China-based Aito, an electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer jointly established by Huawei and Seres, has announced 50,000 orders for its M7.
The milestone was reached just 25 days after the M7 sports utility vehicle (SUV) relaunch on September 12. It is available at a price range of CN¥249,800.00 to CN¥329,800.00 ($34,200.00 to $45,200.00).
All five versions of the M7 SUV come CN¥40,000.00 ($5,500.00) cheaper than when they were first introduced. Aito also gave away a perk package worth CN¥33,000.00 ($4,500.00) to anyone who placed their order last month.
M7 also comes with a cash fund of CN¥12,000.00 ($1,650.00) for buying interior and exterior optional equipment. Buyers can also choose one of three CN¥15,000.00 ($2,000.00) add-ons: 21-inch wheel hubs, a fee-free NCA pilot, or additional equipment.
Huawei Smart Car CEO Richard Yu said the orders placed Aito among China’s five top-selling new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturers. He further stated that the success solidifies the three-way collaboration of Aito, Huawei, and Seres.
Together with the successful launch of the Mate 60 Pro series, the M7 model’s record-breaking sales amplify Huawei’s comeback. Despite not manufacturing electric cars, the smartphone brand has become a significant player in the Chinese EV market.
Aito is collaborating not just with its parent company, Huawei, and Seres. It also partnered with other automakers, including Changan, BAIC, and Chery.
Huawei Branches Out as Aito Soars
Analysts consider the success of the Aito M7 a breakthrough amid technology sanctions on Chinese companies by the US. Huawei has rallied patriotic consumer support using its 100.00% domestically made smartphone chip.
Leveraging domestic support, Huawei disrupted China’s electric car industry with its intelligent automotive solution business. In the first half of 2023, this segment reported CN¥1.00 billion in revenue, 0.32% of the company’s CN¥310.90 billion earnings.
Though automotive artificial intelligence (AI) is one of Huawei’s most minor divisions, it has one of the fastest growth rates. In December, the brand will launch the Aito M9 SUV, which it touts as superior to Tesla’s Model S.
