Huawei & JAC’s Maextro S800: The $98K Luxury EV That’s Taking on Mercedes-Maybach – Now Coming for Global Markets
China’s premium electric vehicle (EV) segment has a new headline-maker. The Maextro S800, a full-size luxury sedan co-developed by Huawei and JAC Motors, has quickly proven its market potential by securing 3,600 confirmed ordersin just one week after its official launch. With a starting price of $98,500, the S800 undercuts traditional luxury benchmarks such as the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, offering a similarly opulent experience at nearly half the cost.
A Strong Market Debut
Within the first 24 hours of availability, the Maextro S800 registered 1,600 orders, 70% of which were for the top-tier trim, priced at approximately ¥1,018,000 (~$141,600). This early traction has been seen as a strong signal of demand in China’s rapidly maturing high-end EV market, particularly for homegrown brands that are challenging Western luxury automakers not just in price, but also in technology, design, and comfort.
Flagship-Level Design and Dimensions
Measuring 5.5 meters in length, the Maextro S800 boasts the presence and proportions expected of a flagship limousine. The vehicle’s exterior design is both modern and stately, featuring clean lines, flush door handles, a fastback-style silhouette, and a prominent front grille flanked by slim, intelligent LED lighting units. It rides on large, turbine-inspired alloy wheels and is offered in a range of elegant metallic and pearlescent finishes.
Ultra-Premium Interior
Inside, the S800 offers a truly luxurious environment. Buyers can choose between four- and five-seat configurations, with the rear cabin in the four-seat layout optimized for chauffeur-driven comfort. Premium materials such as natural wood, semi-aniline leather, and brushed aluminum trim are used throughout. Rear passengers are treated to reclining executive seats with massage functions, individual entertainment screens, ambient lighting with customizable themes, and even a built-in refrigerator in some versions.
The centerpiece of the front cabin is a wide digital dashboard powered by Huawei’s HarmonyOS, providing seamless connectivity, voice control, and AI-enhanced user interaction. The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and full smart home integration, reflecting Huawei’s deep tech background.
Advanced Technology and Autonomous Features
The Maextro S800 is available in both pure electric (EV) and range-extender hybrid (EREV) configurations. The EV version offers dual-motor all-wheel drive with up to 475 horsepower, delivering a 0–100 km/h time of under 4.5 seconds. Battery capacity allows for a range of over 800 km (497 miles) on the Chinese CLTC cycle, while the EREV version offers extended total range with efficient gasoline backup.
What sets the S800 apart is its technology suite. It features a Level 3 autonomous driving system enhanced by four LiDAR sensors, multiple HD cameras, and a powerful onboard AI computing platform. It also includes adaptive air suspension, rear-wheel steering for enhanced maneuverability, and a 43-speaker sound system co-developed with a high-end audio brand for an immersive acoustic experience.
Production and Future Plans
JAC handles the platform development and assembly, while Huawei provides the key electronics, software, and sales infrastructure through its HIMA alliance, which includes EV brands like Aito, Luxeed, and Stelato. With plans to add two more brands developed in partnership with GAC and SAIC, Huawei is rapidly building a luxury EV ecosystem.
The production facility for the S800 is designed to support an annual revenue of over ¥100 billion, indicating monthly output goals of 8,300 units or more. There are also hints of an expanded Maextro lineup in the future, including an SUV and a high-performance sports sedan.
A New Era in Chinese Luxury
With a lower starting price than competitors like the Nio ET9 ($109,600) and slightly higher than the BYD YangWang U7 ($87,400), the Maextro S800 strikes a powerful balance of value, innovation, and true luxury. It signals a new chapter in which Chinese automakers are no longer just catching up—but actively setting global benchmarks in the premium electric vehicle space.
