Chinese luxury automotive brand Hongqi has entered the Thai market, unveiling the all-electric E-HS9 sport utility vehicle (SUV) as its initial model in partnership with local Thai automotive distributor Metro Group.
The expansion is intended to target Thailand’s growing electric vehicle segment through the introduction of a range of new-energy vehicles aimed at consumers in the higher-priced vehicle segment.
Speaking at the launch event recently, Zhang Zhigang, General Manager of the Overseas Business Division at China FAW Group and President of China FAW Group Import & Export, stated that Thailand is an automotive market in Southeast Asia.
Zhang said the brand had completed preparations relating to products and distribution channels and was using the E-HS9 as the initial model to establish its presence in the country.
Hongqi’s parent company, China FAW Group Corporation, has appointed Metro Group Co Ltd as its exclusive distributor in Thailand. The company is led by Chief Executive Officer Bodin Boonvisuth following its acquisition of the distribution rights for the brand.
The Hongqi E-HS9 electric SUV is priced at THB 2.99 million (USD90,935) for the first 400 units sold in Thailand. Designed by British automotive designer Giles Taylor, who previously worked at Rolls-Royce, the E-HS9 features a chrome front grille and a red line extending down the centre of the bonnet and into the grille.
The SUV measures 5,209 mm in length and 2,010 mm in width and features a three-row seating configuration, with captain’s seats in the second row. Additional equipment includes a 16-speaker Bose audio system and other comfort-oriented features.
Power is provided by two electric motors producing 493 horsepower and 606Nm of torque. The all-wheel-drive E-HS9 can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 5.5 seconds and has a top speed of 200km/h. It is equipped with a 120kWh ternary lithium battery pack, delivering a claimed driving range of 760km under the CLTC cycle or 623km under the WLTP standard. The battery supports DC fast charging at up to 140kW.
Seven driving modes are available, along with an advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) package. Exterior colour options include Pacific Blue, Jade White, and Imperial Black, while interior colour choices include Saddle Brown, Graphite Black, and Mysterious Gray/Crystal White.
Meanwhile, did you know that Hongqi is officially entering the Malaysian market under the Quill Group, directly following the brand’s shift away from Rolls-Royce distribution in the region. The brand is slated to launch models like the flagship H9 sedan and E-HS9 electric SUV.
