Seres' Zhang Xinghai Responds to Range-Extender Controversy: User Data Shows "Fuel + Electric" Effectively Eases Charging Challenges and Range Anxiety

At the 2026 China Automotive Chongqing Forum, Zhang Xinghai, Chairman of Seres Group, delivered a speech emphasizing that safety technology is the foundation for the development of new energy vehicles (NEVs). He noted that as automobiles evolve toward intelligent electrification, the scope of safety has expanded beyond traditional physical safety to encompass a multidimensional system including electric powertrains, software, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. He stressed the necessity of solidly advancing innovative safety technologies and eliminating any complacency. Addressing long-standing criticisms labeling range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs) as inefficient—often derided in China as "taking off your pants to fart"—Zhang cited real-world operational data from Aito vehicles. According to the data, Aito vehicles have collectively traveled 32.2 billion kilometers to date. Of this, 69.6% was powered by direct charging, while approximately 30% relied on fuel-generated electricity, primarily used during long-distance trips or holidays when charging infrastructure is less accessible. Zhang argued that this "dual-mode" capability—using both electricity and fuel—effectively alleviates users' charging difficulties and range anxiety. On the topic of intelligent driving, Zhang highlighted that 950,000 Aito vehicles are already equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), accumulating over 7.8 billion kilometers of assisted driving mileage, with more than 20 million kilometers added daily. Data shows that Aito’s ADAS is 8.29 times safer than the industry average, having helped avoid an estimated 3.59 million potential collisions. As a result, user insurance claim rates continue to decline, with some customers even enjoying lower renewal premiums than those of traditional joint-venture brands.