Written By Ben Vanthoff
As an annual grand event in the automotive world, the Goodwood Festival of Speed gathers numerous legendary cars and racing vehicles, as well as the latest automotive products. The 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed was held from July 11 to July 14, with this year’s theme being “Horseless to Hybrid,” showcasing 130 years of automotive technological evolution. Recently emerging into the spotlight, the Chinese luxury car brand HONGQI made its debut on this international stage with its latest electric vehicles, entering the scene for the first time through a collaborative effort.
HONGQI E-HS9
The HONGQI E-HS9 is the first HONGQI product to be exported to Europe. With its excellent performance in smart cabin technology and cloud-based vehicle control, it has received high praise from local dealers and users. The vehicle has a maximum battery capacity of 120 kWh, offering a range of up to 515 kilometers, supporting long-range travel. With dimensions of 5209/2010/1731 mm and a wheelbase of 3110 mm, the E-HS9 provides a more spacious interior. It is equipped with intelligent driving and a multi-screen interaction system, enhancing its technological appeal. Notably, since its official launch in the Norwegian market two years ago, the HONGQI E-HS9 has sold nearly 3,000 units, ranking among the top three in Norway’s mid-to-large luxury SUV segment. Moreover, on May 25, 2024, the E-HS9 officially began deliveries at Frankfurt Airport in Germany, providing VIP shuttle services for Europe’s third-largest airport. We understand that prior to this, all vehicles at Frankfurt Airport were from top-tier luxury car brands, which might be seen as a form of recognition for the HONGQI brand? Though we cannot be certain.
As of now, building on the success of the E-HS9, the HONGQI brand has established a sales network in Europe with 82 offline locations across countries such as Switzerland, Denmark, Iceland, and the Netherlands. Additionally, on June 1 of this year, China FAW Import and Export Co., Ltd. and Norway’s Motor Gruppen Group officially signed an authorized sales agreement in Drammen, Norway. Under this agreement, Motor Gruppen will become the sales partner for the EH7 and EHS7 electric vehicles in Norway.
HONGQI EH7 & EHS7
Both vehicles were exhibited during the festival and participated in the hill climb run. However, we have not received specific information regarding the European and Norwegian market launch dates and prices for these two new models. It is confirmed that both models were showcased at the Beijing Auto Exhibition, and the EH7 was recently launched in China.
Besides its design incorporating traditional Chinese elements, the EH7 features advanced battery technology that performs exceptionally well in low temperatures, maintaining nearly 70% of its maximum range (approximately 450 km) even in severe weather conditions of -20°C. Both the EH7 and EHS7 are equipped with a powerful 22,500 rpm motor, providing class-leading power of 455 kW and 756 Nm of torque, offering supercar-like acceleration. The variable damping and air suspension system continuously adjust shock absorption hardness, ensuring a smooth ride.
Finally, these models excel in extreme safety, meeting the dual five-star safety standards of CNCAP and Euro NCAP. Internally, the batteries use aviation-grade insulation materials to prevent fire risks from thermal diffusion, while externally, they function normally after 60 hours of immersion, regardless of heavy rain conditions.
