Hongqi, a luxury Chinese brand, is preparing to launch its first off-road electric SUV. The off-roader will be equipped with four electric motors and a rugged new design. Here’s our first look at it in action.
Hongqi is launching its first off-road electric SUV in 2026
Off-roading is fun, but it’s way better in an EV. The instant torque makes climbing hills and other obstacles a breeze, while the low center of gravity gives you more control in mud, sand, snow, loose rock, and other rough terrain.
Meanwhile, some higher-end off-road EVs, such as the Rivian R1S and R1T, are equipped with four independent motors, unlocking precise power distribution to each wheel.
Hongqi, a premium brand owned by FAW Group, is one of China’s oldest passenger car marques and is often used by government officials.
Now, the brand is entering new territory with its first luxury off-road electric SUV, set to launch in 2026. Ahead of its official debut, a camouflage prototype was spotted testing during winter testing, giving us our first look at the upcoming EV.
紅旗の新モデルと思われる車両がスパイショットされました。 pic.twitter.com/9TzFJKdXlL
— NEWCAR (@NEWCARinjapan) February 18, 2026
Although it’s covered, the images from NEWCARinjapan clearly show it retains the boxy, Jeep-like design that has been a signature of off-road vehicles since they were first introduced.
The prototype appears nearly identical to the off-road SUV Hongqi unveiled at last year’s Shanghai Auto Show, featuring a massive, blocky front grille, roof rails, and a roof-mounted LiDAR.
Hongqi previously said the off-road SUV will be equipped with four electric motors, a body-on-frame chassis, and three differentials. The company claims the big body SUV will be able to accelerate from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4 seconds.
While Hongqi prepares to launch its electric off-roader, several are already available in China. According to CarNewsChina, the Tank 300 was the top-selling off-road SUV in China last month, followed by the Beijing BJ40.
What about in the US? As mentioned above, Rivian calls the R1S and R1T “Adventure Vehicles” for a reason, with its Quad-Motor delivering a monstrous 1,025 combined horsepower and 1,198 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0 to 60 mph time in less than 2.5 seconds.
The GMC Hummer EV SUV with three electric motors (3X) produces up to 1,000 horsepower and 11,500 lb-ft of torque, good for a 0 to 60 mph time in about 3 seconds.
Several other “off-road” electric SUVs are available, or will be soon, including the Toyota bZ Woodland, Jeep Recon EV, and Hyundai IONIQ 5 XRT.
Source: Autohome, CarNewsChina
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
Comments