As the Chinese EV market slowly reaches boiling point, one model is turning heads without making wallets tremble: the AITO Wenjie M5 just got a refresh. The "standard" version is now priced at a reasonable RMB 249,800 (€ 3,300), a savings of RMB 30,000 (€3 ,900) compared to the Smart Driving edition. Pre-sale deals are also available, reducing the cost by an additional RMB 10,000 (€1,300). The "standard" M5 comes in two models: rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. Regardless of the chosen model, AITO is promising an EV loaded with features and with a smooth driving experience.
The M5 now boasts lenses rather than the
old-school reflective bowl, offering a more powerful beam for those nighttime
adventures. Plus, the car's overall drag coefficient has been improved. Pair
this with an improved thermal efficiency range extender (a 1.5T engine), and
you've got an EV with very long range. Drive from Shanghai to Beijing on a
single tank of petrol - or 1,455 km - how's that for efficiency? Although, as usual
- a pinch of salt or two is required here, these are CLTC numbers.
The M5 is not just about external
improvements; the interior has received some love too. And for those who live on
their smartphones, rejoice: the M5 features dual 40W super wireless fast
charging. Comfort during long drives is crucial, and the M5 has you covered.
With a seat cushion that boasts a high-resilience sponge at double the
thickness, your backside will be thanking you. The car's brain is the
Huawei-provided Harmony Cockpit 3.0. Its seamless operation, user-friendly
interface, and intelligence make it one of the best in the business.
Huawei didn't just stop at software. The
M5 features an all-aluminum alloy chassis and Huawei's self-developed HUAWEI
DATS (Dynamic Adaptive Torque System). The HUAWEI DATS reduces response delay
to a mind-boggling 4ms. Compared to the delay of traditional fuel vehicles and
other EVs (400ms and 100ms, respectively), the HUAWEI DATS is lightning fast.
The system follows a three-step process: first, it senses road surface changes
via the motor resolver sensor. Next, it calculates the torque, adjusting
intelligently in milliseconds. Finally, it fine-tunes the millisecond-level torque
output to reduce forward impact sensation. The system's response time and
ability to adapt to changing road conditions apparently bring a new level of
comfort and control to the driving experience. For the cherry on top, the M5
features smart parking. It can identify regular parking spaces and supports a
remote parking function for 110 parking situations, including those pesky
ultra-narrow spots.
The AITO M5 delivers a compelling package
of advanced tech and optimized design at a price that doesn't require a second
mortgage. It seems the race for affordable and smart EVs just got more
interesting, at least in China. We just have to stick to our trusty overpriced
VWs and the occasional ray of sunshine in the form of ORA Funky Cat, making us
believe that China has it all.
