The Stelato S9: A New Contender in the Luxury Electric Sedan Market

In an era where electric vehicles are rapidly gaining traction, the Stelato S9 emerges as a formidable player in the luxury sedan segment. Born from the collaboration between Huawei and BAIC under the Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance (HIMA), the S9 is poised to challenge established giants like the Mercedes-Benz EQS. With a competitive price range of 399,800 to 449,800 yuan (approximately 55,200 to 62,000 USD), the S9 combines cutting-edge technology with refined design, targeting discerning consumers in the executive sedan market.

Striking Exterior Design

The Stelato S9 captivates at first glance with its clean, minimalist design language, drawing inspiration from the Luxeed S7 and Aito M9. Its aerodynamic profile is not just for aesthetics; the sedan boasts an impressive drag coefficient of just 0.193 Cd, enhancing its efficiency on the road. Measuring 5160 mm in length, 1987 mm in width, and 1486 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3050 mm, the S9 commands a significant road presence.

Key exterior features include frameless doors that add a touch of elegance, smart electronic side mirrors for enhanced functionality, and a full-width taillight complemented by a subtle ducktail spoiler. The choice of 20-inch or 21-inch wheels further accentuates its sporty demeanor, making the S9 a head-turner in any setting.

Luxurious and High-Tech Interior

Step inside the Stelato S9, and you are greeted by a sophisticated cabin that prioritizes comfort and technology. The vehicle features a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 15.6-inch central touchscreen, both powered by Huawei’s HarmonyOS 4 system. This integration allows for seamless connectivity with Huawei’s ecosystem, providing users with advanced functionality and convenience.

Rear passengers are not overlooked, as the S9 includes a 13.2-inch Huawei tablet and an optional 32-inch in-car projector screen, catering to entertainment needs during journeys. Practical touches, such as multiple wireless charging spots and front and rear Type-C ports, ensure that all occupants remain connected and comfortable.

The cabin is adorned with zero-gravity Nappa leather seats that offer heating, ventilation, and massage functions, creating a luxurious environment. A panoramic sunroof and ambient lighting enhance the overall ambiance, while the 378-liter trunk and 38-liter frunk provide ample storage for both daily use and travel.

Performance Behind the Wheel

The dual-motor variant of the Stelato S9 is a powerhouse, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds. Its 100 kWh battery supports an impressive range of 721 km (CLTC), making it suitable for both city commutes and long-distance travel. The 800V architecture allows for ultra-fast charging, enabling drivers to add 200 km of range in just five minutes.

On the road, the S9’s air suspension and adaptive damping system deliver a perfect balance of comfort and agility. In Comfort mode, the ride is plush, effortlessly absorbing road imperfections, while Sport mode sharpens the car’s responsiveness, making it engaging on winding roads. The dual-motor configuration ensures smooth acceleration and confident overtaking, catering to various driving preferences.

In challenging scenarios, such as poorly maintained roads or sharp bends, the S9’s adaptive suspension system excels, maintaining stability without sacrificing comfort. Its low center of gravity and precise steering enhance driver confidence, while excellent noise insulation effectively isolates the cabin from wind and road noise, contributing to the overall sense of luxury.

Advanced Technology and Safety Features

The Stelato S9 is equipped with Huawei’s ADS 3.0 system, setting a new benchmark in autonomous driving technology. This system features a 192-line LiDAR with a detection range of up to 250 meters, enabling precise navigation in complex road conditions. Safety features such as pedal misapplication collision avoidance, adaptive emergency braking, and auto parking enhance the driving experience, making it both safe and user-friendly.

The S9’s performance in various driving scenarios showcases the successful collaboration between Huawei’s technological prowess and BAIC’s manufacturing capabilities. With adaptive braking and stability systems, the S9 maintains composure even in challenging conditions, ensuring a refined and composed driving experience.

Verdict: A Strong Contender

In the competitive landscape of luxury electric sedans, the Stelato S9 stands out for its impressive 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 test drive of the Stelato S9 highlights its balanced performance, comfort, and advanced technology. The collaboration between Huawei and BAIC has resulted in a luxury electric sedan that not only meets but exceeds 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 and stay updated on the latest automotive innovations.