Shanghai (ZXZC)- Hongqi, the premium car marque of FAW Group, saw its sales exceed 70,000 units in the first quarter of 2021, representing a year-on-year hike of 180%, according to a posting on FAW's WeChat account.

The automaker has not released the sale volume for March. However, it can be surmised that about 24,500 Hongqi-branded vehicles were sold last month based on the sales in Jan. (32,526 units) and Feb. (13,009 units).

Hongqi HS5; photo credit: Hongqi

The Chinese indigenous premium car brand succeeded in achieving its sales target of 200,000 units last year despite the overall downturn in China's auto market. In January 2021, Hongqi's monthly sales shot up 158% from a year ago to 32,526 units, for the first time topping 30,000 units.

Hongqi's sales hike significantly linked to its improvement in product matrix. Hitting the market in May 2020, the HS5 SUV has become a main sales contributor to Hongqi with its monthly sales standing at around 10,000 units.

Hongqi H9; photo credit: Hongqi

The Hongqi H9 full-sized sedan, which went on sale in last August, caught the eye of many consumers as well. Its cumulative sales surpassed 130,000 units last year.

The brand continues to strengthen its offensive into new energy vehicle (NEV) market. The E-HS9 hit the market in Dec. 2020 and is highly recognized by consumers with its classy exterior, futuristic interior and decent range.

Hongqi will strive to complete a sales volume of 400,000 units in 2021. Besides, it plans to roll out this year such new products as the E-QM5 all-electric sedan and the mid-cycle refresh for the Hongqi HS5.