Sound Magic: Analysis of the STELATO S9 Intelligent Cockpit

In the past, labels such as administration, business, and luxury were primarily created through configurations, materials, and design. However, in the era of smart cars, integrating intelligence into these labels has become a new challenge. These labels differ from categories like family travel, youth, and technology, where a misstep in integrating intelligence can blur the vehicle's positioning, potentially causing original buyers to lose interest. This presents a test of BAIC and Huawei's understanding of luxury and business.
   
The front part of the STELATO S9's cockpit features a minimalist design, with its interactive interface consisting mainly of a 12.3-inch instrument screen and a 15.6-inch central control screen. In addition to the physical buttons on the steering wheel, touch buttons are utilized throughout the vehicle.
 
While the instrument panel is of conventional size, it offers a wealth of information, including vehicle status and driving details, easily accessible for quick reference.
 
STELATO S9 offers an electronic exterior rearview mirror version. The size, position, and smoothness of the display screen are impeccable, though it may take some time to adjust during initial use.
 
The layout of the central control screen is simple, with high-frequency functions conveniently located at the bottom of the screen and customizable by the user. The DOCK bar at the bottom provides shortcuts to air conditioning and seat controls.
 
Below the central control screen are two 50W wireless charging pads with ventilation functions, offering a convenient spot for placing mobile phones while driving.

The entire front cockpit design of the STELATO S9 is similar to other Huawei cockpits. It is simple, functional, and geared towards service-oriented driving. The system is intuitive to use and operates similarly to Huawei smartphones.

The standout feature of the STELATO S9 is its sound field technology powered by HUAWEISOUND. While headrest speakers are common, in privacy sound shield mode, they play the sound of running water, effectively isolating conversations between rear passengers. Though you can hear sound, you cannot discern what is being said.
 
The STELATO S9 takes sound innovation to the next level. Beyond enhancing in-car audio-visual effects, the headrest speakers can help the driver maintain focus without disturbing other passengers. However, these features are only average for modern new power models. The introduction of the privacy sound shield, though, is specifically designed for business receptions, protecting the privacy of rear-seat conversations. That said, the "splashing" sound of running water from the headrest speakers could be distracting for the driver.

For a tech manufacturer with a vast hardware ecosystem, leading cockpit design is a relatively simple task. Leveraging functions derived from Harmony OS, the car’s system becomes a smart terminal, communicating with other devices and enabling additional functionality. Features traditionally found in other smart devices have now been successfully integrated into the car, giving the STELATO S9 a clearer sense of purpose.

The rear cockpit of the STELATO S9 sets an example for many sedan models, proving that innovation is possible. Features like "one-button reclining," a screen with a projector, and a 9-inch display are designed to create an exclusive back-seat experience for business executives. This model suggests that other automakers can expand their thinking to make rear cockpits more versatile, beyond just a business focus.

What makes a good cockpit? It’s not just a collection of hardware and functions. A good cockpit aligns with the vehicle's positioning, meeting the needs of its target audience by leveraging the manufacturer's strengths, available hardware, and technology. This is how the importance of the cockpit in a car-buying decision can increase over time. Fortunately, the STELATO S9 succeeds in this regard. Its foundational capabilities are solid, earning an 80-point score, and its cockpit plays a crucial role in clarifying the vehicle’s positioning and usage scenarios, making the vehicle's identity more distinct.