2026 Exeed Sterra ES
By Lorenzo Bianchi June 1, 2026
New Falcon 700 driver assistance system uses Robotaxi-based algorithms.
AI Lingxi cockpit debuts with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295P chip.
Exterior styling remains largely unchanged from the outgoing model.
Familiar shape, very different technology
At first glance, the 2026 Exeed Sterra ES doesn't look dramatically different from the car it replaces.
The overall silhouette remains intact, and that's probably intentional. The low-slung fastback profile, flush door handles, and full-width rear light bar carry over from the previous model, giving the updated sedan a familiar appearance. Look a little closer, though, and it's clear that Exeed's priorities for 2026 are focused less on sheet metal and more on software.
Official images released by the company show a sedan that continues to lean heavily on clean surfacing and aerodynamic proportions. The front fascia now adopts elements from the range-extended version, while retaining the distinctive LED lighting signature previously seen on the pure-electric model.
Roof-mounted lidar signals a technology upgrade
The most obvious visual change sits on top of the vehicle.
A roof-mounted lidar sensor immediately distinguishes the updated Sterra ES from earlier versions. It isn't there simply for appearance. According to Exeed, the new model receives the Falcon 700 driver assistance system, which uses algorithms derived from Robotaxi development programs.
Supporting that system is an extensive sensor suite. Exeed says the vehicle utilizes 27 sensors in total, including 11 cameras, 12 ultrasonic radars, three millimeter-wave radars, and the lidar unit itself.
The company claims the combination is intended to improve overall driver assistance capability, though specific functionality and operating parameters remain [Unverified].
Interior changes focus on intelligence
Inside, the layout remains largely familiar.
A digital instrument display sits ahead of the driver, while a floating central touchscreen continues to serve as the centerpiece of the dashboard. The biggest changes happen beneath the surface.
The 2026 model introduces Exeed's AI Lingxi cockpit, which works alongside the Carmind AI large-language model. Powering the system is a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295P processor, a chip increasingly appearing in high-end Chinese EVs and connected vehicles.
Exeed says the upgraded computing hardware is designed to improve the infotainment experience, although detailed software functions have yet to be disclosed.
Powertrain details remain unconfirmed
One area where Exeed is remaining unusually quiet is performance.
Official powertrain specifications for the 2026 model have not yet been released. However, based on the configurations currently available and details referenced in the source material, it is expected that both pure-electric and range-extended variants will continue. That includes all-wheel-drive versions as well as rear-wheel-drive models. These details remain [Speculation] until final specifications are announced.
The current range-extender system utilizes a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 115 kW, though Exeed has not confirmed whether any mechanical changes have been made for 2026.
Competing through software
The updated Sterra ES enters a segment where technology increasingly matters as much as performance figures.
Rather than introducing a complete redesign, Exeed has chosen to enhance the car's intelligence platform while keeping its existing design largely intact. For buyers already familiar with the Sterra ES, the biggest story for 2026 may not be what has changed visually, but what is happening behind the screens and sensors.