AITO M8 EV vs. NIO ES8: Who Wins the Battle for the 400,000 RMB Electric SUV Crown?

The competition in the high-end electric vehicle market is intensifying. With the recent pre-sale announcement of the all-new NIO ES8 starting at just 308,800 RMB (under Baas), the automotive world was stunned by a price cut of 140,000 RMB for this third-generation model. This move effectively anchors the pricing of large flagship electric SUVs within the 300,000 to 400,000 RMB range. Consequently, Harmony Intelligence’s pricing strategy for the AITO M8 all-electric variant will signal whether Huawei intends to compete seriously in the 400,000 RMB premium battery electric car segment.

The answer seems clear. After the resounding success of the AITO M8 extended-range version in capturing the sales crown in the 400,000 RMB SUV category, Harmony Intelligence has no intention of conceding this market. Instead, it is boldly proclaiming the pure electric version as the “Pure Electric King,” ready to challenge rivals like NIO and Li Auto in the new energy car arena.

Three Well-Specced Trims Straight Out of the Gate

The AITO M8 pure electric model launches with three configurations, starting with the well-equipped Max+ version that comes standard with a 100 kWh battery. The six-seater variant also includes a standard passenger-side zero-gravity seat, with a price premium of 20,000 RMB over the five-seater.

• Max+ Long Range: Priced at 359,800 / 379,800 RMB, it features a 227 kW rear-mounted single motor, a 100 kWh CATL battery offering 705 km range, dual-chamber air suspension with continuous damping control, and a 68-inch AR-HUD.

• Max+ AWD: Priced at 379,800 / 399,800 RMB—20,000 RMB more than the single-motor version—it simply adds a front motor, making the single-motor version appear exceptionally value-packed.

• Ultra AWD: Priced at 429,800 / 449,800 RMB, it builds on the Max+ AWD with added features like smart electric doors, a laser projection system, and million-pixel adaptive headlights (exclusive to this trim).

Notably, for the Max+ versions, the smart electric doors and laser projection system are available as optional extras at 20,000 RMB each. This flexibility allows customers to tailor their electric automobile but also means many may opt for the laser projector, effectively pushing the starting price of a well-equipped M8 EV close to the 400,000 RMB mark.

How Does the AITO M8 EV Stack Up Against the All-New NIO ES8?

So, does the AITO M8 pure electric model have what it takes to compete with the third-gen NIO ES8? The comparison reveals distinct strengths for each model.

Firstly, for those seeking a large five-seater layout, the AITO M8 EV stands virtually unchallenged. Its spacious cabin offers a compelling advantage in this specific segment of the electric vehicle market.

Secondly, in the crucial six-seater configuration that is expected to be a volume-seller, the AITO M8 EV essentially leverages its single motor combined with the advanced Huawei ADS 4.0 driver-assistance system to counter the NIO ES8’s dual-motor setup. Priced approximately 40,000 RMB lower than the outright purchase price of the new ES8 (non-BaaS), the AITO offers a larger 100 kWh battery and longer range, making it a highly attractive option for customers who prefer not to subscribe to the BaaS program.

Thirdly, while the NIO ES8 includes rear-seat entertainment screens as standard, the AITO M8’s laser projection system is an optional extra. Factoring in the cost of this option and the potential upgrade to full ADS 4.0 functionality, the final price of a six-seat AITO M8 EV aligns closely with that of the new ES8 purchased outright. Its selling points then become its top-tier intelligent driving capabilities and the coveted Huawei brand association.