FAW to launch four own-brand Hongqi models in 2012

Shanghai, June 18 (Gasgoo.com) At the 2010 Beijing Auto Show in April, Xu Jianyi, general manager of China FAW Group Corporation, announced FAW's new brand strategy and revealed that FAW is set to position the time-honored "Red Flag" (Hongqi) brand as a high-end brand. Meanwhile, he said the company will launch four own-brand Hongqi models in 2012.

The four new Hongqi models will be using the H platform independently developed by FAW's engineers, and will be designated as the super-luxury cars. In addition to the platform, the company's engineers will also develop the transmissions and engines to equip the four models, recent sources said.

Reportedly, the first Hongqi model will carry a self-developed four-cylinder turbocharged engine with direct injection and two V6 engines, which will match a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission made by FAW's engineers.

Moreover, the first Hongqi model will be positioned above the Audi A6 model and will mainly target at government purchases. The price of it is expected to be no less than 400,000 yuan ($58,500).