Hongqi is more than just a car brand — it’s a symbol of national pride.
If you’re asking, “Who owns the Hongqi car company?” , the answer is straightforward: Hongqi is owned by FAW Group (First Automobile Works) , which is majority-owned by the Chinese government through the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission (SASAC) .
This makes Hongqi a state-backed automaker , unlike private Chinese brands like BYD, Geely, or Chery . In this article, we’ll explore who owns Hongqi, its history, and how it plays a strategic role in China’s automotive ambitions.
What Is the Hongqi Brand?
Hongqi , which translates to “Red Flag” , is China’s most prestigious automotive brand. It was launched in 1958 and has long been associated with government officials, military leaders, and elite buyers .
Today, Hongqi is being repositioned as a modern luxury brand , aiming to compete with international giants like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Tesla , while still maintaining its symbolic status in China .
Who Owns the Hongqi Car Company?
✅ Hongqi is owned by FAW Group (First Automobile Works)
✅ FAW Group is majority-owned by the Chinese government via SASAC
Ownership Structure:
| 🚘Hongqi | Luxury brand under FAW Group |
| 🏢FAW Group | State-owned enterprise (SOE) |
| 🏛️Chinese Government | Majority owner via SASAC |
This means that Hongqi is ultimately state-owned , making it one of the few luxury car brands in the world with full government backing .
A Brief History of Hongqi
- 📅 1958 : First introduced as a symbol of China’s industrial strength
- 👑 1960s–1990s : Reserved almost exclusively for high-ranking government officials
- 🚀 2000s–Present : Rebranded and modernized for broader luxury market
- ⚡ 2020s : Major push into electric vehicles and international markets
Hongqi has evolved from being a symbol of political authority to a global luxury brand backed by significant government investment.
Why Is Hongqi Important to China?
Hongqi is not just another car brand — it represents national pride and technological ambition . Here’s why it matters:
- 🇨🇳 National Symbol : Seen as China’s flagship luxury brand
- 👔 Government Use : Still used by top officials and ceremonial events
- 💰 Massive Investment : Billions in funding for EV development and global expansion
- 🌍 Global Ambitions : Expanding into overseas markets including Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia
The Chinese government sees Hongqi as a key player in its effort to build world-class domestic industries across sectors — including automotive.
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 compared to the Audi A8 or Mercedes S-Class .
2. Hongqi E-HS9 (Electric SUV)
- Class: Full-size luxury electric 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 .
How Is Hongqi Different From Other Chinese Brands?
| 🧾 Ownership | State-owned | Privately owned |
| 🎯 Mission | National prestige + luxury | Mass-market appeal |
| 💰 Funding Source | Government-backed | Private investment |
| 🌐 Global Strategy | Selective export focus | Aggressive international expansion |
| 🔋 EV Push | Strong, supported by policy incentives | Market-driven innovation |
Hongqi benefits from unmatched financial support , allowing it to develop advanced technologies and position itself as a premium alternative in the global luxury space.
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 aims to become a recognized name in the luxury EV space , competing with both traditional and new-energy automakers.
Final Thoughts
So, who owns the Hongqi car company? The answer is clear: Hongqi is owned by FAW Group , which is state-owned by the Chinese government . This makes Hongqi one of the only fully state-backed luxury car brands in the world .
With strong government backing, growing international presence, and a clear focus on electric mobility and prestige , Hongqi is no longer just a symbol of power — it’s becoming a serious contender in the global luxury car market.
Whether you’re in Beijing, Berlin, or Dubai , keep an eye out — you may soon see more Hongqi cars on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Who owns the Hongqi car company?
A: Hongqi is owned by FAW Group , which is majority-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 high-tech 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 .