China has unveiled the world's first car with an internal combustion engine equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) developed by Huawei. We are talking about the Audi A5L Sportback model, created in partnership with SAIC Audi. Already on the first day after the announcement, 9,800 pre-orders were placed for the car, while about 30% of customers chose complete sets with the Qiankun intelligent driving system from Huawei.
The model is developed on the new premium Audi Combustion (PPC) platform and is an example of integrating digital solutions into traditional power plants. Unlike most ADAS solutions, which are mainly used in electric vehicles, Huawei has made a bet on the versatility of the technology, which allowed it to be implemented in a business-class gasoline sedan.
The technical characteristics of the A5L Sportback emphasize its focus on dynamics and comfort. The car is powered by the EA888 fifth-generation 200 kW (268 hp) engine with 500 bar direct injection and VTG variable turbocharging developed by Porsche. The model also uses the MHEV Plus hybrid system, which increases fuel efficiency. Acceleration to 100 km/h takes 5.6 seconds.
The car has dimensions of 4903×1883×1427 mm and a wheelbase of 2922 mm. Electric, ventilated, heated and massaged front seats are also available. The panoramic sunroof is controlled by a PDLC electric drive. Comfort is complemented by an intelligent driver assistance system that uses two lidar sensors, providing a more accurate perception of the environment than standard single-radar configurations.
The collaboration between SAIC Audi and Huawei has been going on for more than five years. The result is a technologically advanced platform that combines the mechanical reliability of a gasoline engine with the intelligent capabilities of an autopilot. This project was a landmark step in the development of the global trend for the introduction of AI solutions in cars, regardless of the type of power plant.
High market interest and a record number of pre-orders indicate the demand for hybrid formats-a combination of classic engines with modern digital technologies. Audi A5L Sportback equipped with ADAS Huawei can become a new starting point in the mass implementation of smart solutions in cars with traditional fuel.
