SAIC-GM's Buick launches sub-brand Electra

SAIC-GM's Buick marque revealed its new energy sub-brand Electra and introduced the all-new Buick Xiao Yao Super Architecture on Monday evening.

"The wave of the new energy revolution has positioned China as the epicenter of global automotive transformation. Buick was one of the earliest joint-venture brands to transition toward new energy vehicles, backed by strong technological capabilities," said Lu Xiao, general manager of SAIC-GM.

"Starting in 2025, all new Buick models launched in China will be NEVs and within the next two years Buick will offer comprehensive coverage across key price segments in the NEV market," he added.

The Xiao Yao Super Architecture was developed in collaboration with CATL, Momenta, Qualcomm, and Chinese domestic companies. It focuses on advancements in powertrain, battery technology, intelligent driving, and smart cockpit systems.

In the powertrain sector, the architecture supports three vehicle body types of MPVs, SUVs, and sedans as well as three NEV powertrains: battery electric, plug-in hybrid, and range-extended electric.

It also accommodates front, rear, and all-wheel drive configurations to meet diverse product demands. Buick plans to launch six NEV models based on the Xiao Yao Super Architecture within the next year, covering MPVs, SUVs, and sedans.

In the battery sector, Buick announced the industry-first 900-volt 6C LFP ultrafast charging battery, developed in partnership with CATL.

The system delivers a peak charging power of 640 kilowatts, enabling a 350-kilometer range with just 10 minutes of charging. The battery also features an exclusive multi-surface liquid cooling technology to enhance safety and thermal management.

For intelligent driving, Buick is deepening its collaboration with Momenta and aims to deploy L2 urban assisted driving technology by 2025.

Also, future models will be equipped with Qualcomm's third-generation 8775 chipset, creating a "Smart Wellness Cockpit" with multi-position zero-gravity floating seats and a five-zone climate comfort system.