Huawei's light and shadow headlights and gimbal camera add to the playability.

At this year's Chengdu Auto Show, Deep Blue Automobiles showcased two new models: the S05 and the L07.

The S05, in particular, boasts numerous unprecedented technological features such as unique million-pixel light and shadow headlights and exterior cameras for photography, enhancing the vehicle's playability. This personalized technology is clearly targeted at younger audiences. However, compared to other compact SUVs, the design of the Deep Blue S05 stands out.

After its debut at the Chengdu Auto Show, many questions about the Deep Blue S05 remain. A recent interactive experience livestream brought us closer to this new model.

Both exterior and interior are refined

Human-vehicle interaction is multidimensional, with visual and tactile senses playing a decisive role.

The 'Starry Wing' design language permeates the Deep Blue S05, leaving a 'little plane' icon on the headlights. The split headlights extend outward, resembling airplane wings and presenting an 'aggressive' stance. Deep Blue hopes to highlight the sci-fi attributes of the new car through this key design feature. Deep Blue believes that a good family design allows users to instantly recognize the brand even when the logo is obscured.

Officials revealed during the livestream that the original exterior design of the Deep Blue S05 was more radical and aggressive, but a balance was struck to achieve its current appearance. After reviewing the official design sketches, we believe the S05 has faithfully reproduced the design, as a mass-produced vehicle is the result of collaboration between engineering and design teams, which cannot fully replicate the original sketches.

The rear of the car is also imbued with a technological and sporty aesthetic, continuing the design concept of a flying object. The tailgate top features a spoiler and high-mounted brake light. The wheel arches are adorned with wing-like protrusions, details often overlooked but crucial to the design and texture of the vehicle. While these details could be omitted to save costs, they demonstrate the automaker's attention to detail.

The S05's dimensions are also unique, with a width of 1900mm, a wheelbase of 2880mm, and an aspect ratio of 0.842. Its length-to-wheelbase ratio of 0.623 is rare among A-segment SUVs, creating a visually lower center of gravity and a wide, stable stance.

While a wide body may compromise maneuverability, it enhances lateral stability, especially for SUVs with a higher center of gravity. From another perspective, the benefits of a wide body and long wheelbase include ample interior space, effectively transforming an A-segment car into a B-segment one in terms of interior roominess.

Exterior visual elements are crucial for human-vehicle interaction. Some vehicles use exterior lighting to convey information, such as battery status. The Deep Blue S05 incorporates 'Firefly Breathing Lights' on the rear window, supporting multicolor display to accurately reflect the vehicle's battery status. The host joked that even passersby would know when the car is running low on power.

The interior also adheres to a cockpit-style design. Upon closer inspection, the S05 builds upon the design of the previous Deep Blue S7, retaining the distinctive double-layer, contrast-colored dashboard and hidden air vents while adding chrome trim for added visual depth and ornamental appeal. The armrest box boasts a 13L capacity and can cool beverages, enhancing practicality.

Six interior color options are available, with ample soft leather trim catering to younger audiences. Notably, the unique sunflower screen mechanism from Deep Blue is retained, allowing the center console display to swivel towards the driver or passenger for optimal viewing and operation. While the addition of physical elements should be avoided unless necessary, the swivel screen significantly enhances human-machine interaction, offering practical convenience in daily use.

First impressions are often formed at first glance, especially among younger consumers. Cars are not just practical tools but also personal statements. Automakers must not only focus on the fundamental hardware but also present visually appealing, original exterior and interior designs. Only experienced design teams can achieve this balance.

Judging by the results, the Deep Blue S05's exterior and interior designs are promising.

Projection headlights and gimbal camera elevate playability

The Deep Blue S05 also introduces various technological features, emphasizing its outdoor capabilities and individuality.

Foremost is the industry's first exterior camera system. The Deep Blue S05 features a built-in gimbal camera supporting 120° rotation and 4K video recording, offering a 180° field of view. This is also the first time a high-pixel sensor has been integrated into a car, with a 48MP CMOS sensor providing ample imaging resolution and cropping space. The gimbal camera module can replace traditional camera mounts, capturing overlooked scenery during drives.

Additionally, the gimbal camera supports scheduled shooting, allowing users to capture sunrises without having to wake up early. Features like one-click capture and Vlog mode cater to road trip enthusiasts, eliminating the need for external filming equipment.

Projection headlights are another standout feature, offering a unique competitive advantage. The 1.3MP light and shadow headlights, powered by HUAWEI XPIXEL technology, can double as camping projectors or serve as a visual interaction tool, projecting customizable animations and messages. Deep Blue has packed numerous playful technological features into the S05.

However, the projection system currently supports monochrome display only, making black-and-white films the ideal content. For color projections, more specialized tools are required.

Furthermore, Deep Blue collaborates with POP MART to introduce a set of exclusive POP MART voice assistant avatars and voices, including hidden variants. Future OTA updates will prioritize maintaining these voice assistant resources.

The UI layout of the infotainment system underscores the centrality of human-machine interaction. Although officials did not elaborate on the system's design, the new version in the S05 features a 3D scene desktop, enhancing user-friendliness and visual focus. The interface catches up with industry standards, boosting interaction efficiency.

While the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip may seem outdated, the fluidity of animations and touch responsiveness are more crucial, with optimization playing a pivotal role.

Throughout the event, Deep Blue emphasized the emotional value of the S05. While cars are primarily transportation tools, they now carry more features and emotional significance amidst rising market demands and travel quality expectations. Gimmicks can enhance user experience; offering a practical car in 2024 may not stand out amidst numerous alternatives. Technology and emotional value differentiate Deep Blue's offerings.

New energy vehicles need to become more interesting in 2024

Luxury cars were once distinguished by 'excess' – in power, technology, craftsmanship, and materials. However, in the new energy era, supply chain upgrades and transparent component sourcing have disrupted these barriers. Affordable new energy vehicles no longer prioritize mere practicality.

With practicality as a given, automakers integrate advanced technologies, enhancing vehicle playability and emotional value. The Deep Blue S05, a practical model with personalized design, projection headlights, and gimbal camera, offers an unexpected experience during road trips with friends.

Pursuing pure practicality in 2024 may seem boring as domestic brands already produce practical cars within limited budgets. In a highly competitive market, Deep Blue differentiates itself by incorporating industry-first technologies to make cars 'not boring.'

The S05 achieves this with gimbal cameras and projection headlights, offering ample imagination without sacrificing practicality. Deep Blue also needs a unique market positioning.

Deep Blue Automobiles is known for its design- and technology-driven approach, targeting a young, dynamic audience. The brand vows to emphasize youthfulness, sports, outdoors, and individuality in future designs, catering to younger generations.

According to public data, Deep Blue Automobiles maintained a steady sales performance in 2024, averaging around 11,000 units monthly. However, in a fiercely competitive market, challenges persist. The 'Golden September, Silver October' sales peak presents an opportunity for the S05 to shine. Its appealing features and a competitive price will determine its market success.

Source: Leitech