The HiPhi Z 120 kWh is a fully electric, four-seater sedan produced by HiPhi, a sub-brand of Chinese automotive manufacturer Human Horizons. Introduced in December 2022, production continued through 2024. The Z represents HiPhi’s commitment to luxury electric vehicles, incorporating advanced technology and a focus on passenger experience. This particular variant, equipped with a 120 kWh battery and dual-motor all-wheel drive (i4WD) system, positioned itself as the flagship model within the HiPhi Z lineup, offering the highest performance and longest range. It aimed to compete with established luxury EV manufacturers like Tesla, Porsche, and Mercedes-Benz in the burgeoning electric vehicle market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | HiPhi |
| Model | Z |
| Generation | Z |
| Type | 120 kWh (672 Hp) i4WD 4 Seater |
| Start of production | December, 2022 |
| End of production | 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.8 kg/Hp, 264.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 323 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 120 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxides (Li-NMC) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 555 km (344.86 mi) |
| Electric motor 1 Power | 336 Hp |
| Electric motor 1 Torque | 410 Nm (302.4 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor 1 Location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 1 Type | Synchronous |
| Electric motor 2 Power | 336 Hp |
| Electric motor 2 Torque | 410 Nm (302.4 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor 2 Location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 2 Type | Synchronous |
| System power | 672 Hp |
| System torque | 820 Nm (604.8 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 2539 kg (5597.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 316 l (11.16 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 654 l (23.1 cu. ft.) |
| Length | 5036 mm (198.27 in.) |
| Width | 2018 mm (79.45 in.) |
| Height | 1439 mm (56.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3150 mm (124.02 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels, one electric motor drives the rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 1 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Front Tires | 255/45 R22 |
| Rear Tires | 285/40 R22 |
| Front Wheel Rims | 22 |
| Rear Wheel Rims | 22 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The HiPhi Z 120 kWh utilizes a dual-motor, all-wheel drive (i4WD) powertrain. Each axle is powered by a synchronous electric motor producing 336 horsepower and 410 Nm (302.4 lb.-ft.) of torque. Combined, the system delivers a total output of 672 horsepower and 820 Nm (604.8 lb.-ft.) of torque. The 120 kWh battery pack, employing Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide (Li-NMC) chemistry, is mounted under the floor, contributing to a low center of gravity and improved handling. The battery supports fast charging capabilities, though specific charging times vary depending on the charging infrastructure. The single-speed automatic transmission is inherent to electric vehicle design, providing seamless power delivery. The i4WD system allows for sophisticated torque vectoring, enhancing both performance and stability.
Driving Characteristics
The HiPhi Z 120 kWh delivers impressive acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 3.6 seconds. The dual-motor setup provides instant torque and responsive performance. The i4WD system ensures excellent traction in various conditions. While the single-speed transmission simplifies the driving experience, it lacks the gear ratios found in traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. This results in a linear power delivery, which some drivers may find less engaging than a multi-gear setup. The low center of gravity, thanks to the underfloor battery pack, contributes to confident cornering and reduced body roll. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing a connected feel to the road.
Equipment & Trim Levels
As the flagship variant, the HiPhi Z 120 kWh came standard with a comprehensive suite of features. These included a large touchscreen infotainment system, a premium sound system, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, and a panoramic sunroof. Interior upholstery typically consisted of high-quality leather or synthetic materials, with options for various color schemes. The HiPhi Z also featured a unique “light curtain” grille and electronically controlled doors. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system, upgraded audio, and various customization options for the interior and exterior.
Chassis & Braking
The HiPhi Z utilizes a double wishbone suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, optimized for both comfort and handling. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability control (ESC) system and anti-lock braking system (ABS) work in conjunction to enhance safety and control. The vehicle’s relatively high curb weight (2539 kg / 5597.54 lbs.) necessitates a robust braking system and well-tuned suspension to maintain composure under hard braking and cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The HiPhi Z 120 kWh received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its performance, technology, and luxurious interior. However, some reviewers noted the vehicle’s high price point and the relatively limited charging infrastructure in certain markets. Compared to other high-performance electric sedans, such as the Tesla Model S Plaid and Porsche Taycan Turbo, the HiPhi Z offered a competitive level of performance and features, but with a distinct design aesthetic and a focus on passenger comfort. Its range of 555 km (344.86 mi) on the WLTP cycle was comparable to other long-range EVs in its class.
Legacy
The HiPhi Z 120 kWh represents a significant step forward for Human Horizons and the Chinese EV industry. While its long-term reliability remains to be fully assessed, the vehicle’s advanced technology and luxurious features have established HiPhi as a contender in the global electric vehicle market. On the used car market, the HiPhi Z is still relatively new, but early indications suggest that well-maintained examples hold their value reasonably well. The 120 kWh variant, being the top-of-the-line model, is likely to be particularly sought after by enthusiasts and those prioritizing performance and range.
