Huawei introduced a new electric vehicle (EV) aimed at competing with Tesla, the Luxeed S7. Priced at 258,000 yuan ($35,400) during the presales phase, the Luxeed S7 officially hit the market on November 28, as announced during a press conference.
Richard Yu, Huawei's consumer chief, revealed the stylish sedan in Shenzhen, highlighting its potent high-voltage battery pack. Yu has asserted that the S7 would outperform Tesla's Model S in all specifications. However, automotive industry commentator Mark Rainford in Shanghai expressed reservations about such comparisons, citing incomplete performance metric disclosures. Rainford did acknowledge the S7's standout feature, an 800-volt platform facilitating rapid charging, distinguishing it from Tesla's current technology.
The S7's 800-volt battery pack, reputedly the thinnest in the industry, is supplied by Chinese EV battery giant CATL. According to Yu, a 15-minute charge yields a driving range of 400 kilometers (249 miles), surpassing Tesla's Model S by 53 kilometers (33 miles) after a similar charging period.
Despite recognizing the S7's potential edge in range, Rainford noted Tesla's advantage in China due to its robust Supercharger network. He emphasized that ease of finding charging stations is crucial.
The Luxeed S7, priced at $35,400, offers a more affordable alternative to Tesla's basic Model S, which costs $95,800 in China. Tesla has responded to heightened competition in China by reducing its prices.
Huawei, initially renowned as a tech and telecom giant, faced challenges due to US export restrictions. Eager to make a comeback, the company entered the electric vehicle market in 2021. The S7 is part of Huawei's broader strategy, which includes an electric SUV developed with another Chinese automaker, Seres, called the Aito M9. The company has showcased its commitment to female consumers with the S7, incorporating features such as a designated cosmetics drawer, a mirror for makeup touch-ups, and storage for high heels.
