The world’s first combustion vehicle equipped with Huawei’s advanced driving assistance system (ADAS), SAIC-Audi‘s A5L Sportback, received 9,800 pre-orders on its launch night on Aug 2nd. The vehicle, priced starting from 259,900 yuan (35,900 USD), has seen nearly 30% of orders selecting versions equipped with Huawei‘s Qiankun intelligent driving technology.

Built on Audi’s new Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), the A5L Sportback features the fifth-generation EA888 engine and comes in six configuration options. What distinguishes this model is its integration of Huawei’s intelligent driving technology in a combustion vehicle.

“In our view, driving assistance shouldn’t be limited by energy type but should be available to all users,” said Stefan Poetzl, Marketing General Manager of SAIC Audi, in an interview with NBD Auto.

In terms of power, the A5L Sportback delivers a maximum output of 200 kW (268 hp) and an injection pressure of 500 Bar. Coupled with Porsche-sourced VTG variable turbocharging technology and the new MHEV Plus super mild hybrid system, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds.

The A5L Sportback measures 4903 mm in length, 1883 mm in width, and 1427 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2922 mm. In terms of interior and features, the A5L Sportback front seats integrate multi-directional electric adjustment, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The roof is equipped with a PDLC adjustable panoramic sunroof.

The collaboration between SAIC Audi and Huawei began five years ago. Most vehicles equipped with Huawei’s driving assistance systems that typically feature a single LiDAR sensor, the A5L Sportback is equipped with two LiDAR sensors.

Looking ahead, SAIC Audi plans to launch 2-3 combustion vehicle models targeting mainstream users in the coming years. Simultaneously, the company is embracing the new energy vehicle market, with the AUDI brand’s first model, the Audi E5 Sportback, set to launch soon, followed by an expanded product matrix.

Editor’s comment

Although China’s new energy vehicle market is developing rapidly, high-end segments are still dominated by international brands like Audi, with the best-selling models currently being fuel vehicles. In the first half of this year, Audi was still the top-selling brand for vehicles priced above 48,650 USD in China.