AITO likes to think of itself as being a luxury SUV brand - and who are we to doubt that, writes Tim Barnes-Clay.
It possesses a product portfolio of midsize and large-midsize SUVs, and the new Chinese marque states that it's determined to become a worldwide market player and join the global luxury car top 10.
Beyond China, AITO is currently strongly targeting the UAE market, but it's building a global luxury car top 10.
Beyond China, AITO is currently strongly targeting the UAE market, but it's building a global luxury brand for the long term, including Europe. AITO includes both pure electric and range-extender technology paths.
Founded in December 2021, AITO, which Seres owns, stands for "Adding Intelligence to Auto." The company says it combines "Traditional Luxury and Technological Luxury", which results in an untapped niche in the new energy vehicle (NEV) market.
AITO achieved 100,000 units coming off the production line in just 15 months, becoming the fastest NEV brand to reach this milestone. Cumulative sales of over 770,000 units on four models as of August 2025 have been recorded by AITO since it began in the local market. Of these, the AITO 9 model, the company's flagship, has sold over 226,000 units since its start in late 2023 and continued as China's 500,000-yuan premium passenger car sales leader for 17 straight months.
The AITO 9 combines world-leading technology and comfort, and according to AITO officials we spoke with at the IAA Mobility show in Munich, its industry-leading performance will redefine mobility for the new era.
The vehicle we checked out was the five-seater version (there is a six-seater available, apparently) with a Midnight Black external paint finish and a brown colour scheme inside. When it comes to dimensions, the AITO leaders explained that the AITO 9 is 5,230mm long, 1,999mm wide, and 1,800mm high, with a wheelbase of 3,110mm, striking a balance between spaciousness and manoeuvrability.
We could only have a look at - and sit in - a static display model, so we can't tell you yet how the luxury SUV drives. However, AITO leaders explained that the AITO 9 delivers excellent performance in every circumstance, striking a balance between power, efficiency, and agility.
Spurred by an extended-range powertrain, the vehicle's power is 489hp and has a top torque figure of 675Nm, with a total range of up to 810 miles and a zero-emission range of up to 141 miles. The 0-62mph speed is said to be only 4.9 seconds, faster than cars with a 3.0-litre turbocharged unit in the same size class. For comparison, the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV could be considered a rival in the electrified world when and if the 9 does arrive in the UK.
The interior trim is white ash wood with Nappa leather upholstery, and there are adjustable crystal knobs - that shout 'luxury'! The front passenger seat folds forward, sliding automatically right up to the front, leaving a gap for the rear occupants. The second row of this car is also equipped with a 32-inch entertainment screen, allowing passengers to enjoy movies and games. Additionally, the rear backrest can recline to a wide angle, in combination with a seat leg rest, which will enable occupants to sleep flat comfortably.
Taking a closer look, the AITO 9 seems to prioritise occupant safety with smart structural design, battery protection, and top-of-the-line safety features. AITO bosses tell us it's made with submarine-grade steel, the same ultra-high-strength metal that's used in submarines, and achieved the highest score on record in China's crash testing. Great news for us all - but particularly for those of us with families - safety is a top priority when purchasing a new car after all.
The AITO 9 also features advanced intelligent systems for a connected, intuitive driving experience. Plus, cruise control and lane centring control comprehensively complement driving assistance in a safety-oriented way. Parking and manoeuvring are also reported to be made easy by the 360-degree around view monitor with transparent chassis visibility, and backed by autonomous parking assist with remote and reverse parking.
AITO 9's styling is a fusion of purity and infinity that captures light through simplicity as much as elegance. The Galaxy headlights and Starlight taillights cleverly combine light and darkness, creating a dynamic movement. This design can be tailored to fit lots of patterns, reflecting the owner's personality, and is supported by aerodynamic lines.
The 9 includes fold-down tables typically found in luxury SUVs from China, and the cockpit boasts a front panoramic wraparound screen, complemented by a powerful 2,500-watt sound system.
Let's hope we can get a drive of this magnificent monster if and when it's launched here. All signs are that it will - after all, what's the point of inviting us British hacks in to view it, eh?
