Shanghai (ZXZC)-The all-new Hongqi D-class sedan coded N501 was spied undisguised for the first time recently. As a D-class sedan under Hongqi L series, the new model is positioned below the Hongqi L5, and is likely to be named the Hongqi L3.

In terms of the exterior, the new model retains Hongqi's iconic design language, featuring an intake grille with a straight waterfall shape, decent and elegant-looking oblong and round headlamps, and eye-catching standing emblem on its engine hood. It looks decent with its waist lines stretched from headlamps to rear end. It deploys hollow-square-shaped LED taillights, boasting a high recognition for Hongqi's family. Moreover, the new model employs one exhaust pipe on each side and a 4.0T V8 turbocharged engine. 

On Oct. 28, FAW-Hongqi released an advertisement on their official WeChat account to recruit dealers in 308 cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Guangdong, aiming to expand its dealership network across China. In fact, early in this April, Hongqi held a signing ceremony for its first batch of 4S stores in Shanghai. During the ten-day recruitment, Hongqi received 48 applications from a variety of investors nationwide. After a strict selection, 21 dealers with rich operating experience of luxury vehicle brands were chosen to sell Hongqi models in 18 provinces, cities and municipalities across China.

According to Hongqi's 4S store recruitment plan, there are 7 levels for 4S stores ranging from A to C3. The 4S store with highest level needs to cover an area of 5,000 square meters and an investment of RMB 21.5 million, which meet the standard of a luxury vehicle brand. The 4S with lowest level still needs to cover an area of 1,200 square meters and a total investment of RMB 4.8 million.

On one hand, Hongqi is expanding its dealership network to absorb private consumers, and on the other hand, the position and design of its SUVs, EVs and connected cars began to face the private cart market. Hongqi is sparing no effort to enhance its brand awareness in the market, and is ambitious to set the first high-end independent vehicle brand in China.