Hongqi cars combine traditional prestige with modern luxury design.
If you’re asking, “Who is the designer of Hongqi cars?” , the answer involves both in-house Chinese talent and international influence . As a state-owned luxury brand , Hongqi benefits from a dedicated design team based in China , while also drawing inspiration and expertise from global automotive trends and collaborations.
In this article, we’ll explore who designs Hongqi cars, how their look has evolved, and what makes them stand out in the luxury segment.
What Is Hongqi?
Before diving into its design team, it’s important to understand what Hongqi represents:
- 🚘 Luxury brand under FAW Group
- 🇨🇳 State-owned by the Chinese government
- 👑 Historically used by high-ranking officials
- ⚡ Now pushing into electric vehicles and international markets
Hongqi, meaning “Red Flag” , is not just a car brand — it’s a symbol of national pride and prestige in China.
Who Designs Hongqi Cars?
Hongqi cars are primarily designed by an in-house team at FAW Group , with significant contributions from international consultants and design houses . While the core design direction is led from China , the brand incorporates global styling cues and engineering insights to compete in the international luxury market.
Key Design Centers Involved:
- 📍 Changchun, China – Headquarters of FAW Group and main design hub
- 📍 Shanghai, China – Advanced R&D and digital modeling center
- 📍 Europe & Japan – Collaborations with external design studios and consultants
This blend of local expertise and global input allows Hongqi to maintain its distinctive identity while appealing to international tastes .
The Evolution of Hongqi’s Design Language
Over the years, Hongqi has gone through a major transformation in design:
- 📅 1960s–1990s : Classic, formal styling meant to reflect authority and tradition.
- 🔄 2000s–2010s : Gradual shift toward modern luxury with Western-inspired elements.
- 🚀 2020s–Present : Bold, contemporary looks with strong emphasis on electric mobility, aerodynamics, and smart interiors .
Today’s Hongqi models feature sharp LED lighting, elegant proportions, and premium materials , positioning them as serious competitors to BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Tesla .
Notable Designers and Teams Behind Hongqi
While the full list of individual designers isn’t widely publicized, here are the key contributors shaping Hongqi’s visual identity:
1. FAW Group In-House Design Team
- Based in Changchun, China
- Led by senior designers within FAW Research Institute
- Focus: Balancing heritage with modern luxury
The in-house team is responsible for concept development, clay modeling, and final execution of all Hongqi vehicles.
2. Collaboration with International Consultants
- Partnered with European and Japanese design firms for specific projects
- Some exterior and interior elements inspired by German and Scandinavian luxury aesthetics
- Use of digital rendering studios in Italy and South Korea for advanced visualization
These partnerships help Hongqi stay competitive with global standards while maintaining its own unique identity.
3. EV Design Influence
- Hongqi’s electric models like the E-HS9 have been shaped by new energy vehicle (NEV) design trends
- Aerodynamic efficiency, minimalist interiors, and AI-driven cabin experiences are central themes
- Inspiration drawn from brands like Tesla, BYD, and BMW iX
As Hongqi expands its EV lineup, its design language continues to evolve toward a more futuristic and tech-forward approach .
Signature Design Features of Hongqi Cars
| 🔱Emblem & Grille | Large red flag emblem; bold vertical grille design reflecting Chinese symbolism |
| 🌟LED Lighting | Sharp, elegant headlights and taillights with signature light bars |
| 🧱Interior Craftsmanship | High-quality leather, wood trim, and ambient lighting |
| 🎨Color Palette | Traditional colors like red and black, with modern metallic options |
| 📐Proportions | Long hoods and wheelbases give a commanding presence |
These features create a distinctive visual identity that reflects both Chinese culture and modern luxury expectations .
Popular Hongqi Models and Their Design Highlights
1. Hongqi H9
- Class: Full-size luxury sedan
- Design Style: Formal, elegant, and grand
- Interior: Rich materials, rear passenger comfort, executive seating
The H9 is often compared to the Mercedes S-Class or Audi A8 , with a strong focus on dignified elegance .
2. Hongqi E-HS9 (Electric SUV)
- Class: Full-size electric luxury SUV
- Design Style: Sleek, aerodynamic, tech-forward
- Interior: Digital dashboards, Level 2 ADAS, biometric access
The E-HS9 targets both domestic and international luxury buyers , blending traditional prestige with electric innovation .
3. Hongqi HS7 / HS5
- Class: Mid to full-size SUV
- Design Style: Aggressive front fascia, chrome accents
- Interior: Tech-heavy dashboard with large infotainment screens
These models help expand Hongqi’s appeal beyond official use and into the mainstream luxury market .
How Does Hongqi Compare to Other Brands in Design?
| 🚗 Mercedes-Benz | German luxury | Elegant lines and premium feel | More established global image |
| 🚗 BMW | Sporty sophistication | Strong presence and tech focus | Wider model range and heritage |
| 🚗 Tesla | Futuristic minimalism | Electric focus and smart tech | Less cultural symbolism |
| 🚗 BYD | Chinese innovation | Growing luxury appeal | Private ownership, mass-market focus |
Hongqi stands out by combining cultural symbolism with modern luxury , making it a unique player in the global automotive design scene .
Final Thoughts
So, who is the designer of Hongqi cars? A combination of in-house talent at FAW Group and international collaborators , working together to craft vehicles that represent Chinese heritage and modern ambition .
From the stately H9 to the sleek E-HS9 , Hongqi is no longer just a symbol of political power — it’s becoming a globally recognized name in luxury car design .
Whether you’re in Beijing, Berlin, or Dubai , keep an eye out — you may soon see more Hongqi cars on the road, all designed with pride in China.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Who is the designer of Hongqi cars?
A: Hongqi cars are designed by an in-house team at FAW Group , with support from international consultants and design partners .
Q: Are Hongqi cars designed in China?
A: Yes, all Hongqi cars are designed and manufactured in China , primarily at FAW’s headquarters in Changchun.
Q: Does Hongqi work with foreign designers?
A: Yes, Hongqi collaborates with international design firms and consultants , especially for electric and autonomous vehicle development.
Q: What does the Hongqi logo mean?
A: The red flag symbolizes national pride, strength, and prestige — core values of the brand.
Q: Is Hongqi expanding globally?
A: Yes, Hongqi is now available in parts of Europe, the Middle East, Russia, and Southeast Asia .