The automotive world is set to be shaken as AITO, a brand born out of the collaboration between tech giant Huawei and automaker Seres, introduces its luxury offering: the AITO 5, an electrified sports vehicle going for the global market, writes Tim Barnes-Clay.
Set up in 1986, Seres has become a leading company in new energy vehicles with around 20,000 staff members. Listed on the A-share market, the company is ranked 92nd on the Fortune China 500, which shows its far-reaching influence in the industry. The name Seres is derived from the Greek for "the land of silk," symbolising a rich heritage with an eastern origin.
To date, Seres has shipped over 550,000 units to over 70 markets and regions, such as Germany, France, and the UK. It has established a competence centre in Amsterdam to address local needs, and in Southeast Asia, it has an Indonesian manufacturing facility. It has plans for other centres around the world, too.
The AITO 5, a mid-size sports SUV, is the brand's most powerful model, skillfully combining next-generation technology with, according to the brand, thrilling performance and, as we witnessed, elegant styling.
Unveiled at the Munich-based IAA Mobility 2025 show, the AITO 5 five-seater version caught everyone's attention. AITO officials highlighted that this high-performance SUV is perfectly positioned for both the Middle Eastern as well as European markets, and it has an outstanding range-extender technology with a remarkable energy conversion rate of 3.44kWh/L. This technology provides a very broad range of as much as 702 miles on WLTP, and worries about running out of charge on long trips are effectively eliminated.
The advanced range extender improves performance according to driving behaviour and weather conditions, boasting a high thermal efficiency of 41%. The AITO 5 also features a two-motor four-wheel-drive producing a massive 489hp of power and 675Nm of torque, apparently enabling spectacular 0-62 mph acceleration in just 4.3 seconds. Its 100% aluminium alloy body promises a unique driving experience, reportedly providing agility and a splash of luxury - though only verified by real-world testing. Double wishbone front suspension and multi-link back suspension systems suggest stability and accurate handling, too.
In the cabin, comfort is the order of the day, with ten layers of cushioning and thick 100mm foam in the first-class-style chairs. The front seats have 12-way power adjustment, as well as heating, ventilation, massage function, and memory for a personalised level of comfort. There is a 128-colour lighting system, which enables you to personalise the ambience, with a panoramic sunroof that has an electric sunshade for a ventilated experience.
Safety is always a big deal - and the AITO 5 hasn't skimped on it, with advanced features incorporated into its body, battery system, and active safety features. Indeed, constructed using over 60% high-strength steel, the car clearly has a high safety factor.
AITO's exterior styling certainly attracts attention with its futuristic appearance. The highlights are distinctive Falcon Eye LED headlights discreetly added into a seamless front grille, supported by sporty air intakes and aerodynamic lines. The rear features a spoiler and wing-shaped LED taillights, culminating in a beautiful visual effect.
The plan for AITO is transparent: The AITO 5 will be marketed as the most versatile model released outside China, where it will be available both in electric and range-extended form in some territories. Mind you, rumour has it that its European debut will favour the extended-range electric version as it prepares a broader launch in this region.
Leon He, President of Seres Auto, explained the brand's ambitions: "AITO is set to be a 'glocal' brand. At IAA Mobility 2025, we bring to the market a truly globalised product family and open up a new strategic milestone in our globalisation process. This pursuit of redefining 'new luxury' in the age of intelligence is supported by our cutting-edge technology and breathtaking accomplishments in China."
Before launching its global expansion, which will hopefully see the AITO 5 enter the UK market, the company is establishing a subsidiary in the UAE to showcase its full model lineup. Keep reading about the AITO 5 here at Regit. Additionally, be sure to check out our coverage of the AITO 7 and AITO 9.
