With the dawn of April 17, Aito heralded a new chapter in its journey by introducing the M5 SUV to the market through an initial pre-sale phase. This vehicle, which comes in both electric and extended-range electric variants, is set to make its grand debut on April 23. While the full details of the M5's features remain under wraps, the buzz suggests a significant leap forward in the realm of intelligent driving capabilities.
As the automotive world turns its gaze towards this latest offering, Aito remains tight-lipped about the full spectrum of enhancements that await eager consumers. Yet, the anticipation is palpable, with industry insiders and enthusiasts alike speculating on the advancements that will set the M5 apart from its predecessors.
The allure of the M5 SUV is undeniable, as evidenced by the staggering number of pre-sales orders that flooded in on the very first day. A prominent Weibo blogger revealed that over 6,000 eager customers placed their orders, signaling a robust demand for Aito's innovative creation. This impressive figure underscores the market's readiness for a new player in the intelligent driving arena.
The enthusiasm for the M5 SUV is a testament to Aito's growing reputation as a purveyor of cutting-edge automotive technology. With such a strong start, the M5 is well on its way to becoming a significant contender in the competitive SUV market.
The M5 SUV, Aito's inaugural model launched just a year prior, has undergone a stylish transformation. The latest iteration introduces a striking new red hue to its color palette, complementing the existing black and gray options. This addition offers consumers a broader spectrum of choices to match their personal style.
Further enhancing its aesthetic appeal, the M5 now boasts blackened logos and a sporty flair with the inclusion of a sports kit. This kit features sleek blackened five-spoke rims accented by vibrant red calipers, adding a touch of athleticism to the vehicle's profile.
Peering through the lens of recently surfaced spy shots, the new M5 retains the distinctive design language of its predecessor. The vehicle's silhouette is marked by sleek split LED headlights, seamlessly integrated door handles, and a state-of-the-art watchtower lidar perched atop its roof, hinting at its advanced navigational capabilities.
In terms of dimensions, the M5 measures a commanding 4770/1930/1625 mm with a wheelbase stretching to 2880 mm. Available in both electric and extended-range electric versions, the M5 boasts an impressive CLTC comprehensive range of up to 1,425 km and a pure electric range reaching up to 255 km, setting a new benchmark for efficiency and performance in its class.
Despite its innovative features, the M5 SUV has faced a challenging market landscape. According to the China Passenger Car Association, sales of the M5 in March accounted for a modest 1.62% of Aito's total sales. The SUV's ranking in sales plummeted by 86 spots from the previous month, landing at 202nd place.
The M5's market share in the SUV segment also saw a decline, with a year-on-year decrease of 0.27% in March. The first quarter of the year painted a stark picture, with cumulative sales reaching 2,158 units, marking a significant drop of 93.59% compared to the same period in the previous year. These figures reflect the challenges that Aito faces as it strives to carve out a niche in the competitive SUV market.