AEC to import Hongqi in Germany

AEC Automotive Systems BV will serve as the official importer for Hongqi in Germany, starting with the HS3 and HS5 SUVs and a phased retail rollout. The launch sets up Hongqi’s entry into a major European market with additional electrified models planned to follow.

Why it matters: - AEC is giving Hongqi a formal path into Germany, one of Europe’s most competitive premium-car markets. - The launch gives Hongqi an entry point for future battery-electric and plug-in hybrid models in the country. - A phased rollout is meant to build a long-term sales, service and aftersales base rather than a fast, one-shot launch.

What happened: - AEC Automotive Systems BV has been appointed as the official importer for Hongqi in Germany. - The first German-market models will be the Hongqi HS3 and Hongqi HS5 SUVs. - AEC will introduce the brand through an initial network of selected retail and service partners. - The German launch plan was announced from Munich on Oct. 28, 2026.

The details: - The Hongqi HS3 and HS5 are both all-wheel-drive SUVs. - The HS3 is the compact model in the pair, while the HS5 is the larger SUV. - Additional Hongqi models, including battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, are planned to follow. - Preparatory work is already under way, including homologation, final German-market specification confirmation and launch preparation. - Pricing, order timing, delivery timing and first dealer locations will be announced after approvals and launch preparation are complete. - AEC plans to roll out the initial dealer network in phases. - Munich, Frankfurt, Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart and Düsseldorf are being evaluated for selected dealer partners. - A dedicated German website, Hongqi Germany, already provides information about the HS3 and HS5. - Hongqi Germany LinkedIn and Instagram channels will carry brand, product and launch updates. - Final equipment details and technical specifications for the German market will be published later. - Official fuel and emissions figures for the Hongqi HS3 AWD are 8.6 l/100 km combined fuel consumption, 235 g/km combined CO₂ emissions and CO₂ emissions class G. - Official fuel and emissions figures for the Hongqi HS5 AWD are 11.0 l/100 km combined fuel consumption, 245 g/km combined CO₂ emissions and CO₂ emissions class G.

Between the lines: - The partnership pairs Hongqi’s premium branding with AEC’s experience in market entry, homologation, logistics and dealer network development. - Andrew Pilsworth, founder and CEO of AEC, said the goal is to turn Hongqi’s identity into a credible, well-supported market presence. - Gu Siwei, general manager of FAW Europe, said Germany is an important market and that a local partner is essential for a careful, long-term entry. - The launch strategy signals a cautious approach, with sales details held back until regulatory and retail preparations are finished.

What's next: - Hongqi and AEC will release further vehicle and market-launch details in stages. - Dealer partner decisions will continue as the network rollout progresses. - The first German-market sales timeline will become clearer once approvals are complete. - More electrified Hongqi models are expected to be added after the HS3 and HS5 introduction.

The bottom line: - Hongqi is entering Germany through a staged launch built around two SUVs, a selected dealer network and later electrified models.