The SAIC Shangjie Z7 sedan, backed by Huawei, mirrors the Porsche Taycan’s design for under RMB 200,000 (€23,900), challenging luxury EV aesthetics in the affordable segment. Launched on January 7, 2026, it targets young Chinese buyers seeking premium looks without premium costs. This positions it as a direct rival to models like the Xiaomi SU7 in a crowded mid-range EV market.
Background: SAIC and Huawei’s HIMA Alliance
SAIC Motor, one of China’s largest automakers, partners with Huawei through the Harmony Intelligence Mobility Alliance (HIMA) to produce the Shangjie brand vehicles. HIMA includes SAIC, Seres (Aito), Chery (Luxeed), BAIC (Stelato), and JAC (Maextro), all integrating Huawei’s HarmonyOS cockpit, Qiankun ADS driving systems, and connectivity features.
Shangjie launched its first model, the H5 SUV, in late 2025, achieving 20,000 deliveries by December 9, 2025—78 days post-launch. SAIC Chairman Wang Xiaoqiu announced two new 2026 models, with the Z7 as Huawei’s first coupe sedan in the HarmonyOS ecosystem, emphasizing design and software. Priced below RMB 200,000 per initial reports, it undercuts the Porsche Taycan’s RMB 918,000 (€112,700) starting price in China.
Key Specifications
Detailed specs remain unconfirmed as the Z7 is in teaser phase, with a Q1 2026 launch expected. No official powertrain, battery, or range figures released. Here’s a summary based on available reports:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Body Style | Coupe sedan (fastback); possible wagon variant spied |
| Price (Estimated) | Under RMB 200,000 (€23,900); 200,000–300,000 CNY segment ($28,700–$43,000) |
| Driver Assistance | Roof-mounted LiDAR; Huawei Qiankun ADS 4 (expected, no upper limit on features) |
| Cockpit | HarmonyOS integration; advanced connectivity |
| Key Features | Semi-hidden door handles; full-width tail light bar; Huawei blue ADAS lights |
| Powertrain | Details not yet confirmed (BEV/EREV possible per HIMA pattern) |
| Range | Details not yet confirmed |
| Launch | Q1 2026 (spring debut possible) |
Note: Specs drawn from teasers and HIMA precedents like Shangjie H5 (64.6/80 kWh batteries, 525–655 km CLTC BEV range, 150/180 kW motors).
Design Analysis: Porsche Taycan Inspiration
The Z7’s side profile replicates the Taycan: sloping coupe roof, wide sculpted rear fenders, flush door handles, and matching rear light bar. Front headlights draw Porsche cues but differ, with a prominent roof LiDAR for ADAS distinguishing it. This unapologetic mimicry targets buyers wanting Taycan prestige at a fraction of the cost—four to five Z7s per Taycan.
The spied wagon variant echoes the Taycan Sport Turismo, with an extended roofline and hatchback, rare in EVs, adding practicality. Huawei’s involvement promises no feature caps on software/ADAS, unlike trim-limited rivals.
Technology and Market Positioning
HIMA equips the Z7 with Huawei’s latest Qiankun ADS 4, using multi-sensor fusion (LiDAR, cameras, radars) for city/highway navigation—superior to vision-only systems. HarmonyOS cockpit enables seamless phone integration, a HIMA hallmark seen in H5’s 15.6-inch screen and 50W wireless charging.
Priced for mid-range, it eyes 200,000–300,000 CNY buyers, but under RMB 200,000 teases price war. No performance specs yet—will it match SU7’s pace or prioritize range/software?
Performance and Unanswered Questions
Without specs, questions linger: BEV or EREV like H5? Expected 150–180 kW rear motor? Battery sizes mirroring H5’s 64.6/80 kWh? CLTC ranges could hit 600+ km, but unconfirmed. Wagon confirmation absent; global export unclear, likely China-first.
Copycat design risks Porsche backlash, but the Chinese market favors value. Software edge via Huawei could differentiate beyond looks.
Comparison with Competitors
| Model | Starting Price (RMB) | Range (CLTC) | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shangjie Z7 | <200,000 (€23,900) | Not confirmed | Taycan styling + Huawei ADS 4 |
| Xiaomi SU7 | 215,900 (€26,000); updated 229,900 | Up to 902 km | Performance, popularity |
| Porsche Taycan | 918,000 (€112,700) | ~500–600 km equiv. | Brand prestige, dynamics |
| Tesla Model 3 | ~235,000 (est. China) | ~700 km | Efficiency, charging |
Z7 undercuts SU7 by ~15%, offers a similar Taycan vibe but Huawei tech vs. Xiaomi’s raw speed. Taycan wins badge; Model 3 leads range/value.
Verdict
The Shangjie Z7 delivers Taycan aesthetics and Huawei smarts at €23,900, ideal for style-conscious young buyers in China prioritizing affordability over originality. Success hinges on specs matching hype—strong software/ADAS could spark price wars, but weak performance risks flop. Watch Q1 2026 launch for confirmation; unanswered powertrain details leave room for doubt.
