Hongqi Guoya 

It’s now time to study the latest launches on the Chinese market, based on wholesales. This month we have no less than 17 new models hitting Chinese roads, all bar one being Chinese. To fully understand the scope of the Chinese market, make sure you consult our Exclusive Guide to all 189 active Chinese Brands.

1. Luxeed R7 (11,086 sales)

Luxeed is a premium EV brand by Chery and Huawei under the Huawei’s Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance (HIMA). The R7 is the second model from the brand after the S7 sedan. It is a 4.96m long SUV coupe and although it competes with the Tesla Model Y price-wise, it is in fact 21cm longer. The R7 has the lowest drag for a mass-produced SUV, with a Cd of 0.219. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds.

Its range goes up to an impressive 802 km and features four versions, including an all-wheel-drive Ultra model. The SUV coupe boasts advanced technology like Huawei’s Qiankun ADS 3.0 and lidar systems, an 800V platform for rapid charging, and intelligent driving capabilities. Its luxurious interior includes zero-gravity seats, a 15.6-inch screen with Huawei Sound, a temperature-controlled fridge and electrically adjustable second-row seats. There are also rear entertainment screens for some versions. A unique feature is the “knock-knock” opening frunk which will open if you knock the hood twice. 

The R7 is priced from 259,800 to 339,800 yuan (33,900-44,400€ or US$35,700-46,700) and competes with the likes of the AvatR 07 (219,900-289,900 yuan), Zeekr 7X (229,900-269,900 yuan) and Tesla Model Y (249,900 to 354,900). It received 30,000 firm orders over the first 30 days and confirms it with an outstanding first month volume, already well above 10,000 units. Even if it drops over the next few months this will still be considered a success.

Bar for success: 8,000 monthly sales

2. Fang Cheng Bao Bao 8 (2,463 sales)

Fang Cheng Bao is an off-road NEV brand by BYD, launched last year. The Bao 8 is the brand’s second model after the smaller Bao 5. With a rugged design, it features a flexible suspension system enabling up to 310 mm ground clearance, off-road driving modes, and a 737 hp hybrid powertrain offering 1200 km range. The Bao 8 features the now mandatory retractable door handles. 

Inside, it includes three large screens: a 12.3-inch LCD instrument panel, a 17.3-inch driver’s display, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen for the front passenger, plus a 50-inch augmented reality head-up display. It also boasts Huawei phone integration, 14 airbags, and six- or seven-seat layouts for added comfort. The 36.8-kWh battery enables 100 km electric range, while acceleration hits 0–100 km/h in 4.8 seconds.

The Bao 8 has plans to be sold internationally as BYD aims to sell Fang Cheng Bao models under the Denza brand in Europe. It is priced from 379,800 to 407,800 yuan (49,600-53,300€ or US$52,100-56,000) vs. 239,800 to 302,800 yuan for the Bao 5. It competes and undercuts such vehicles as the Tank 700 (428,000 to 700,000 yuan) and Aito M9 (469,800 to 569,800 yuan). The Bao 5 has steadily improved its monthly sales in the year since it launched, to reach a record 6,058 sales this November. Targets for the Bao 8 should be slightly lower.

Bar for success: 5,000 monthly sales

3. Mazda EZ-6 (2,445 sales)

For the only foreign model start of the month, Mazda has launched the EZ-6, a mid-size sedan available in fully electric (BEV) and range-extended (EREV) versions. Built on Changan’s EPA hybrid platform, the BEV model offers up to 600 km range, while the EREV version delivers a total range of 1,301 km. It features a sleek fastback design, hidden door handles and advanced interiors, including a 14.6-inch infotainment display, augmented reality heads-up display, and Snapdragon-powered systems.

The EZ-6’s EV version uses a 190 kW motor with two battery options for fast charging. The EREV combines a 1.5L engine with a 160 kW motor and offers impressive efficiency. Mazda’s suite of L2.5 driver assistance systems, adaptive cruise control, and remote parking enhances the driving experience. Mazda aims to grow its electric lineup, announcing a new NEV model for 2025. The EZ-6 delivers a balance of affordability, performance, and cutting-edge technology, targeting both urban and long-distance drivers. Indeed it is priced from a very competitive 139,800 to 179,800 yuan (18,300-23,500€ or US$19,200-24,700) and will compete with such models as the Deepal SL03 (119,900-209,900 yuan), Deepal L07 (151,900-173,900 yuan), BYD Han (165,800-259,900 yuan) and Nevo A07 (135,900-159,900 yuan).

4. 212 T01 (1,425 sales)

BAW launched the 212 brand last June, celebrating the original and legendary 60 year-old BJ212 off roader. The T01 is the brand’s first outing, offering a modernised version of the icon. It retains classic off-road elements like a boxy design, round taillights, and robust off-road capabilities, including a 2.0T turbo engine with 248 hp, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and advanced four-wheel drive features. The T01 is 4.75m long with a 2.64m wheelbase. It offers a 43° approach angle, 39° departure angle, 2500 kg towing capacity, and ice/snow driving modes.

Inside, it combines modern tech like a floating screen with classic functional controls. The T01 is priced from 139,900 to 188,800 yuan (18,300-24,700€ or US$19,200-25,900) and competes with the likes of the Tank 300 (199,800-330,000 yuan), Beijing BJ40 (139,800-269,900 yuan), Jetour Traveler (139,900-239,900 yuan) and ultimately the Jeep Wrangler (499,900-579,900 yuan).

5. Stelato S9 (1,058 sales)

Stelato (starry sky or Huazhang in Chinese) is a brand born with the partnership of Huawei and BAIC BJEV, the New Energy arm of BAIC under the Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance (HIMA). It was launched in December 2023 and is dedicated to high end new energy vehicles. The Stelato S9 is a luxury electric sedan designed to compete with premium models like the Mercedes-Benz EQS. But it offers similar levels of luxury for a fraction of the price: the S9 is available from 399,800 to 449,800 yuan (52,200-58,700€ or US$54,900-61,800) vs. 651,000 to 1,149,000 yuan heavily discounted prices for the EQS.

The S9 features cutting-edge 800V fast-charging technology and offers two configurations: a single-motor version with an 816 km range and a dual-motor variant with 721 km range capable of 3.9-second acceleration from 0–100 km/h. It is designed with aerodynamic efficiency, achieving a drag coefficient of 0.193 Cd, and boasts a premium interior with Nappa leather seats, a 15.6-inch touchscreen, and Huawei’s ADS 3.0 advanced driving system. The cabin also integrates smart connectivity for a seamless driving experience. With its focus on luxury, performance, and smart technologies, the Stelato S9 positions itself as a strong EV contender in China’s high-end market, emphasising Huawei’s innovative capabilities in the automotive space.

Bar for success: 2,500 monthly sales

6. Geely Galaxy Starship 7 (800 sales)

Geely has launched the Galaxy Starship 7 PHEV, an affordable plug-in hybrid SUV starting at 99,800 yuan. It features two battery options offering 55 km and 120 km pure electric range, with a combined range of up to 1,420 km. Powered by a 1.5L engine and an electric motor, it achieves a fuel consumption of 3.75L/100 km and accelerates 0–100 km/h in 7.5 seconds.

The SUV is built on Geely’s GEA platform and includes advanced features like Level 2 driver assistance, a luxurious interior with massaging seats, a 13.8-inch head up display, a 10.2-inch full LCD instrument panel, and a 14.6-inch central control screen. The cockpit is powered by the Flyme Auto smart cockpit system. Its spacious design offers up to 2065L trunk space when the rear seats are folded down.

As mentioned above, the Starship 7 is priced very competitively from 99,800 to 132,800 yuan (13,000-17,300€ or US$13,700-18,200). As such, it competes with the likes of the BYD Song Pro (109,800-142,800 yuan). The Galaxy lineup as been met with tremendous success so far, with the E5 reaching almost 19,000 sales in November. There is no reason why the Starship 7 shouldn’t be successful also. 

Bar for success: 6,000 monthly sales

7. MG ES5 (589 sales)

MG has achieved success in export markets but has been in trouble at home in China for a while now, with sales down a further -26,3% to 74,140 over the first 11 months of the year. The manufacturer hopes this ES5, a compact electric SUV, will help buck the negative trend. It is available in two versions, offering 425 km and 525 km ranges, powered by a 125-kW electric motorcapable of 0–100 km/h acceleration in under 8 seconds. The ES5 is built on MG’s dedicated EV platform for efficiency and performance.

Inside, the ES5 features a 10.25-inch LCD instrument cluster, a 15.6-inch central screen, modern design elements, and improved handling due to a lower centre of gravity. The SUV combines practicality and advanced technology to cater to urban drivers. MG is also offering significant incentives, including a 10,000-yuan discount plus a 10,000 yuan trade-in subsidy, to make the ES5 more competitive in China’s surging EV market. The ES5 is priced from 103,900 to 133,900 yuan (13,600-17,500€ or US$14,300-18,400) and competes with the likes of the Deepal S05 (119,900-149,900 yuan), BYD Yuan Plus (119,800-147,800 yuan) and Geely Galaxy E5 (109,800-145,800 yuan).

8. Qiyuan/Nevo E07 (388 sales)

Qiyuan is owned by Changan and a brand dedicated to mid-level new energy vehicles. It was unveiled at the Chengdu Auto Show in August 2023. The English name is Nevo. The E07 is an electric SUV featured in both BEV and EREV versions. The BEV variant is available in single rear electric motor (338 hp) or adding a 252 hp front electric motor for the dual-motor version. Cruising range goes up to 1000 km. The EREV variant is also presented as single and dual motor. Both have a 141 hp 1.5T range extender coupled with a 310hp electric motor, it the dual motor version adding a 176 hp front electric motor.

The main attraction of the E07 is its futuristic design and the fact can indeed transform from SUV to pickup truck thanks to an electric and retractable top cover. The E07’s interior is minimalistic and opts to go without an instrument panel. It features in-vehicle satellite communication, according to Changan being the world’s first car to do so. It is priced from 199,900 to 319,900 yuan (26,100-41,800€ or US$27,400-43,900). This means its competitors will include the Exeed Exlantix ET (189,800-319,800 yuan), AvatR 07 (219,900-289,900 yuan) and Deepal G318 (175,900-318,000 yuan).

9. Hongqi Tiangong 08 (110 sales)

Hongqi has unveiled the Tiangong 08, a luxury all-electric SUV, built on its Tiangong pure electric platform and Jiuzhang intelligent platform. Tiangong is a new pure electric platform that works with sedans, SUVs and MPVs. It features Hongqi’s first low-temperature battery pack and fast charging that can reach 80% in just 5 minutes. The SUV offers both RWD and AWD options, with up to 730 km range for RWD and 680 km for AWD using a 111 kWh ternary lithium battery. A battery-swap version will also be available.

Inside, the Tiangong 08 features a dual-screen cockpit, augmented reality head up display, Dolby Atmos audio, and smart tech for an enhanced driving experience. It supports advanced driving systems like urban NOA (Navigate on Autopilot) and smart parking. The Tiangong 08 began pre-sales at the Guangzhou Auto Show in October and has now hit Chinese dealerships. It is priced at 239,800 yuan (31,300€ or US32,900). Note it will be sold overseas as the Hongqi EHS7 and pre-sales in Europe have started for a significantly dearer 53,999€. The Tiangong 08’s competitors include the Zeekr 7X (229,900-269,900 yuan) and Luxeed R7 (259,800-339,800 yuan).

10. Hongqi Guoya (10 sales)

After debuting at the Beijing Auto Show in April, the Hongqi Guoya (国雅, meaning national elegance) has now entered the wholesales charts. Note the production version of the Hongqi Guoya was shown at the Paris Motor Show on October 14. The Guoya is a luxury sedan part of Hongqi’s “Golden Sunflower” ultra luxury lineup. It offers both 3.0T and 4.0T plug-in hybrid powertrains. The sedan stands at 5.3 meters long, featuring a sleek design with advanced DLP headlights and a rear inspired by palace lanterns. A design note is that there is a retractable winged emblem at the front of the bonnet like on a Rolls Royce.

Inside, the Guoya offers a high-tech cockpit, with a full LCD instrument panel and a large suspended screen. Premium touches include wood veneers, soft leather, and metallic accents. The 4-seat configuration boasts independent back seats with massaging features and multi-mode controls. The Guoya is priced from 1,400,000 to 1,860,000 yuan (183,000-243,000€ or US$192,200-255,400) and competes with the likes of the Mercedes S-Class (962,600-2,042,600 yuan), Mercedes Maybach S-Class (1,468,000-3,758,000 yuan) and Bentley Continental Flying Spur (2,793,000-3,774,000 yuan). This is an ultra-luxury niche model so sales volumes will remain limited.

Bar for success: 100 monthly sales

Other newcomers include the SWM G01F (137 sales), JAC X8 E Family (77 sales), SWM X3 (12 sales), Livan 8 (101 sales), Link Tour M8 (56 sales) and E-M8 (93 sales) and Maxus Dajia Hydrogen (2 sales).