.
Features
The AITO M9 is available as either a battery electric vehicle or a range-extended electric vehicle (RE). The battery version boasts an impressive range of up to 390 miles, powered by a 100 kWh battery pack, delivering 530 horsepower that accelerates this imposing SUV from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.2 seconds.
The RE model is designed for long distances, utilizing SERES's efficient 5th-generation “Super Range Extender” technology—a 1.5-liter generator that recharges the battery while driving. With optional 42 kWh or 52 kWh battery packs, the M9 achieves a total range of 932 miles with a full charge and a tank of gas, conveniently bridging the gap between London and Vienna without stops.
This system boasts exceptional efficiency, generating 3.65 kWh of electricity per liter of fuel with a thermal efficiency of 44.8%. Operating quietly, it achieves a 90% noise reduction compared to older generators. The drivetrain also allows for independent wheel drive, enhancing stability on varied surfaces like ice and dry roads.
Ride quality remains distinctly smooth thanks to an intelligent chassis featuring air suspension and Continuous Damping Control (CDC), which dynamically adjusts the shock absorbers. Surprisingly, the M9’s turning radius is just 5.8 meters, thanks to rear-wheel steering, providing agility on city streets.
What is most striking about the M9 is its impressive quality, which showcases SERES and Huawei's expertise despite being a relatively new brand. If the badges were removed, distinguishing the M9 from luxury vehicles such as Mercedes, BMW, or Range Rover would be difficult. Currently, it may not yet rival the likes of Bentley or Rolls-Royce, but as the first generation of luxury SUVs from this manufacturer, future iterations could adequately challenge these prestigious brands.
Equally astonishing is the price range for the AITO M9, retailing between 470,000 and 570,000 Chinese Yuan, which converts to approximately $65,000 to $80,000. This price point provides substantial value when stacked against similarly equipped Range Rovers, which can be two to three times more expensive.
The M9 is quickly gaining traction, already outselling established luxury brands in China and eyeing expansion into the Middle East. Although a US launch date remains uncertain due to current geopolitical factors, the AITO M9 is poised for a future in Europe, indicating that the gap between established Western luxury and Chinese innovation has not only closed but is gradually reversing.
