Chinese luxury automaker Hongqi plans to introduce two electric cars in the European market in 2024 despite regulatory barriers like hefty import tariffs, Reuters reported.
Hongqi sets sights on Europe despite tariffs
Hongqi is reportedly planning to launch its electric EH7 and EHS7 cars in a strategic selection of European markets, including Norway, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden.
Hongqi has tapped dealers in the above-mentioned European countries for the sale and distribution of its EV models.
Hongqi is just one of the multiple Chinese automakers trying to penetrate the European market, including BYD, Geely and SAIC.
Notably, the European Commission has imposed provisional tariffs from 17.4% to 37.6% on China-made electric vehicle imports as a result of the anti-subsidy probe.
What’s currently known about the Hongqi EH7 and EHS7?
Hongqi has not yet revealed specific details about the EH7 and EHS7 luxury EVs such as pricing.
However, it’s hinted that these cars can support fast charging of just 30 minutes at -10 degrees celsius (14°F). They can also apparently maintain 50% of their driving range at -20 degrees celsius. These remarkable features make these electric cars “ideal for the colder UK and European climates.”
Hongqi also asserted that the EH7 can deliver a driving range of up to 690 kilometers (429 miles) between charges and charges in just 20 minutes.
Hongqi to partner with Goodwood Festival of Speed this year
Apart from launching its two electric vehicle models, Hongqi will also reportedly become the official partner of the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed in England, according to AFP.
The Chinese automaker will showcase several models at the event from July 11 to 14, 2024 alongside global luxury automakers. These models include the HONGQI Guoya, E-HS9, H9, upcoming EH7 and EHS7.
These initiatives are part of Hongqi’s efforts to accelerate its global expansion push and boost its competitiveness against the surge of new cutting-edge EVs worldwide.
