Hongqi made its local debut back in January when it showcased three models at the Motor Show. However, its entry into Singapore's new car market will only begin today, following the opening of its showroom along Leng Kee Road.
The 4,521 square foot facility is designed according to the philosophy of 'shang zhi yi', with the space blending the concepts of 'new nobility', 'new feelings' and 'new delicacy'. Visitors can expect to see heritage walls and modern oriental displays, alongside bespoke furniture, with the common thread being a signature fragrance.
Hongqi is a subsidiary of First Automotive Works (FAW), a state-owned carmaker. The brand is China's oldest car manufacturer - its first model was produced in 1958.
Although Hongqi is a newcomer to the luxury segment here, in its home market it is well-known for its line of high-end luxury models that compete with marques such as Rolls-Royce and Bentley. Many consider the brand a 'Chinese Rolls-Royce'.
Underscoring Singapore's importance as a gateway for Hongqi is the fact that our market is the first to receive right-hand drive models of the E-HS9, which leads the brand's foray here.
The E-HS9 is a six-seater, full-size electric SUV. Its road presence comes not just from its unique styling, but its imposing dimensions as well. The SUV measures 5,209mm long, 2,010mm wide, has a wheelbase length of 3,110mm, and stands 1,713mm tall.
Facing the driver behind the wheel are an 8.8-inch instrument cluster, along with two 15.6-inch touchscreen displays - one for the driver and another for the front passenger. A 16-speaker Bose audio system is standard, and the front seats have ventilation and massage functions, too.
The second row has two individual seats with four-way adjustment, and although ventilation is standard, there are no massage functions. Access to the third-row bench is via the aisle between these seats.
Helping secure occupants is a long list of safety features that includes Roll-Over Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, and Active Braking.
Powering the E-HS9 are a pair of electric motors with a combined output of up to 362kW (485bhp) and 606Nm of torque. Hongqi claims a zero to 100km/h time of 5.5 seconds, which is relatively quick for a car weighing 2,636kg.
The electric motors are fed by a 120kWh ternary lithium-ion battery - the largest capacity battery in a passenger car here. It gives the E-HS9 a WLTP range of 570km. With 400-volt architecture, maximum charging speeds are 11kW for AC and 140kW for DC. Using the latter, it takes 48 minutes for the battery to go from 10% to 80%.
At time of writing, the E-HS9 starts from $500,000 with COE.
Hongqi's official agent in Singapore is Eurokars Elite Pte Ltd, a subsidiary of Eurokars Group, the largest multi-brand distributor in Singapore. Motor tycoon Mr Karsono Kwee, who founded the company in 1985, is its Executive Chairman.
Speaking at the showroom's opening, Mr Chen Bin, Deputy General Manager of China FAW Group Co. Ltd., and Vice-President of Hongqi Operating Committee, said, "Our entry into Southeast Asia with Eurokars Group is a strategic alliance between two entities that share an unwavering commitment to automotive perfection.
"Eurokars Elite has masterfully brought the soul of Hongqi to life in a way that resonates with those who appreciate authentic prestige and innovation. This showroom is a world-class statement of our global ambitions, featuring our flagship E-HS9 as a powerful expression of Eastern design and modern innovation."
Ms Charmain Kwee, Group Executive Director of Eurokars Group, said, "This showroom transcends a retail space - it serves as a cultural sanctuary where the storied heritage of the 'Red Flag' meets a new era of sustainable prestige."
"Working alongside the visionary team at FAW Group has been a rewarding journey. Together, we have created an environment that honours traditional craftsmanship while pioneering the future of intelligent, purposeful luxury."
| Car Model | Price as of press time (inclusive of COE) |
| Hongqi E-HS9 Electric 120kWh (A) | From $500,000 |
