Aito M8 Update Adds Level 3 Driving and 830 km Range

Updated SUV Opens Pre-Sales With New Driving Architecture

Aito M8 update pre-sales will begin September 30, with the refreshed SUV gaining architecture designed for Level 3 autonomous driving across the lineup. The Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance (HIMA) said the vehicle also adopts Huawei's Qiankun ADS 5 and a next-generation omnidirectional sensor-fusion system. HIMA reiterated that Aito remains part of the alliance and that the refreshed model was jointly designed and developed by Seres and Huawei. The announcement follows earlier changes to the cooperation structure within HIMA, making the technology package and continued involvement of both companies important aspects of the refreshed SUV.

Five-Seat and Six-Seat Configurations Continue

The refreshed SUV will retain both five-seat and six-seat configurations, according to its regulatory filing. Its exterior dimensions also remain unchanged, measuring 5,190 mm in length, 1,999 mm in width and 1,795 mm in height, with a 3,105 mm wheelbase. The unchanged dimensions indicate that the refresh is focused on technology, powertrain specifications and equipment rather than a fundamental change to the vehicle's body structure. Buyers will therefore continue to have access to the same two seating layouts while receiving the updated autonomous-driving architecture and sensor-fusion technology announced for the latest version.

EREV Version Retains Dual-Motor Powertrain

The extended-range electric vehicle version continues with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine paired with dual electric motors. The engine produces a maximum 118 kW, while the front and rear motors deliver peak outputs of 170 kW and 227 kW, respectively. Two battery capacities are available at 75.408 kWh and 56.036 kWh. Depending on configuration, the larger battery provides electric-only driving ranges of 365 km or 358 km, while the smaller battery supports 256 km. These specifications preserve the EREV configuration while giving buyers different battery and electric-range combinations within the refreshed lineup.

BEV Version Offers Up to 830 km of Range

The battery-electric version uses front and rear motors rated at peak outputs of 160 kW and 227 kW, respectively. Its battery choices are 120.04 kWh and 97.644 kWh, while the maximum driving range reaches 830 km. The combination of dual-motor propulsion and a large battery pack keeps the BEV version positioned as the long-range configuration in the lineup. The revised specifications also give the model a distinct technical profile from the EREV variant, which combines a gasoline engine with electric propulsion and offers multiple electric-only range configurations.

Model Remains a Major Sales Driver

The SUV has become an important contributor to Aito sales, with cumulative deliveries exceeding 180,000 units as of August 6. The model originally launched in April 2025 and was initially offered exclusively with an extended-range powertrain. A battery-electric version followed in August 2025, expanding the lineup to cover both propulsion formats. The latest refresh therefore builds on a relatively recent product rather than replacing an aging generation. Its delivery volume gives the updated version an established customer base as it enters pre-sales with changes focused on autonomous-driving capability, sensor technology and powertrain specifications.

HIMA Role and Cooperation Structure

HIMA has emphasized that Aito remains a member of the alliance despite an announced exploration of a new cooperation model earlier in September. The revised arrangement is led by Seres, with support from Huawei, after questions emerged about how the change could affect Huawei's involvement and Aito's position within HIMA. The alliance has now stated that the refreshed vehicle was jointly designed and developed by the two companies. That clarification places the latest product launch within the continuing relationship between Huawei and Seres while the cooperation model evolves.

Pricing and Previous Refresh

The model currently starts at 359,800 yuan, equivalent to about $53,370, in China. Before the latest announcement, the SUV had already received an update at Huawei's spring product launch event in March, although that change was primarily focused on adding exterior color choices. The September refresh is broader, adding the Level 3-oriented architecture, Qiankun ADS 5 and next-generation omnidirectional sensor fusion while also revising powertrain specifications. Pre-sales beginning September 30 will provide the next commercial milestone for the refreshed lineup as detailed specifications and configurations move toward market availability.

Industry Impact & Outlook

The refresh strengthens the technology content of an established Chinese SUV by combining advanced driver-assistance hardware and software with both EREV and BEV propulsion choices. For Seres and Huawei, the launch also demonstrates continued product cooperation while the structure of their HIMA relationship evolves. The most immediate market significance is the expansion of Level 3-oriented architecture across the lineup, alongside a BEV configuration capable of up to 830 km of range. Customer response during pre-sales should provide an important indication of demand for the revised technology package and powertrain mix as the model continues competing in China's premium electric SUV segment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main changes to the updated Aito M8?
The refreshed SUV adds Level 3 autonomous-driving architecture, Huawei's Qiankun ADS 5 and next-generation omnidirectional sensor fusion across the lineup. It continues with five-seat and six-seat configurations while retaining EREV and BEV powertrain choices. The EREV version uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with dual motors, while the BEV version also uses dual motors and offers up to 830 km of range. Pre-sales begin September 30, and the model currently starts at 359,800 yuan in China.