A Stunt That Sticks, but What About the Daily Grind?
Back in 2010, Mercedes had Michael Schumacher drive an SLS AMG up the wall of a tunnel and complete a full loop. Sixteen years later, Voyah recreated the scene for its new electric SUV, the Zhuiguang S. The ad is flashy, and it certainly gets attention. But once the cameras stop rolling, what matters is whether this big, family-oriented SUV can handle the mundane realities of school runs, grocery trips, and weekend getaways. That’s where care practices come in—not just for the car, but for the people inside it.
The Zhuiguang S is a mid-to-large pure electric SUV, stretching 5,050 mm long with a 3,000 mm wheelbase. It comes with a fridge, dual screens, and zero-gravity seats. Voyah calls it a “Tech FUV” (Fashion, Fun, Future, Full), but that’s just marketing speak. The real question is: how do you care for such a vehicle and its passengers on a daily basis?
Performance Is Nice, but Maintenance Is a Different Story
Under the skin, the Zhuiguang S boasts an all-aluminum front double-wishbone and rear multi-link suspension, plus an “EDC variable magic carpet” system that adjusts damper stiffness based on road conditions. It can tighten up for fast lane changes or soften for bumpy roads. That’s impressive engineering, but it also means more complexity. For owners, this translates into a need for regular check-ups—not just oil changes (there’s no oil, of course), but software updates, suspension inspections, and tire rotations. Care practices for a performance-oriented EV involve paying attention to how the car feels and sounds, and addressing any anomalies early. Also, the 80 mm adjustable air suspension on higher trims adds another component that requires periodic inspection for leaks or compressor issues.
Battery Care: More Than Just Plugging In
The Zhuiguang S uses a 98 kWh battery with 800V architecture and supports 5C fast charging. The official claim is that it can go from 20% to 80% in 10 minutes, adding up to 577 km of range in just 15 minutes. That’s remarkable, but fast charging regularly can degrade battery health over time. To prolong battery life, it’s wise to limit DC fast charging for daily top-ups and instead use AC charging when possible. Also, avoid letting the battery drop to near zero frequently. Most EVs have a recommended state of charge range—often between 20% and 80%—for optimal longevity. For a family SUV, planning charging around school schedules and work hours can make a big difference. And if you have solar panels at home, charging during peak sun hours is both eco-friendly and cost-effective.
Interior Care: Keeping It Fresh for the Whole Family
Inside, the Zhuiguang S offers dual 15.6-inch screens, a 29-inch AR-HUD, and a 6.6L hot-cold box. There are also front dual zero-gravity seats with ventilation, heating, and massage. These features are great for comfort, but they also require care. Ventilated seats can accumulate dust and debris in the perforations, so regular vacuuming and occasional deep cleaning are essential. The cabin air filter should be replaced according to the manual, especially if you drive in dusty areas or have allergies. The 80L front trunk (frunk) is a thoughtful addition for storing wet umbrellas or sports gear, but it needs to be kept clean and dry to prevent odors and mold. A simple habit of wiping it down after rainy days can prevent musty smells.
Smart Features Need Smart Care
The Zhuiguang S comes with Huawei’s ADS 5 system, featuring four LiDAR sensors and 33 perception units. This array provides 360-degree awareness, which is great for safety, but it also means more electronics that can fail. Software updates are crucial to fix bugs and improve performance. Owners should ensure they install updates promptly and report any glitches to the dealer. Also, sensors and cameras need to be kept clean and unobstructed. A muddy sensor can disable features like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping. Regularly check and clean the sensor areas, and be mindful of parking in direct sunlight for extended periods, as heat can affect sensor performance.
Space Management: Balancing Form and Function
One of the challenges with coupe-styled SUVs is rear headroom and cargo space. Voyah addressed this by sloping the roofline gently from the B-pillar, preserving some practicality. Still, as a family car, you’ll want to organize the cabin efficiently. Use seatback organizers, cargo nets, and under-seat storage to keep items from sliding around. The 80L frunk is perfect for items you don’t want inside, like muddy boots or smelly gym bags. For the main trunk, consider a weatherproof liner to protect against spills and dirt from sports equipment. And don’t forget the roof rails—if you frequently carry bikes or a cargo box, invest in a quality roof rack system and check its tightness periodically.
Driving Habits That Care for Your Car and Family
The Zhuiguang S is fast, with a 475 kW dual-motor all-wheel-drive system that can hit 60 mph in around 3.9 seconds. But aggressive driving increases tire wear, energy consumption, and stress on the suspension. For daily driving, using eco mode and smooth acceleration will extend range and reduce maintenance costs. Also, regenerative braking can be adjusted; using higher regen in stop-and-go traffic helps recover energy and reduce brake pad wear. But be cautious: strong regen can be jarring for passengers, so dial it down for comfort. Finally, remember that a heavy SUV requires more stopping distance. Maintain a safe following distance and anticipate stops.
Seasonal Care: From Hot Summers to Cold Winters
In summer, the 800V system and battery generate heat, so ensure the cooling system is functioning properly. Park in the shade when possible to reduce cabin and battery temperatures. Use the remote app to precondition the cabin before you get in, which also helps the battery. In winter, battery range drops due to cold temperatures. Preheating the battery while plugged in can mitigate this. Also, check the tire pressure regularly, as cold weather reduces it. The Zhuiguang S’s all-wheel-drive and advanced stability control help in snow, but winter tires are still recommended for regions with heavy snowfall.
Conclusion: Beyond the Stunt
The tunnel loop is a clever marketing stunt, but it’s not something you’ll do on your daily commute. What will matter is how the car serves your family day in and day out. Proper care practices—from battery management to interior upkeep—will ensure that the Zhuiguang S remains a reliable and comfortable companion for years to come. And that’s a performance worth investing in.
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