The joint venture between Huawei and Chinese automaker Dongfeng, branded as Yijing, has successfully completed rigorous winter testing of its first full-size SUV model. The vehicle, developed to fill a gap in Dongfeng’s NEV (New Energy Vehicle) lineup, will debut at the Beijing Auto Show in April 2026. This collaboration marks a strategic move by both companies to compete in China’s rapidly evolving automotive market.
Filling a Market Gap
Dongfeng currently operates three NEV brands: Nammi (entry-level), eπ (mass-market), and Voyah (luxury). Recognizing a missing segment between eπ and Voyah, Dongfeng partnered with Huawei in 2023 to create the DH (Dongfeng & Huawei) brand. Later rebranded as Yijing, the brand aims to deliver a flagship SUV that leverages Huawei’s advanced technology while benefiting from Dongfeng’s manufacturing capabilities.
Extreme Testing Conditions
The Yijing SUV prototype underwent testing in Mohe and Hulunbuir, some of the coldest locations in China. Mohe, known for temperatures dropping to -53°C (-63°F), provided harsh conditions to validate the vehicle’s performance. The tests, which began in December 2025, focused on stability and functionality in extreme cold and on snow-covered surfaces.
Huawei Tech Integration
The new SUV features Huawei’s cutting-edge XMC Qiankun chassis, ensuring stability in challenging conditions. Additional Huawei technologies include the latest assisted driving system (ADS), the Harmony OS cockpit, and the Qiankun vehicle control system. Dongfeng will handle production, while Huawei provides critical components and software. The Yijing brand plans to launch one new model each year.
Design and Powertrain Details
The Yijing SUV’s exterior design follows industry trends with a flat roofline, high beltline, and stretched rear doors. Distinctive features include two-story headlights, ten-spoke rims, and LiDAR sensors. The vehicle’s dimensions are estimated to be around 5.2 meters (17 feet) in length, comparable to the Li Auto L9. The presence of fuel and charging ports suggests a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The Yijing SUV is poised to compete directly with other high-end NEV crossovers in China. The collaboration between Huawei and Dongfeng highlights the growing convergence of technology and automotive industries, with Chinese companies at the forefront of this trend. Pricing and detailed specifications will be revealed at the Beijing Auto Show in April 2026.
