History and Founding of Hongqi: The Red Banner Heritage. The name Hongqi (meaning "Red Flag" in Chinese) symbolizes the spirit and revolution of China. It originated in 1958 with the first Hongqi car (model CA72) produced on 1 August 1958 by First Automobile Works (FAW) in Changchun, the first automobile factory in China established with Soviet support.
Vehicles for the Leader
In its early years, Hongqi did not produce cars for the public but built official vehicles for Chairman Mao Zedong and senior Communist Party leaders, as well as VIP guests such as U.S. President Richard Nixon in 1972.
Modern Era (2018 - Present)
After focusing on government markets for years, in 2018 Hongqi, under FAW Group, shifted strategy to enter the global market and premium consumer segment. They brought in Giles Taylor, former Rolls-Royce designer, to create a luxurious yet contemporary brand image.
Market Entry and Registered Capital in Thailand
In 2026, Hongqi officially entered the Thai market through a significant partnership.
Official distributor: Metro Group, managed by the Boonvisut family, was appointed as the sole importer and distributor (CBU) in Thailand.
Registered capital: Although the exact registered capital of the new Hongqi legal entity in Thailand is not fully disclosed, operations fall under Metro Group, which has a strong foundation managing major brands like Toyota, Mitsubishi, Honda, and Zeekr. They emphasize stability by establishing the first flagship showroom and premium standard service center.
Brand Strategy
Thailand was chosen as an early market among right-hand drive countries where Hongqi seriously launched to use as a base for expansion into the ASEAN region.
Models marketed in Thailand for 2026
Hongqi divides its Thai product lineup into two main groups: Ultra Luxury (combustion/hybrid engines) and EV (100% electric):
SUV and Electric Vehicle Series (EV Series)
Hongqi E-HS9 (flagship) is a full-size, 100% electric luxury SUV that has earned the most recognition.
Hongqi Tiangong 06 (New 2026): A new mid-size electric SUV currently undergoing testing in Thailand, targeting a broader mass premium market.
Hongqi E-QM5 is a futuristic electric sedan focusing on rear-seat comfort, often used as a high-end limousine.
Sedan and Luxury Series (H Series)
Hongqi H9 is a large luxury full-size sedan with a two-tone design, directly competing with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series.
Hongqi H6 is a sporty sedan with sleek styling, aimed at younger executives who enjoy spirited driving.
The Hongqi E-HS9 Premium (also called Flagship/Long Range in some markets) is a 100% electric Ultra-Luxury SUV from China’s "Red Flag" brand, often called the "Rolls-Royce of the East" due to its luxurious design and massive size.
Body Dimensions and Exterior Appearance
The vehicle measures 5,209 mm long, 2,010 mm wide, and 1,731 mm high, comparable in size to the BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS SUV. It has a 3,110 mm wheelbase (extended to provide extra rear seat space) and a curb weight of approximately 2,700 kg.
Exterior design features include a large waterfall-style grille with vertical LED light strips extending to the hood (Light Signature). The sides have pop-out door handles and soft-close electric doors. The rear features elongated LED taillights connecting both sides with layered graphic design.
Powertrain and Performance
Equipped with dual electric motors driving all four wheels (AWD), it delivers about 551 horsepower (405 kW) and 750 Newton-meters of torque. It uses a single-speed automatic transmission (fixed ratio). Acceleration: 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. Battery options include 99 kWh or 120 kWh (Premium/Flagship models). Range is approximately 441 - 515 km (WLTP) or up to 660 km (NEDC), depending on battery size.
Suspension and Steering System
Front suspension is independent double wishbone; rear is independent multi-link. It features air suspension with automatic height and softness adjustment plus adaptive dampers. Steering is electric power-assisted (EPS) with a turning radius of 6.1 meters, supported by rear-wheel steering. Wheels are alloy, sized 21 or 22 inches depending on the package, with tires 265/45 R21 or 275/40 R22.
The estimated price is around 3,290,000 to 3,690,000 baht (globally, top models start just above 4 million baht for the 4-seat Executive version).
Battery and Vehicle Warranty Conditions
Hongqi often offers generous deals to build confidence among Thai customers. Battery warranty covers 8 years or 160,000 - 200,000 km, guaranteeing battery health (SOH) no less than 70-80%. Vehicle warranty lasts 5 to 6 years or 150,000 km. Special benefits include free Wallbox charger and complimentary maintenance (VPSP) during the launch period.