On Feb. 9, 2026, BAIC's ARCFOX unveiled its new premium lineup, "Wendao," headlined by the Wendao V9. The large new-energy MPV measures 5.3 meters in length with a 3.2-meter wheelbase. It is built on the Polaris pure-electric architecture. Equipped with an extended-range powertrain, it is scheduled for launch in the second quarter of 2026.
The launch of the Wendao V9 is more than just adding a model. It aims to address ARCFOX's challenges: a brand value ceiling, profitability struggles, and the need to boost competitiveness amid intense market rivalry.
Can an MPV Buy a Premium "Ticket"?
Strategically, ARCFOX has assigned multiple missions to the Wendao V9. It embodies the brand's current technical capabilities and strategic ambition.
Image Source: ARCFOX
First, the Wendao series serves as a "value anchor" for ARCFOX's expansion. Established in 2016 as a premium NEV brand, ARCFOX struggled in the high-end market. The Alpha S Huawei HI edition featured advanced technology but received a lukewarm response. To survive, ARCFOX shifted to a "volume-over-price" strategy. Prices for core models dropped to the 100,000 to 150,000 yuan range. The ARCFOX T1 launched at 62,800 yuan. This strategy increased sales; ARCFOX sold over 160,000 units in 2025. However, it diluted the brand's premium image.
The standalone "Wendao" series aims to restore ARCFOX's brand value. The name targets high-net-worth users and reflects Eastern philosophy. Amid a market focused on technical specifications, ARCFOX aims to shift from "parameter wars" to competition based on "value propositions."
As the vanguard, the V9 must reshape the brand's stature. It demonstrates this value through features like a built-in roll cage—a first for global MPVs—and a magnetorheological chassis. The roll cage addresses safety concerns regarding cabin intrusion during side impacts or rollovers. The chassis uses millisecond-level adaptive damping to enhance comfort and stability. These specifications aim to establish "technical value" in the 300,000 to 500,000 yuan premium NEV MPV market.
Secondly, the V9 completes ARCFOX's "full-category layout." Previously, ARCFOX offered sedans (Alpha S) and SUVs (Alpha T and Koala). Its only MPV was the compact Koala. As family and business needs expand the premium NEV MPV sector, ARCFOX needed a strong contender. The Wendao V9 completes the portfolio. It provides ARCFOX with a "Sedan + SUV + MPV" range to cover all premium consumption scenarios.
The Wendao V9 reflects ARCFOX's pragmatic market approach. Instead of pursuing a pure-electric path, it uses an extended-range powertrain. This features a 1.5T range extender and drive motor. It balances the EV experience with the range needed for long-distance travel. Measuring over 5.3 meters with a 3.2-meter wheelbase, it provides space for seven seats.
With Sales Established, How to Return Value?
Leveraging technology and space, the Wendao V9 aims to lead ARCFOX into the premium MPV sector. It represents the brand's future and the parent group's NEV transformation. However, it highlights ARCFOX's dilemma. The V9 faces immense pressure and is critical for ARCFOX's success.
On Jan. 19, BAIC BluePark released its 2025 earnings forecast. It projected a net loss of 4.35 billion to 4.65 billion yuan attributable to shareholders. This is an improvement from the nearly 7 billion yuan loss in 2024. However, it marks the company's sixth consecutive year of losses.
In contrast to losses, sales surged. In 2025, BAIC BluePark sold 209,600 vehicles, an 84.06% increase year-over-year. ARCFOX contributed 160,000 units, nearly 80% of the total. This cemented its status as the primary sales driver.
Behind these figures lies a difficult strategic pivot. BAIC Group hailed ARCFOX as "Project No. 1" to enter the premium NEV market. Initially, it failed to receive the expected market response.
Since 2018, ARCFOX has had six chairmen and seven general managers. Some executives had short tenures. This turnover caused the brand's strategy to waver, hampering development.
The landscape shifted in August 2024 with "Stelato," a premium brand co-developed by BAIC and Huawei. This altered internal resource allocation. BAIC Group Chairman Zhang Jianyong stated the company would "go all in on Stelato." The plan involves a 20 billion yuan fund over three years. This handed the premium market mandate to the new brand.
Image Source: ARCFOX
With premium ambitions stymied, ARCFOX shifted to the mass-market segment. This "downward turn" yielded immediate sales results. In September 2025, the ARCFOX T1 launched. This A0-class city car is priced between 62,800 and 87,800 yuan. It received 26,558 orders in 12 hours. By Dec. 20, 2025, T1 sales reached 56,500 units. Combined with the T5, which starts at 113,800 yuan and sold 45,900 units, these models accounted for over 60% of ARCFOX's 2025 sales.
The "volume-over-price" strategy doubled ARCFOX's sales. However, it created a problem. Low-priced models constrain the company's ability to generate profit.
The T1 and T5 rapidly expanded market share. However, they struggle to generate profit to reverse losses. They also reinforce a perception of "selling cheaper." ARCFOX urgently needs a high-value product to reshape its image. This burden falls on the Wendao V9.
