Australia’s growing list of Chinese automotive brands adds another new arrival. The luxury marque Hongqi is reportedly preparing to launch locally with its E-HS9 SUV.
It is best known for its large luxury sedans used to transport dignitaries and senior government officials in China. Hongqi is now expanding its global footprint and appears ready to enter the Australian market.
According to The Straits Times, in an article republished on Hongqi’s Singapore website, the brand plans to launch in Australia, the United Kingdom and Malaysia during the second half of 2026.
Those markets will follow Hongqi’s recent expansion into several right-hand-drive countries, including Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, and Hong Kong.
Australia presence already taking shape
There are fresh signs that Hongqi’s Australian launch is progressing. An Australian Business Number (ABN) listing for Greentech Smart EV Pty Ltd, active since August 2023, was recently updated to include two business names: HongQi Australia and HQ ANZ.
The update suggests preparations for an Australian launch may be underway.
E-HS9 expected to lead the Australian launch
Thus far, Hongqi is offering just one right-hand-drive model, the E-HS9 large electric SUV at present. The E-HS9 entered production in 2020 and has already been used as the brand’s launch model in Europe.
Hongqi has since expanded its electric model range with additional electric models, including E-HS5 SUV, E-HS7 SUV and E-H7 sedan.
In Singapore, the company currently sells only the E-HS9, although Hongqi’s Asia-Pacific boss Liu Jifang told The Straits Times that “several” additional models are expected to follow within the next 12 months.
Bigger than a Volvo EX90
The E-HS9 is a full-size luxury SUV with imposing dimensions. It is 172mm longer than a Volvo EX90 and rides on a 125mm longer wheelbase.
| Measurement | Hongqi E-HS9 SUV |
| Length | 5209mm |
| Width | 2010mm |
| Height | 1713mm |
| Wheelbase | 3110mm |
Large battery and strong performance
Right-hand-drive versions of the E-HS9 are offered exclusively with the largest battery available. Here are its powertrain and performance details:
- 120kWh battery
- 515km WLTP driving range
- 400V electrical architecture
- All-wheel-drive system: 202kW and 306Nm (front motor) | 160kW and 300Nm (rear motor)
- 0–100km/h acceleration in 5.5 seconds
Luxury-focused interior
The E-HS9 comes with an extensive list of standard equipment. Its interior features and technology include:
- 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster
- Dual 15.6-inch front touchscreens
- Panoramic sunroof
- Air suspension
- Matrix LED headlights
- Heated, ventilated and massage-equipped front seats
- Six-seat layout with second-row captain’s chairs or Seven-seat configuration
Hongqi describes the cabin as blending Chinese design influences with understated luxury.
Australian pricing still unknown
Hongqi has not confirmed Australian pricing for the E-HS9. The luxury electric SUV would compete with other premium three-row electric SUVs if introduced locally, including:
- Cadillac Vistiq, priced from $116,000 before on-road costs
- Volvo EX90, priced from $106,990 plus on-road costs
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Also read: EVs dominate the new car sales in China in May 2026
A Chinese brand with deep history
Hongqi was China’s first domestic passenger car brand. It was launched in 1958 by First Auto Works (FAW). FAW itself was established in 1953 to build military and commercial vehicles.
Hongqi translates to “Red Flag” or “Red Banner.” It specialised in producing official limousines for senior Communist Party officials for decades.
It continues to build official government vehicles but Hongqi significantly expanded during the 2010s by entering new market segments and targeting private buyers.
Hongqi began exporting vehicles in the late 2010s and entered its first European market, Norway, in 2021. The company now plans to launch 15 new models including EVs and hybrids in Europe by 2028.
Backed by one of China’s biggest carmakers
Hongqi’s parent company, FAW, is one of China’s Big Four state-owned automotive manufacturers. The other members are Changan, SAIC Motor, and Dongfeng.
FAW already sells heavy trucks in Australia but it has never officially offered passenger cars, SUVs or light commercial vehicles here.
Luxury design with global expertise
Hongqi’s design team is led by Giles Taylor who formerly worked with Rolls-Royce. A signature styling element across the range is the distinctive red flag-inspired accent integrated into each vehicle’s grille to reflect both the brand’s heritage and its name.
Bottom line
Hongqi, one of China’s oldest and most prestigious automotive brands, is reportedly preparing to enter Australia during the second half of 2026. The E-HS9 electric luxury SUV is expected to spearhead the launch. It offers a large battery, premium features and spacious six- or seven-seat layouts.
The Australian pricing and final model details remain unconfirmed. Hongqi’s arrival would further expand the growing presence of premium Chinese car brands in the local market.
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