Seres Group Chairman Zhang Xinghai shared his insights on building luxury vehicles, emphasizing that simply accumulating hardware is insufficient to achieve true luxury status. He believes that while external design and dimensions can be replicated, and components sourced externally, genuine luxury arises from a deeper integration of technology and a unique brand philosophy.
The “Methodology” Behind AITO’s Luxury Aspirations
Zhang Xinghai articulated the ‘methodology’ Seres employs in its pursuit of luxury vehicles, particularly with its AITO brand. He stated, “External appearances can be imitated, dimensions can be copied, and parts can be procured, but it’s difficult to create a luxury car solely by stacking hardware.” This statement highlights a strategic focus beyond mere specifications.
AITO’s Core Strength: A Native Integrated System
The chairman pointed to AITO’s advantage lying in its ‘whole vehicle native system.’ This refers to the deep integration of technologies from partners like Huawei and CATL within Seres’ proprietary ‘Magic Cube’ platform. According to Zhang, critical components such as Huawei’s intelligent driving and cockpit systems, along with CATL’s battery technology, undergo synchronized simulation, calibration, and verification alongside the vehicle’s core architecture. This co-development approach ensures a cohesive and optimized user experience, a hallmark of premium automotive engineering.
“The cooperation with Huawei and CATL is not a simple traditional procurement relationship between a host factory and suppliers, but a partnership of business co-construction, technology co-creation, and commercial co-win.” – Zhang Xinghai
This collaborative spirit extends beyond typical supplier-manufacturer dynamics. Zhang described the relationships as synergistic, fostering shared development of business strategies, joint innovation in technology, and mutually beneficial commercial outcomes. This integrated approach is seen as crucial for differentiating AITO vehicles in a competitive market.
AITO M9 Ultimate Extended Edition Enters Delivery Phase
In a significant development, the AITO M9 Ultimate Extended Edition commenced its nationwide delivery on September 12th at the Seres Super Factory in Longxing. This marks a tangible step forward in Seres’ luxury vehicle strategy.
The Ultimate Extended Edition is available in two configurations: a spacious five-seater model priced at 649,800 yuan and a six-seater model at 659,800 yuan. These models represent the culmination of Seres’ efforts to integrate advanced technology with premium design and comfort, aiming to capture a segment of the luxury automotive market.
The emphasis on ‘native systems’ and collaborative development suggests a strategy that moves beyond the conventional approach of simply equipping vehicles with the latest gadgets. Instead, Seres, in partnership with tech giants like Huawei and battery leader CATL, is focusing on creating a deeply integrated, technologically advanced, and holistically designed luxury experience. This philosophy, championed by Zhang Xinghai, positions AITO as a challenger in the premium automotive space, aiming to deliver true luxury through intelligent design and seamless technological integration.
