The IAA motor show in Munich used to be the preserve of the likes of BMW, Mercedes, and Porsche. But this year, Chinese automakers have been taking the spotlight, using the event to introduce European audiences to their rapidly expanding ranges of cars, most of which are EVs.
One such brand is Seres, which brought with it its 5 and 7 SUVs. Seres, formerly SF Motors, has had a technical collaboration with Huawei through their Aito brand and is establishing a dealer network throughout Europe.
On display in Munich is the Seres 5, known as the SF5 / A5 in other markets, and is what Huawai’s Aito M5 is based on. Scheduled for launch sometime later this year, the 5 is offered in China with a rear motor, making 342 hp (255 kW) and 384 lb-ft (520 Nm) in its two-wheel-drive guise, as well as an AWD dual-motor configuration for a combined 637 hp (475 kW) output, with 820 Nm of torque.
Related: Aito M7 Is A Six-Seat Range-Extender SUV Coming For The BMW X7 And Mercedes GLS
Seres 5
A step above the 5, is the 7, a larger SUV with 6 seats spread across three rows. The Seres 7 is based on the Aito M7, which is offered with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that acts as a range extender to recharge the battery.
Figures for the Seres 7 are yet to be confirmed, but the Chinese-market Aito M7 is offered in 2 versions. An entry-level model with a single electric motor at the rear axle with 272 hp and 265 lb-ft (360 Nm) of torque, while the flagship variant sports two electric motors to produce a combined 449 hp and 487 lb-ft (660 Nm).
Both cars run Huawai’s Harmony OS infotainment system, with a video demonstrating the customizability of various visual and functional parameters inside the Seres 7.
Prices and launches have not yet been communicated, but the company’s presence, along with many other Chinese brands, signifies a strong desire to be taken seriously in Europe.
Seres 7
