Affordable EV and Hybrid Brand from Huawei Prepares Its Second Model

The joint automotive ambitions of Huawei and SAIC Motor are gaining momentum. In March 2025, the partners officially announced the launch of a new brand called Shangjie, positioned as an affordable yet technologically advanced manufacturer of electric vehicles and hybrids. Until now, the lineup consisted of just one model, the compact crossover H5. That is about to change with the debut of the Shangjie Z7 sedan, which is already being positioned as a full-fledged competitor to the Xiaomi SU7.

Design concept and exterior highlights

Judging by the first official teaser images, the Shangjie Z7 adopts a modern fastback body style with a smoothly sloping roofline and no clearly separated rear overhang. The silhouette emphasizes wide wheel arches and a dynamic stance, clearly targeting the growing segment of sporty electric sedans. The front-end proportions and the shape of the headlights subtly echo premium electric models, and many observers have already noted visual similarities with the Porsche Taycan, although the Z7 remains firmly in the mass-market price bracket.

One of the most noticeable exterior features is the roof-mounted lidar sensor, signaling advanced driver assistance capabilities from the outset. At the rear, the sedan receives a full-width LED “monolight” with a complex internal structure. This lighting signature is part of Huawei’s HIMA alliance design language known as Star River, previously reserved for more premium vehicles such as the Maextro S800. Its appearance on the Shangjie Z7 underlines the brand’s intention to democratize high-end visual technology.

Platform and dimensions

Although Shangjie has not yet disclosed the technical platform in detail, industry sources expect the Z7 to share architectural elements with the H5 crossover while benefiting from a stretched wheelbase. The sedan is anticipated to be significantly larger than the H5, with an overall length expected to reach or slightly exceed 5,000 mm. This places it squarely in the same size class as the Xiaomi SU7 and other mid-to-large electric sedans popular in China.

The fastback layout suggests an emphasis on aerodynamics, which is critical for both electric range and high-speed efficiency. Flush door handles, a smooth underbody, and carefully sculpted body panels are all likely to be part of the final production design, following current EV industry trends.

Powertrain expectations and technical specifications

Official specifications for the Shangjie Z7 have not yet been published, but there is a high probability that the model will be offered with both fully electric and hybrid powertrains, mirroring the strategy used for the H5. Based on Huawei’s existing automotive solutions, several configurations can be reasonably expected.

The fully electric version is likely to use a single-motor rear-wheel-drive setup as standard, with an optional dual-motor all-wheel-drive variant for higher trims. Estimated system output could range from 250 to 400 horsepower, depending on configuration. Battery capacity is expected to fall in the 75–100 kWh range, which would translate to a projected CLTC driving range of approximately 550–700 km.

For the hybrid variant, Shangjie may adopt a range-extender or plug-in hybrid system, combining an electric motor with a compact internal combustion engine used primarily as a generator. Such a setup would allow for electric-only driving in urban conditions while delivering a total combined range well beyond 1,000 km, an important selling point in the Chinese market.

Technology and interior philosophy

Given Huawei’s deep involvement, the Shangjie Z7 is expected to be heavily software-driven. The cabin will likely feature a large central touchscreen powered by Huawei’s HarmonyOS-based infotainment system, complemented by a fully digital instrument cluster and an advanced head-up display. Voice control, AI-assisted navigation, and seamless smartphone integration will be key selling points.

Advanced driver assistance systems should include adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, automated parking, and highway pilot functions enabled by the roof-mounted lidar. Over-the-air updates are expected to continuously expand functionality over the vehicle’s lifecycle.

Material quality is likely to exceed what is typical for the price segment, with soft-touch surfaces, ambient lighting, and optional premium upholstery packages designed to appeal to younger, tech-oriented buyers.

Market positioning and pricing strategy

One of the most compelling aspects of the Shangjie Z7 is its aggressive pricing. According to preliminary estimates, the starting price will be around 200,000 yuan, which is roughly equivalent to 2.25 million rubles. For comparison, the Shangjie H5 crossover starts at approximately 170,000 yuan, while the electric Xiaomi SU7 enters the Chinese market at 215,900 yuan.

This positioning places the Z7 directly below its main rival in terms of cost, while promising comparable technology and dimensions. For budget-conscious buyers looking for a large, high-tech electric sedan, this price difference could prove decisive.

Competitive outlook against Xiaomi SU7

The Xiaomi SU7 has already attracted significant attention due to its performance figures, sleek design, and the strong brand recognition of Xiaomi in consumer electronics. Shangjie’s strategy appears to be focused on matching these strengths while undercutting the price and leveraging Huawei’s reputation in telecommunications and software.

If Shangjie delivers on its promises regarding range, performance, and autonomous features, the Z7 could quickly become one of the most competitive offerings in its segment. Much will depend on real-world efficiency, charging speeds, and long-term software support.

What this means for global EV trends

Although Shangjie models are currently focused on the Chinese market, their development reflects broader global trends. Affordable electric sedans with premium-level technology are becoming increasingly common, and competition between tech giants entering the automotive space is accelerating innovation. Brands backed by companies like Huawei and Xiaomi are reshaping expectations around connectivity, user experience, and value for money.

For markets such as the UAE, where interest in Chinese electric vehicles is steadily growing, models like the Shangjie Z7 may eventually become relevant through parallel imports or future official launches.