Huawei's Maextro S800: the fully electric luxury saloon with several nods to Maybach and Rolls-Royce

The Maextro S800, the result of the collaboration between Huawei and the Chinese manufacturer JAC, promises to be a luxury electric saloon capable of competing with icons such as Rolls-Royce, Maybach and Porsche. With a design that combines elements of these European giants and a focus on cutting-edge technology, the S800 aims to redefine the premium segment, being larger than 99.99% of cars in China.

A design that blends the best of three worlds

The Maextro S800 is hard to ignore. Its look, though impressive, has many familiar traits, wheels inspired by Rolls-Royce, chrome details in the style of Bentley, a two-tone bodywork reminiscent of Maybach and a rear end that looks lifted from Porsche‘s design book. It is as if Huawei’s designers had put together a “greatest hits” of European luxury.

However, the S800 does not simply copy. Among its original touches are the door handles with a star pattern and an intricate LED design in the headlights. Although these details offer a glimmer of originality, critics could argue that the overall design lacks a distinctive identity.

Bigger than almost everything in China

Size matters, and the Maextro S800 makes that clear. With dimensions of 5,480 mm long, 2,000 mm wide and 1,536 mm high, and a wheelbase of 3,370 mm, this electric saloon is larger than 99.99% of the cars on Chinese roads, according to Yu Chengdong, director of Huawei’s automotive programme. These proportions place it in the same territory as the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, although it still lacks a few centimetres to match the Rolls-Royce Ghost and falls short of the majestic Phantom EWB.

A look inside

The interior of the S800, previewed in a teaser image, promises a refined luxury atmosphere. The “starry sky” stands out, a feature inspired by Rolls-Royce that creates a heavenly ambience on the vehicle’s roof. Premium upholstery materials and a design focused on comfort suggest that the S800 is built as much to be driven as to be enjoyed from the rear seat.

In terms of technology, Huawei promises the latest in artificial intelligence-driven assistance and Level 3 autonomous driving, backed by its Tuling intelligent chassis. Although details about the electric motor and performance have not yet been revealed, they are expected to be competitive within the electric luxury saloon segment.

Competitive pricing in electric luxury

The Maextro S800 will reach the market in spring 2025 with an estimated price between ¥1 and ¥1.5 million (137,800-206,700 dollars). This places it in direct competition with models such as the Mercedes-Benz EQS and the BMW i7, offering a tempting proposition for those seeking luxury and technology at a relatively accessible price.

A new contender or a refined imitator?

The Maextro S800 has the potential to be a disruptor in the electric luxury saloon market, thanks to its inspired design, advanced technology and competitive price. However, the lack of a unique design identity could be its biggest challenge in standing out in a segment where exclusivity is key.

With its scheduled arrival in 2025, the S800 marks a milestone in the evolution of China’s automotive industry, which seeks not only to match but to surpass the European giants in luxury and sophistication. Will this saloon be the beginning of a new era in which Huawei also dominates the road? Time will tell.