Voyah expands electric lineup with Passion S

Voyah, the premium electric vehicle brand under China's Dongfeng Motor, launched the Passion S all-electric SUV on Saturday, as it seeks to broaden its appeal among younger consumers and expand its all-electric lineup.

The model is offered in three variants, including two rear-wheel-drive versions and one all-wheel-drive version, with official prices ranging from 229,900 yuan ($34,100) to 279,900 yuan ($41,500). Limited-time prices range from 223,900 yuan to 273,900 yuan.

Voyah positions the Passion S in what it calls a technology-focused FUV category, with an emphasis on driving dynamics, intelligent technology, safety and comfort.

The Passion S is equipped with Huawei's ADS 5 driver-assistance system and four lidar sensors, alongside Voyah's own intelligent chassis.

The system supports assisted driving without relying on high-definition maps, as well as a range of parking functions, including remote parking and valet parking.

The model also features Huawei's HarmonySpace cockpit system with natural-language voice interaction and personalized in-car settings.

"Even if different brands use Huawei's driver-assistance solutions, the capabilities of the vehicles themselves can still differ significantly," said Lu Fang, chairman of Voyah.

Lu added that the performance of such systems also depends on a vehicle's underlying capabilities, including steering precision, powertrain response and chassis control.

The company said the Passion S completed a 360-degree loop inside a closed tunnel. Lu said the maneuver demonstrated how the vehicle's steering, powertrain, suspension and body structure had to work together to maintain its trajectory and return to the roadway.

The model also features an 800-volt electrical architecture and a 98-kilowatt-hour battery supporting 5C fast charging.

Voyah said it offers a driving range of up to 740 kilometers under the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle, while the battery can be charged from 20 percent to 80 percent in 10 minutes.

The Passion S also underwent a 28-meter drop test, after which the passenger compartment remained intact, the battery remained stable, and the doors could still be opened, according to the company.

Shao Mingfeng, Voyah's chief brand officer and general manager of Voyah's sales company, said 70 percent of respondents to a recent survey on the Passion S were under 35.

Lu said younger consumers are an increasingly important part of the customer group Voyah aims to serve, and the Passion S was developed with their preferences in design and driving experience in mind.

Lu added that original design and engaging driving dynamics will remain key elements of future Voyah models.