The Chinese automotive industry has been shaken up by HIMA, the collaborative effort between telecommunications powerhouse Huawei and car manufacturer Chery. The recently unveiled Luxeed R7 is not merely an additional plug-in hybrid SUV; as their inaugural extended-range electric vehicle (EREV), it’s causing quite a stir in the market.
The R7 fuses advanced electric vehicle technology with the opulence of a luxury SUV, and its most notable attribute is difficult not to notice: an impressive overall driving distance of 1,040 miles (1,673 kilometers). This stands out as one of the highest ranges available in today’s production SUVs. Consequently, this has drawn interest from those who frequently travel long distances rather than just navigating urban areas.
Prior to its official launch, the R7 had already sparked considerable excitement. As of March, HIMA reported that pre-orders exceeded 80,000 units, which is quite remarkable for the electric vehicle sector. The question remains: what’s driving this enthusiasm? It stems from a blend of Huawei’s sophisticated driver-assistance technologies and Chery’s reliable automotive architecture, resulting in a top-notch, technologically innovative SUV that appeals strongly to consumers.
Top-of-the-Line Features Centered Around Efficiency
The Luxeed R7 stands as a complete top-of-the-line SUV, measuring approximately 195 inches in length and 78 inches in width, featuring sleek aerodynamics with a minimal drag coefficient of only 0.247. This isn’t merely aesthetic; it significantly enhances fuel economy and driving range.
Beneath the surface, the R7 features an upscale suspension system, incorporating double wishbones at the front and multilink configuration at the back, complemented by available air suspension and adjustable dampers. This underscores HIMA’s intention to rival luxury SUVs regarding technology and comfort.
The powertrain combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor in an extended-range electric vehicle configuration. The R7 can travel up to 224 miles (360 kilometers) solely on electricity, making it suitable for the majority of everyday driving needs.
Quick, Efficient, and Budget-Friendly—at Least in China
There are two trims available for pre-order: the Max and the Ultra. The Ultra features a twin-engine configuration and accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in only 4.9 seconds, whereas the Max uses rear-wheel drive and prioritizes extended travel distance. Each trim includes Huawei’s most recent automated driving technology, ADS 3.0, which keeps them at the forefront of hands-free driving innovation.
The R7’s battery capacity stands at 53.4 kWh, with the Max and Pro versions offering an optional 37 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery. Priced starting at approximately $43,000 (or 318,000 yuan), the R7 competes well against high-end electric vehicle competitors in China.
Is It a New Type of SUV?
Blending technology, performance, and extended-range functionality, the Luxeed R7 aims not merely to join the ranks of electric SUVs but to establish itself as a high-end, long-haul hybrid designed for future generations of motorists. Although HIMA has not announced plans to introduce the R7 internationally, initial reactions within China indicate significant interest in top-tier electric vehicles that do not require sacrificing driving range.
If HIMA continues like this, they could end up reshaping the rules of the hybrid SUV market.