Metro Group, showcasing over 70 years of automotive experience, has officially secured the rights to distribute China's leading automobile brand HONGQI. It debuts in the market with the HONGQI E-HS9, a 100% electric premium SUV with right-hand drive, distinguished by luxurious design from a former Rolls-Royce designer. Powered by dual motors producing 493 horsepower, it offers a maximum range of 760 kilometers and has proven robust performance through a 6,000-kilometer test drive from the Great Wall of China to Bangkok. The company also revealed plans to expand 10 showrooms nationwide within 3 years.
Mr. Bodin Boonvisut, CEO of Metro Group, stated that the key to gaining trust from China FAW Group Corporation to become the official distributor of HONGQI vehicles in Thailand is Metro Group’s over 70 years of automotive business experience. This has positioned Thailand as one of the first markets globally to launch the right-hand drive HONGQI E-HS9 model.
The HONGQI E-HS9 is a premium electric SUV that combines advanced technology with elegance. It features a distinctive vertical chrome waterfall grille with a red flag emblem, a red light strip running along the center of the hood, a six-seat cabin, and a premium BOSE sound system with 16 speakers, making it luxurious and suitable for businesspeople, executives, and modern families.
The HONGQI E-HS9 was designed by Giles Taylor, a British car designer who previously worked for Rolls-Royce, blending classic and modern elements seamlessly.
Equipped with an AWD (All-Wheel Drive) dual motor system generating up to 362 kilowatts (493 horsepower) and maximum torque of 606 Newton-meters, the HONGQI E-HS9 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds. It features a high-capacity 120 kWh Ternary Lithium battery with a maximum range of 760 kilometers (CLTC), supports DC fast charging up to 140 kilowatts, offers 7 driving modes, and includes advanced autonomous driving assistance with comprehensive intelligent safety technology.
Mr. Bodin added that this model has passed the ultimate test of electric vehicle endurance with a historic journey as part of the One Belt One Road initiative, covering over 6,000 kilometers from the Great Wall of China through Laos to Bangkok, completing the trip smoothly without any issues.
Metro Group plans to expand its dealer network to 10 locations within 3 years, focusing on Bangkok and major cities across all regions, while building comprehensive trust through proactive marketing activities and enhancing after-sales service quality.
They guarantee full availability of spare parts and offer peace of mind through the “Close to You” strategy, overcoming distance barriers by providing exclusive services that deliver convenience directly to customers’ homes.
To celebrate the launch, Metro Group offers a special promotion for the first 400 HONGQI E-HS9 customers, including a special purchase price, a premium package with one year of free first-class insurance, a free wall charger installation, 24-hour roadside assistance for 5 years, a 5-year or 150,000-kilometer vehicle warranty, and an 8-year or 160,000-kilometer battery warranty.
The HONGQI E-HS9 comes in three exterior colors reflecting refined luxury: Pacific Blue, White Jade, and Imperial Black. The interior offers three styles: Saddle Brown, Graphite Black, and a two-tone Mysterious Gray/Crystal White.
“With the distinctive identity of the HONGQI E-HS9 combined with the capabilities of Metro Group and its regional dealers, I am confident the HONGQI E-HS9 will deliver a premium electric vehicle experience to Thai customers,” Mr. Bodin said.
HONGQI, meaning "Red Flag," is a car brand established in 1958 by FAW Group, a large state-owned enterprise under the Chinese government. It stands as the most prestigious luxury car brand in China, trusted as the official vehicle for the president and top leaders during major global ceremonies. This image reflects meticulous craftsmanship, advanced technology, and the highest safety standards.
Currently, FAW Group is actively promoting the HONGQI brand from a national to an international level by introducing the flagship HONGQI E-HS9 to succeed in challenging markets such as Europe and the Middle East.