Hongqis

Hongqis refers to the vehicles produced by the Hongqi brand, the premium automobile marque of the Chinese FAW Group. The name Hongqi, meaning “red flag” in Chinese, is a symbol of national prestige and is closely associated with the Chinese state. The plural form is sometimes used informally to refer to the brand’s cars as a group.

History and origins

Hongqi was established in 1958 to supply government limousines for official use. The early production included models such as the CA72 and its later successor, the CA770, a long-wheelbase limousine famous for serving Chinese leaders and appearing in national parades. Through the 1960s and 1970s, Hongqi cars were primarily built for official use, with limited commercial sales. After a period of reduced activity, the brand was revitalized in the 2000s with a new design direction oriented toward the premium market.

Modern era and lineup

In recent years Hongqi has expanded beyond the traditional limousine to offer a broader lineup that includes sedans, SUVs, and concept or electric models. The flagship Hongqi L5 is a long-wheelbase luxury limousine used for state occasions. The mainstream lineup features several series, including the H-series sedans (such as the H7 and H5) and the HS-series SUVs (such as the HS5 and HS7), along with the larger H9 sedan. The brand has pursued international exposure through auto shows and limited overseas sales, aiming to position Hongqi as a Chinese luxury alternative on the global stage.

Design and positioning

Hongqi emphasizes luxury, craftsmanship, and advanced technology, with increasing emphasis on electrification and connectivity as part of its strategic direction. The brand competes with other premium manufacturers in China while seeking broader international presence.