The Hongqi E-HS9 99 kWh (551 Hp) AWD 6 Seat is a full-size, all-electric sport utility vehicle (SUV) produced by the Chinese automotive manufacturer Hongqi, a subsidiary of FAW Group. Introduced in 2020, the E-HS9 represents Hongqi’s foray into the burgeoning luxury electric vehicle market, aiming to compete with established international brands. This particular variant, equipped with a 99 kWh battery pack and dual-motor all-wheel drive, positions itself as a high-end offering within the E-HS9 lineup, emphasizing performance and range alongside spaciousness and luxury appointments. The E-HS9 is significant as one of the first fully electric vehicles from Hongqi, a brand historically associated with traditional, combustion-engine luxury cars.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hongqi |
| Model | E-HS9 |
| Generation | E-HS9 |
| Type | 99 kWh (551 Hp) AWD 6 Seat |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| 0-100 km/h | 4.9 sec |
| 0-62 mph | 4.9 sec |
| 0-60 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.8 kg/Hp, 209.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 285.2 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 99 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 90 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 410 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery weight | 553 kg (1219.16 lbs) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 465 km (288.94 mi) |
| Electric motor 1 power | 218 Hp |
| Electric motor 1 torque | 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor 1 model/code | CAM220PT2 |
| Electric motor 1 max revolutions | 15000 rpm |
| Electric motor 1 location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 2 power | 333 Hp |
| Electric motor 2 torque | 450 Nm (331.9 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor 2 model/code | CAM250PT1 |
| Electric motor 2 max revolutions | 14500 rpm |
| Electric motor 2 location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| System power | 551 Hp |
| System torque | 750 Nm (553.17 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 2630 kg (5798.16 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 3180 kg (7010.7 lbs) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs) |
| Length | 5209 mm (205.08 in) |
| Width | 2010 mm (79.13 in) |
| Height | 1713 mm (67.44 in) |
| Wheelbase | 3110 mm (122.44 in) |
| Front track | 1708 mm (67.24 in) |
| Rear track | 1709 mm (67.28 in) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.345 |
| Approach angle | 21.3° |
| Departure angle | 21.4° |
| 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, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/45 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 9J x 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The E-HS9 99 kWh variant utilizes a dual-motor, all-wheel drive (AWD) powertrain. The front motor, designated CAM220PT2, produces 218 horsepower, while the rear motor, CAM250PT1, generates 333 horsepower. Combined, these motors deliver a system output of 551 horsepower and 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque. Both motors are permanent magnet synchronous motors, known for their efficiency and power density. The 99 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, positioned under the vehicle floor, provides a WLTP-rated range of 465 kilometers (288.94 miles). The battery operates at 410 volts. The single-speed automatic transmission is a standard feature for electric vehicles, providing seamless power delivery. The battery pack’s thermal management system is crucial for maintaining optimal operating temperatures and extending battery life, employing liquid cooling technology.
Driving Characteristics
The E-HS9 99 kWh AWD delivers brisk acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 4.7 seconds. The dual-motor setup provides instant torque, resulting in responsive performance. The all-wheel drive system enhances traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Compared to potential lower-range E-HS9 variants, this 551 hp version offers significantly more power and quicker acceleration. While the single-speed transmission simplifies the driving experience, it lacks the gear ratios found in traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, potentially impacting efficiency at sustained high speeds. The vehicle’s substantial weight (2630 kg / 5798.16 lbs) is noticeable, but the low center of gravity due to the underfloor battery pack contributes to stable handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 6-seat configuration of this E-HS9 variant emphasizes passenger comfort and space. Standard features typically include premium leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a large touchscreen infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, and a high-end audio system. Optional extras could include upgraded interior trim materials, rear-seat entertainment systems, and advanced parking assistance features. The E-HS9 aims to provide a luxurious experience, competing with established luxury brands in terms of features and build quality.
Chassis & Braking
The E-HS9 features a double wishbone suspension setup at the front and an independent trapezoidal lever suspension at the rear, both incorporating a transverse stabilizer bar to minimize body roll. Ventilated disc brakes are used 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 long wheelbase (3110 mm / 122.44 in) contributes to a comfortable ride quality.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hongqi E-HS9 has been generally well-received in the Chinese market, where it has gained traction as a domestically produced luxury electric SUV. Critics have praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and advanced technology. However, some reviews have noted the vehicle’s substantial weight and the relatively limited range compared to some competitors. Compared to other trims in the E-HS9 lineup, the 99 kWh AWD variant offers the best performance and range, justifying its higher price point. It competes with vehicles like the Tesla Model X, BMW iX, and Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, offering a unique blend of Chinese design and technology.
Legacy
The Hongqi E-HS9 represents a significant step forward for the brand, demonstrating its commitment to electric vehicle technology and its ambition to compete in the global luxury car market. The long-term reliability of the powertrain remains to be fully assessed, but the use of established lithium-ion battery technology and robust electric motors suggests a reasonable level of durability. On the used car market, the E-HS9 is likely to hold its value reasonably well, particularly among buyers seeking a spacious, well-equipped, and technologically advanced electric SUV. The E-HS9’s success will play a crucial role in shaping Hongqi’s future as a leading electric vehicle manufacturer.
