Human Horizons, a Shanghai-based start-up specializing in autonomous driving technology and luxury electric vehicles (EVs), has announced plans to expand into European markets. The announcement follows the successful completion of testing by TÜV SÜD, which approved the sale of Human Horizon’s flagship X EV in Europe. This move marks an important milestone for the Chinese company, which launched its HiPhi EV brand a year after its official founding in 2017.
The HiPhi brand debuted with three concept designs, including the HiPhi 1 SUV, which eventually evolved into the HiPhi X SUV, the company’s first production model. The HiPhi X SUV, which began deliveries in 2020, was followed by the HiPhi Z, a “digital GT” EV that features automatic ultrawide band suicide doors, a wraparound Star-Ring ISD light curtain, and a robotic arm connected to the dash display.
To gain European approval for the HiPhi X SUV, TÜV SÜD analyzed the vehicle’s battery management system, chassis control, brakes, steering, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) features like park assist and radar-guided cruise control. HiPhi CTO and co-founder Mark Stanton praised the approval, stating that “European road safety standards are among the strictest in the world, and the homologation by TÜV SÜD confirms that HiPhi X meets these standards.”
Although the immediate focus for Human Horizons in Europe will be the HiPhi X SUV, the company has confirmed plans to sell the HiPhi Z model in Europe as well. Further details regarding launch markets and timelines will be announced at the upcoming Shanghai Auto Show, where Human Horizons will unveil its third EV model, the HiPhi Y. The company designed and engineered the HiPhi Y with global markets in mind, and it is expected to eventually make its way to Europe.
As Human Horizons expands its footprint in Europe, the company is positioning itself as a leader in the luxury EV market. With its focus on autonomous driving technology and cutting-edge design features, Human Horizons is poised to compete with established luxury automakers like Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW. As the EV market continues to grow and evolve, it will be interesting to see how Human Horizons’ HiPhi brand fares in the highly competitive European market.
