SAIC-GM-Wuling's First Huawei-Co-Developed Model, Hua Jing S, Launches; Multiple Automakers Deny Being Summoned Over Battery Capacity Throttling

On May 8, SAIC-GM-Wuling launched its first model co-developed with Huawei—the large intelligent SUV "Hua Jing S"—offering four variants with an official manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) ranging from RMB 159,800 to RMB 203,800, and a special trade-in price from RMB 149,800 to RMB 193,800. Built on the Tianyu Architecture L platform, all Hua Jing S models come standard with Huawei’s Qiankun Smart Driving system, HarmonyOS Cockpit, and in-cabin LiDAR-based visual perception (Limera). The vehicle is powered by a 1.5T plug-in hybrid powertrain and CATL’s Super Hybrid battery cells. In September 2025, SAIC-GM-Wuling and Huawei signed an enhanced cooperation agreement in Liuzhou, focusing on three key areas: advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), intelligent cockpits, and smart manufacturing. SAIC-GM-Wuling is responsible for product definition, engineering development, manufacturing, and channel services, while Huawei provides intelligent solutions including Qiankun Smart Driving and HarmonyOS Cockpit. Technologies developed under this collaboration were first implemented in the Hua Jing S. Following its launch, the Hua Jing S will compete against models such as Leapmotor D19, Geely Galaxy M9, Chery Fulwin T11, Li Auto L9, and Aito M9. On May 9, in response to online rumors claiming that “the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) summoned eight automakers over OTA-related battery capacity restrictions and initiated investigations into three,” automakers including BYD, XPeng, Zeekr, Tesla, GAC Aion, Li Auto, and NIO issued statements denying they had been summoned or investigated. They clarified that the reports were AI-generated misinformation, stated they had preserved evidence, and pledged to pursue legal action. On May 7, Times Intelligent—a subsidiary of CATL—signed an agreement with Turkish EV maker TOGG to jointly develop three models based on CATL’s Panshi skateboard chassis for TOGG’s B-segment platform. The first mass-produced vehicle is scheduled to launch in 2027. TOGG will lead user experience design and overall vehicle requirements definition, while Times Intelligent will provide chassis and integration technical support. The Panshi skateboard chassis features a cell-to-chassis integrated structure with enhanced structural integrity, cell safety, and high-voltage protection. This marks the first time a Chinese-developed skateboard chassis will be used in an overseas passenger vehicle mass-production project. Separately, it was reported that Xiaomi Auto plans to launch an independent sub-brand named “Xun Tian” (Seeking Sky). Its first range-extended SUV, internally codenamed Kunlun N3, is slated for launch in the second half of 2026 and will not carry the main Xiaomi brand logo. Xiaomi filed for the “Xun Tian” trademark in 2023 and submitted the English trademark “SKYNOMAD” in 2024. Positioned for family, long-distance, and outdoor travel markets, the brand will later introduce additional models including Kunlun 10, 20, and 30, as well as a pop-top camper van codenamed “Isle of Man.” Also on May 7, Huawei Digital Power and JAC Group inaugurated the “Joint Innovation Center for Intelligent Electric Mobility” in Hefei, aiming to elevate their collaboration in the intelligent electric drivetrain domain from a traditional supplier-buyer relationship to one of joint product definition and deep co-development. The two companies had previously signed a comprehensive strategic cooperation agreement in April 2024 and further deepened their partnership in April 2025, focusing on intelligent electric components, charging networks, and ultra-fast charging technologies for heavy-duty commercial vehicles.