Chinese luxury brand Hongqi, part of state-owned FAW Group, has unveiled its new all-electric EHS5 at the IAA Mobility show in Munich, signaling its latest step toward expanding in Europe’s competitive EV sector. The mid-size SUV, the company says, is designed to meet both the everyday and long-distance travel needs of European families, offering robust safety, spacious interiors, and advanced digital connectivity.
Founded in 1958, Hongqi is traditionally known in China as a supplier of official state cars powered by combustion engines. In recent years, however, the automaker has pivoted toward electrification and international expansion.
Hongqi made its first move into Europe in 2022 with the flagship E-HS9 electric SUV in Norway and the Netherlands, later bringing the model to Germany. In October 2024, the company expanded its line-up further with the EH7 luxury sedan and EHS7 premium SUV at the Paris Motor Show, deliveries of which began in Europe later that year.
The EHS5, revealed in Munich, will serve as a more compact and affordable option compared to the larger EHS7. While Hongqi has yet to announce pricing or an official launch timeline, industry observers expect the model to come in below the EHS7’s starting price of £59,995 in Europe. The SUV features a 2.90-metre wheelbase and, according to Hongqi, delivers a balance of interior comfort and versatile driving performance.
The vehicle will initially be offered with a two-wheel-drive layout, most likely rear-wheel drive, and is equipped with an 85 kWh LFP battery. The car is expected to achieve a WLTP range of about 550 km with energy consumption of around 16.2 kWh per 100 km. Hongqi says the SUV can recharge from 10% to 80% in roughly 20 minutes using suitable DC fast chargers, though details on charging voltage and maximum output remain undisclosed.
Safety is a key focus. The body structure uses 78% ultra-high-strength steel to maximize crash protection. Active driver-assistance systems include predictive emergency braking (AEB) with multi-scenario detection, 360-degree environmental monitoring, and front and rear cross-traffic alerts with brake intervention.
The cabin is designed with comfort and connectivity in mind. The front ‘Queen’s Seats’ offer 18-way electric adjustment, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Rear passengers benefit from a reclining backrest for added long-distance comfort. Entertainment and connectivity are supported by a 15.6-inch central display with 2.5K resolution, an augmented reality head-up display spanning 65 inches of projection area, and a premium 14-speaker Dynaudio sound system.
The SUV also supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, popular apps such as Spotify and YouTube, and four-zone intelligent voice control. Practical features include Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) power export, wireless smartphone charging, and ample cargo space with 1,611 litres available in the rear boot and an additional 42-litre front frunk for smaller items.