Arcfox S3 to officially launch on May 22 with swappable battery option
BAIC‘s Arcfox has officially announced that its latest mid-size sedan, the S3, is scheduled to hit the market on May 22, 2026. The vehicle, which was revealed via regulatory filings this March, is currently available for pre-sale with eight different configurations, priced between 64,800 yuan (9,500 USD) and 125,800 yuan (18,500 USD).
Exterior and dimensions
The Arcfox S3 adopts the Arcfox family design language, characterised by “star-ring” light clusters and split headlights. The model is equipped with BAIC’s Yuanjing intelligent driving assistance system, with the top-tier trim featuring LiDAR to support high-speed and urban Navigation on Autopilot (NOA).
The vehicle’s dimensions are as follows:
- Length: 4916mm
- Width: 1900mm
- Height: 1480mm
- Wheelbase: 2876mm
From the side, the Arcfox S3 features semi-hidden door handles and blackened windows. The rear is defined by a through-type taillight assembly, a subtle “ducktail” spoiler, and a prominent diffuser. Higher-spec models will also include a speed-sensitive electric rear wing.
Interior and technology
Inside, the cabin features a clean, horizontal dashboard layout. Standard across all models is a 15.6-inch floating central touchscreen powered by the Snapdragon 8155 chip, complemented by a full LCD instrument cluster. The interior utilises soft-touch materials and wood grain accents.
Key interior highlights include:
- Versatile seating: Front headrests can be removed to allow the front seats to fold flat and connect with the rear seats, creating a “bed mode.”
- Rear comfort: The rear seats support a 118-degree recline angle for improved passenger comfort.
Powertrain and range
The Arcfox S3 offers both battery-swapping and traditional charging variants to meet diverse user needs:
- Battery-swapping version:
- Equipped with a motor producing 159 kW (213 hp).
- Offers a pure electric range of 535 km.
- Charging Version:
- Equipped with a motor producing 150 kW (201 hp).
- Available in two range options: 560 km and 660 km.
The battery-swapping model will use CATL’s Choco-SEB battery swap stations.
Arcfox has been quite inconsistent when it comes to releasing sales figures, but this month it published its data for April 2026. According to the figures, Arcfox sold 16,532 vehicles in a single month, representing a year-on-year increase of 101.7%.
