Chinese luxury automaker Hongqi recently debuted its new electric models during the 2023 Shanghai Motor Show, as reported by GizChina. The Hongqi E001 and Hongqi E202, which will soon have their European launch, claim an astounding “1,000 km of autonomy and a one-minute recharge.”
The Hongqi E001 and Hongqi E202
The Hongqi E001 electric sedan utilizes the FMEs platform. Its wheels can rotate 90 degrees, enabling effortless maneuvering. Another interesting detail is the car’s autonomy ranges from 850 km to 900 km on the European WLTP cycle. However, the claimed 1,000 km autonomy is currently calculated through the Chinese CLTC cycle, renowned for its high figures. Per the report, the sedan’s first variant will offer 600 km autonomy on the same cycle. It can apparently recharge its battery within just one minute via a battery swap system, like NIO.
Meanwhile, the Hongqi E202 electric SUV uses an 800-volt architecture, similar to the Porsche Taycan and Kia EV6. It is equipped with CATL’s Qilin battery, with an average charging capacity of 300 km in just 5 minutes. It boasts a range of up to 1,000 km between charges. Moreover, it supports level 3 autonomous driving owing to a LiDar incorporated on the roof. However, a human driver must still be present.
Unfortunately, Hongqi has not yet disclosed the full and final specifications of the vehicles, along with their prices. It is only natural as they are currently in the concept phase. Nonetheless, automotive experts suggest these new EVs will be competitive in the auto market.
Apart from Hongqi, Chinese automaker Zeekr has also set its eyes on the European market. Zeekr already has EVs with about 1,000 km range, including the 001 sedans and 009 vans.
Hongqi will launch the E001 sedan in its home market in November 2023. The E202 SUV will follow it in February 2024. As for its European launch (Germany, Norway, Sweden, Netherlands, and France), there is no exact timeline yet, but a Netherlands importer reportedly signed a deal with the brand. Meanwhile, Norway already markets its products, such as the electric E-HS9 limousine.
See Also:
- Zeekr X EV sighted ahead of its European launch
- Global electric automakers to exhibit their latest models at the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show
- BYD unveils Seagull EV at 2023 Shanghai Auto Show
- CATL presents its new “Condensed Battery” at the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show
- Honda debuts three all-electric SUVs at the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show
Indeed, Hongqi’s new electric cars will be a welcome addition to the auto industry. They boast astounding autonomy and rapid charging capacity.
