Hongqi cars are a symbol of prestige and national pride in China.
If you’re asking, “Who owns Hongqi cars?” , the answer is clear: Hongqi is owned by FAW Group (First Automobile Works) , which is state-owned by the Chinese government . This makes Hongqi not just a car brand — it’s a national icon , often associated with government officials, high-ranking officials, and elite buyers in China .
In this article, we’ll explore who owns Hongqi cars, its history, and how it has evolved into one of China’s most prestigious automotive brands .
What Is Hongqi?
Hongqi , which means “Red Flag” , is a luxury car brand that was first launched in 1958 under the FAW Group (First Automobile Works), China’s oldest and one of its most influential automakers.
Historically, Hongqi cars were reserved for high-level government officials , including members of the Communist Party and military leaders . Today, while still closely tied to the state, Hongqi is being positioned as a modern luxury brand competing with international names like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and even Tesla .
Who Owns Hongqi Cars?
✅ Hongqi is owned by FAW Group , which in turn is majority-owned by the Chinese government through SASAC (State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission) .
Key Ownership Structure:
| 🚘Hongqi | Luxury brand under FAW Group |
| 🏢FAW Group | State-owned enterprise |
| 🏛️Chinese Government | Majority owner via SASAC |
This means Hongqi is ultimately a state-owned brand , making it unique compared to private Chinese automakers like BYD, Geely, or Chery .
A Brief History of Hongqi
- 📅 1958 : First introduced as a symbol of Chinese industrial might
- 👑 1960s–1990s : Used almost exclusively by top government officials
- 🚀 2000s–Present : Rebranded and modernized for broader luxury market
- ⚡ 2020s : Push into electric vehicles and global ambitions
Hongqi has gone from being a symbol of political power to a full-fledged luxury automaker , backed by heavy investment from both FAW and the Chinese government .
Why Is Hongqi So Important in China?
Hongqi is more than just a car brand — it’s a national brand , promoted as part of China’s effort to build world-class domestic industries.
Some reasons why Hongqi holds special status:
- 🇨🇳 National Pride : Promoted as China’s own luxury car brand
- 👔 Government Use : Still used by high-ranking officials and ceremonial events
- 💰 Massive Investment : Backed by billions in government funding for EV development
- 🌍 Global Ambitions : Expanding into overseas markets, especially in Asia, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe
Popular Hongqi Models (2025)
1. Hongqi H9
- Class: Full-size luxury sedan
- Engine: 3.0L V6 Turbo or 4.0L V8 Hybrid
- Target Market: Elite buyers and government use
The H9 is Hongqi’s flagship model, often seen as China’s answer to the Audi A8 or Mercedes S-Class .
2. Hongqi E-HS9 (Electric SUV)
- Class: Full-size electric luxury SUV
- Range: Up to 510 km (WLTP)
- Features: Leather interiors, Level 2 ADAS, rear entertainment screens
The E-HS9 targets both domestic luxury buyers and international EV customers , with sales in Europe and the Middle East.
3. Hongqi HS7 / HS5
- Class: Mid to full-size SUV
- Engine: 2.0L Turbo or Plug-in Hybrid
- Focus: Family and executive buyers seeking premium features
These models help expand Hongqi’s reach beyond official use and into the mainstream luxury segment .
Is Hongqi Going Global?
Yes — Hongqi is expanding internationally, with plans to enter key markets such as:
- 🇪🇺 Europe – Testing emissions standards and entering select markets like Germany and Italy
- 🇲🇪 Middle East – Strong presence in Saudi Arabia and UAE
- 🇷🇺 Russia – Growing exports amid Western brand withdrawal
- 🇸🇬 Southeast Asia – Entering Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia
Hongqi is positioning itself as a premium EV-focused brand , aiming to rival both traditional and new-energy automakers globally.
How Does Hongqi Compare to Other Brands?
| 🚗 BYD | China (Private) | EV focus, growing luxury appeal | More mass-market oriented |
| 🚗 BMW / Mercedes | Germany | Luxury image, strong design | Longer heritage, wider global presence |
| 🚗 NIO / Li Auto | China (Private) | High-tech interiors, smart features | More consumer-focused branding |
| 🚗 Lexus | Japan | Premium feel, hybrid tech | More established in luxury segments |
Hongqi offers a unique blend of state-backed prestige and modern luxury , with increasing emphasis on electric mobility and smart technology .
Final Thoughts
So, who owns Hongqi cars? They are owned and operated by FAW Group , which is state-owned by the Chinese government . This makes Hongqi a rare example of a fully state-backed luxury car brand trying to compete on the global stage.
With support from Beijing and aggressive expansion into electric vehicles and international markets, Hongqi is no longer just a symbol of authority — it’s becoming a player in the global luxury car industry .
Whether you’re in Beijing, Berlin, or Dubai , keep an eye out — you may start seeing more Hongqi cars on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Who owns Hongqi cars?
A: Hongqi is owned by FAW Group , which is state-owned by the Chinese government .
Q: Is Hongqi made in China?
A: Yes, all Hongqi cars are designed and manufactured in China , primarily at FAW’s plants.
Q: Are Hongqi cars reliable?
A: Modern Hongqi models have improved significantly in quality and come with long warranties and advanced safety systems .
Q: Does Hongqi make electric cars?
A: Yes, models like the Hongqi E-HS9 are fully electric and marketed internationally.
Q: Can I buy a Hongqi outside of China?
A: Yes, Hongqi is now available in parts of Europe, the Middle East, Russia, and Southeast Asia .