Rolls-Royce of China: What are the key features of Xi's favourite car, which Modi will use in China

BEIJING: The Chinese government has prepared a luxury car, Hongqi L5, for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trip to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit. The Chinese-made Hongqi is President Xi Jinping's favourite vehicle. "Hongqi" literally means "Red Flag" in Mandarin. Xi uses this model of car during his foreign visits. The Hongqi L5 model is the official vehicle provided by China to foreign leaders visiting the country. Xi used this car during his visit to Mahabalipuram in 2019.

Hongqi's proud history begins in 1958 when the brand was first launched exclusively for top members of the Communist Party of China by the state-owned First Automotive Works (FAW).

The Hongqi L5's key features include a V8 engine (older models had V12s), a focus on luxury and safety, with high-strength steel bodies and advanced safety features. Luxury materials like Nappa leather and real jade, a triple-screen dashboard, and ambient lighting define its interior. The exterior features a classic design with unique round headlights and a prominent chrome grill. Recent models, such as the Hongqi Guoli (a generation of the L5), have introduced Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) and integrated connectivity options.