Arcfox, the electric vehicle brand of BAIC Group, has introduced a new premium-focused product lineup under the Wendao name, signaling a push upmarket as competition in China’s EV sector intensifies.
The Wendao range will concentrate on “mid-to-large-size MPVs and SUVs,” Arcfox said in information released on its social media channels on Tuesday. The first model in the lineup will be the Wendao V9, an MPV positioned to compete with models such as Chery’s Luxeed V9 and BYD’s Denza D9.
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Arcfox did not disclose detailed specifications or pricing for the Wendao V9. Local media reports said the model is expected to be officially launched in the second quarter, after a prototype version was shown at the Guangzhou auto show last November.
Regulatory filings indicate the extended-range electric MPV measures about 5,300 mm in length, 1,980 mm in width and 1,850 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,200 mm. It uses a 1.5-litre engine as a range extender, delivering a maximum output of 118 kW, paired with an electric motor rated at 227 kW.
One of the model’s highlighted features is a magnetorheological suspension system, which adjusts damping through magnetic fields to improve ride comfort and stability on uneven road surfaces.
MPVs remain a relatively small segment in China, with monthly sales volumes estimated at roughly one-tenth of those for sedans or SUVs, according to industry data. Even so, several automakers have moved into the category, targeting family and business users seeking larger, more premium vehicles.
Arcfox was among China’s earliest new energy vehicle brands, but has struggled to gain traction in recent years as competition from both established automakers and newer EV startups has intensified. The company has taken steps to broaden its lineup and regain market attention, including launching the low-priced T1 compact EV in September last year and introducing extended-range variants of its Alpha T5 SUV in late 2025.
See also: ArcFox Files Extended-Range MPV with 227 kW Motor in China Regulatory Listing
In January, Arcfox also rolled out the 2026 Kaola S with a starting price of RMB 99,800 ($13,900), continuing its efforts to refresh its product portfolio while balancing mass-market and higher-end offerings.
