SAIC-GM Signs Deal with Momenta, Buick Electra L7 Debuts R6 Flywheel Large Model

The R6 Large Model makes its debut on the Buick Electra L7, supporting ADAS across all road scenarios and fully automated parking in all types of spaces.

On August 18, SAIC General Motors (SAIC-GM) formally signed a cooperation agreement with autonomous driving technology company Momenta. Under the agreement, SAIC-GM’s high-end sub-brand model—the Buick Electra L7—will be the first to feature Momenta’s self-developed R6 Flywheel Large Model.

Momenta’s R6 Flywheel Large Model leverages massive real-world road testing data and iterative algorithm optimization to autonomously handle complex driving scenarios. The solution has already been deployed across China, Europe, Australia and New Zealand, the Middle East, and Japan, achieving the goal of being “drivable globally.”

Momenta co-founder Cao Xudong revealed that end-to-end AEB (Automatic Emergency Braking) functionality will also be integrated into the R6 Flywheel Large Model, enabling faster predictive responses in a variety of sudden “phantom object” scenarios.

The Buick Electra L7 is built on SAIC-GM’s self-developed “Xiao Yao” super architecture and marks the company’s inaugural fully in-house developed model. In terms of powertrain, the vehicle is equipped with a fully self-developed range-extender system, offering a CLTC pure-electric range of 302 km and a total range exceeding 1,400 km.

The R6 Large Model’s debut on the Buick Electra L7 will support Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) across all road scenarios and fully automated parking in all types of spaces. In the intelligent cockpit domain, the vehicle features an industry-first AI high-computing chip and multi-screen digital environment, providing users with a more intuitive interaction experience.

In practical ADAS testing scenarios, the R6 Large Model demonstrates robust performance in complex road conditions. When faced with cut-ins, visual obstructions such as green belts, or road obstacles, the vehicle can accurately detect “phantom objects,” brake smoothly, and maneuver flexibly. At traffic lights, during lane insertions, or unprotected left turns, it enables precise navigation.

In parking scenarios, the Buick Electra L7 also introduces industry-first extreme parking features, including non-stop one-button parking and mechanical space parking.

Notably, SAIC-GM invested $300 million in Momenta as early as 2021 to build its intelligent driving technology portfolio.

In China’s high-level intelligent driving market, Momenta has previously partnered with brands such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz, forming a “tripartite” structure alongside Huawei and automakers’ in-house development.