2025 Guangdong Auto Show highlights cutting edge car tech

The 2025 Guangdong Hong Kong Macao Auto Show kicked off in Shenzhen, China, drawing significant attention from car enthusiasts and tech lovers alike. Taking place at the Shenzhen International Convention and Exhibition Center, the show runs until June 8 and stands as one of the most important automotive events in China, especially following the renowned Shanghai Auto Show.

The exhibition halls welcomed the debut of several cutting edge models that signal the direction of the future automotive landscape. Among the standouts were the all electric Xiaomi YU7 crossover, the luxury Maextro S800 sedan, and the long wheelbase version of the Yangwang U8L SUV. Major global brands also made a strong appearance, with new models from Audi, Volkswagen, and Voyah showcasing the industry’s shift toward smart, sustainable, and tech integrated vehicles.

Xiaomi YU7: Electric Vision Wrapped in Futuristic Design and Smart Tech

Xiaomi has introduced the YU7 as its first mid to large size electric crossover SUV, drawing heavy design inspiration from the sleek SU7 sedan. With its waterdrop style headlights, frameless side mirrors, ducktail rear spoiler, and signature halo LED taillights, the YU7 embraces an aerodynamic coupe like profile.

Stretching 4,999 mm in length with a 3,000 mm wheelbase, the YU7 features 10 active air ducts and 19 vents that enhance aerodynamic efficiency. A roof mounted LiDAR system supports advanced autonomous driving capabilities, while the cabin houses a 16.1 inch 3K central display, two rear extension screens, and Xiaomi's new HyperVision panoramic HUD that spans a wide 1.1 meter field of view.

The front seats are designed with zero gravity comfort in mind, while the rear seats recline up to 135 degrees, offering a lounge like experience. Interior color themes come in three options. Powering the tech is Nvidia’s Thor U chip, offering 700 TOPS of processing power, paired with 4D millimeter wave radar. The YU7 comes in rear wheel and dual all wheel drive configurations, all equipped with V6s Plus motors. The top AWD version delivers 690 hp, accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.23 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 253 km/h. Battery capacities range from 96.3 to 101.7 kWh, supporting up to 835 km of CLTC rated range and 620 km recovered in just 15 minutes of fast charging.

Maextro S800: A Flagship Sedan Infused with Intelligent Luxury

Harmony Intelligent Mobility has unveiled the Maextro S800, its first flagship luxury sedan tailored for elite clientele and executive transport. Measuring 5,480 mm in length, the S800 is available in two configurations: a fully electric version and a range extended hybrid. The front grille design distinguishes the two variants visually.

Built on the advanced Xuanwu architecture, the S800 supports dual chamber air suspension and four wheel steering, offering refined handling and exceptional ride quality. Safety features include 13 airbags and multi stage door locks. The EV version is powered by a 97 kWh battery that delivers a driving range of up to 702 km (CLTC) and supports ultra fast charging through an 800V system, allowing a 10 to 80% charge in just 12 minutes. The EREV model pairs a 65 kWh battery with an 80 kW onboard generator, extending the total range to an impressive 1,333 km.

Inside, the Maextro S800 impresses with a suite of high end features such as multiple digital displays, a head up display (HUD), ventilated seats, a split opening rear trunk, and a refrigerator built into the front row. A royal recline mode adds a lounge like experience for passengers. All these systems are integrated with HarmonyOS, ensuring seamless control over smart driving functions and in cabin digital connectivity.

Yangwang U8L: Chinese Luxury in a Grand SUV Form

BYD has introduced the extended wheelbase version of its premium U8 SUV under its upscale Yangwang brand, unveiling the all new Yangwang U8L. Stretching to 5,400 mm in length, this flagship SUV adopts a sleeker, more refined design compared to the standard U8. It replaces the conventional rear mounted spare tire with a split opening electric tailgate and features a distinctive obsidian black finish complemented by a golden logo inspired by ancient Chinese oracle bone script.

Built on the advanced e⁴ quad motor electric platform, the U8L is paired with a 2.0 liter internal combustion engine that functions as a range extender. The system delivers a combined output of 880 kW (approximately 1,180 hp) and an astonishing 1,280 Nm of torque. The SUV includes remarkable features such as tank turn functionality, water floating capability, blowout stability control, and the Divine Eye A autonomous driving system powered by triple LiDAR sensors. It also comes equipped with the DiSus-P adaptive hydraulic suspension for enhanced ride comfort and terrain response. The Yangwang U8L is expected to launch in the second half of 2025.

Audi Q6L e-tron and Voyah FREE+: Tech Driven Luxury Enters a New Chapter

FAW–Audi has officially opened pre orders for the Q6L e-tron, a fully electric SUV based on the advanced E31.2 platform. Measuring 4,884 mm in length with a 2,995 mm wheelbase, the Q6L e-tron showcases a sleek modern design with a frameless front grille, segmented OLED taillights, and a full width rear light bar that enhances its premium appeal.

Powered by an 800V ternary lithium battery from CATL, the Q6L e-tron delivers a driving range of up to 765 km under the CLTC cycle. It supports ultra fast charging at 270 kW, enabling a 10 to 80 percent charge in just 20 minutes. Inside, the SUV features three high definition displays measuring 14.5, 11.9, and 10.9 inches, complemented by an ultra wide 88 inch AR head up display. The vehicle also integrates Huawei’s next generation ADAS platform, equipped with dual LiDAR sensors to enhance autonomous driving capabilities in urban settings, highways, and parking scenarios.

Voyah FREE+ arrives with refined exterior styling, highlighted by a new triangular D-pillar that adds visual balance and sophistication. The upgraded HarmonySpace 5 cabin focuses on comfort and personalization, offering cloud style seats, a dual opening center fridge, and five smart driving modes tailored to different moods and driving conditions.

Under the hood, the FREE+ runs a 215 kW rear electric motor supported by a 1.5 liter petrol range extender. The setup is enhanced by an adaptive suspension system that reads the road surface in real time, delivering a smoother and more responsive driving experience tailored to both urban and highway journeys.

Final Highlights from Smart, Volkswagen, and Dongfeng Reflect a Market Full of Possibilities

Among the standout compact models at the show, the 2025 Smart #1 made a strong impression with its rounded profile and a suite of thoughtful tech updates. Prices start at 154,900 yuan, around 21,500 USD (78,960 AED), and the model is offered in three different trims tailored to varying performance and comfort needs. Key features include Star River LED lighting, flush door handles, and a highly efficient aerodynamic drag coefficient of 0.206.

Inside, the cabin showcases a smart layout with a triple screen setup, a head up display, and full integration with Huawei’s HarmonyOS system. Rear passengers enjoy an upscale experience, featuring ambient lighting, retractable entertainment screens, a built in refrigerator, and a foldable tray. The central console adds further convenience with fingerprint secured storage, a makeup mirror, and thermally controlled cup holders.

Dongfeng, on the other hand, revealed the interior of its rugged M-Hero M817 off-road SUV for the first time. The design blends robust exterior styling with upscale amenities, including diamond stitched leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, a floating instrument cluster, and a front row refrigerator. The vehicle runs on Dongfeng’s Qiankun smart driving platform, equipped with a HUD and digital key support.

Volkswagen also made headlines by announcing fixed pricing for its refreshed Tharu and the Tiguan L 300TSI Longteng Edition, starting at 109,900 and 142,900 yuan respectively, roughly 15,250 and 19,800 USD (56,021 - 72,843 AED). Both models come with a 10.3 inch digital instrument cluster, a 12 inch infotainment screen, a panoramic sunroof, and heated power seats. Tech features include IQ:Drive, wireless CarPlay, and an optional digital key, blending comfort with modern connectivity.