Chinese carmakers have come a long way in a short time that much is clear. Now, they are going a step further, by taking on Tesla, with what looks like…a Tesla? This is the Nezha S, also known as the Neta S (both names are used), which was unveiled at the 2021 Guangzhou Auto Show. While the shape may bear a striking resemblance to the Tesla Model S, the Nezha/Neta S is its own car. Moreover, it promises to beat the American EV manufacturer to full autonomy, achieving Level 4 autonomy, by 2022.

Nowadays, Chinese EVs emerge in all shapes and sizes. You only need to look at the Hongqui E-HS9, GAC Aion LX, Farnova Othello, NIO ET7 and other Chinese-made vehicles to get the picture. As for Nezha, the Chinese company has slowly been gaining popularity, in China. Last year, they came introduced the Eureka 03, which is aimed at the Tesla Model 3, and for 2022, they are aiming for its big brother – the Model S.

Nezha S is still a concept, but a production version is expected to be unveiled at the Beijing Auto Show, in April next year. We don’t have all the numbers yet, but the Nezha S will feature a dual-motor setup and is said to be capable of 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.0 seconds and a range of 497 miles (800 km) NEDC, on a single charge.

The biggest feat of the Nezha S is the next-gen technology it brings on board. The Chinese Model S competitor is bringing Level 4 autonomy, which means that the vehicle is self-driving and will react to road conditions without driver input. In order to achieve this, the Neta S will utilize three lidar sensors, five millimeter-wave radars, and six cameras. To put things into perspective, most car manufacturers are currently at Level 2 autonomy, with the next-generation BMW 7 Series said to be capable of Level 3.

The Nezha S will be based on the company’s Shanghai platform, said to underpin a series of models, with a wheelbase ranging from 2,750 to 3,100 mm (108.3 – 122.0 inches). The platform will focus on “360 security” by utilizing dual backup batteries, dual backup braking, dual processors, as well as an advanced battery management system, with multiple safeguards.

Nezha S will come, as standard, with a double-wishbone front suspension and a five-link independent rear suspension, while air suspension will be optional. In addition, the dual-motor setup will allow you to choose between front, rear, and all-wheel drive. The Shanghai platform will underpin not only EVs, but also hybrid models. Regardless, the NEZHA/Neta S will be the first one, based on it.