Suspension test between a Maybach S580 and a Chinese car reveals unbelievable results

This NIO ET9 is the definition of a smooth ride as it goes up against a Maybach S580 in the ultimate suspension test.

There is a huge gulf in cost between the two.

The Maybach is worth around $220,000 whereas the NIO is just over $110,000.

However, the winner might come from left of field.

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The Maybach S580 versus the NIO ET9

The luxury Maybach S580 has a luxurious price point and comfort to match.

The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class features an AIRMATIC air suspension system, which is adjustable to provide a comfortable ride or a more sporty driving experience.

The relatively cheap NIO ET9 by comparison boasts innovative suspension that can do incredible things – like shaking off snow like a puppy.

Deliveries of the NIO ET9 began at the beginning of 2025.

The Chinese EV boasts an intelligent chassis system, known as SkyRide.

The system integrates steer-by-wire, rear-wheel steering, and a fully active suspension.

In fact, according to their website, it’s the ‘world’s first integrated hydraulic fully active suspension (FAS) system’.

“It can process information and respond within 1ms by instantaneously adjusting stiffness, damping, and height. The ET9 ensures a stable ride with extraordinary body control,” the company said.

According to the Chinese EV maker, the car can deliver smooth rides even on the most complex road conditions.

The suspension test

Now for the comparative suspension test by automotive content creators, DriveVerse, which sees the cars drive over speed bumps with a tower of filled champagne glasses teetering precariously on the hood.

Despite being the more expensive option, the Maybach sees almost every glass topple off the car with barely a drop of the bubbly left in any glass.

Onto the NIO, and according to the YouTubers, ‘something incredible happens’.

It’s all down to the ‘intelligent’ Skyride chassis that boasts ‘active electro-hydraulic suspension’.

This innovative system allows the 707 horsepower EV to overcome the bumpy on-road obstacles without knocking over a glass, spilling a drop, or even making ripples on the water’s surface.

Seriously impressive stuff.