A decade ago, it seemed like the number of Chinese car brands was reducing. However, the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) changed the game. Many car producers in China decided to enter the electric market, leading to a new wave of competition. HiPhi, a car brand from Shanghai-based technology startup Human Horizons, falls into this category. Founded in 2017, HiPhi has made ambitious and rapid progress in the industry.
HiPhi’s first car, the HiPhi X, started deliveries in China in June 2021. The car we are testing today was delivered to the first Chinese customers in February 2023 and is about to launch in Europe. HiPhi also unveiled a third model, called the Y, at the Shanghai Auto Show in April. The brand plans to start sales in Europe and the Middle East by the end of the year. While there are currently no plans to enter the US market, HiPhi has expressed its intention to expand there in the future.
One of HiPhi’s flagship models is the HiPhi Z, a sporty-looking electric GT. It shares the same platform and many attributes with the HiPhi X. The Z stands out with its sleek lines and large size, measuring 5,036 mm long and 2,018 mm wide. It features four-wheel drive and four-wheel steering, making it a powerful and agile vehicle.
The HiPhi Z is positioned as a premium brand, starting at €105,000 ($114,652). There are two versions available: a five-seater and a four-seater. HiPhi considers the Z and X as “twin halo cars,” with the X being equally high-end and even offering an optional disappearing champagne caddy. According to HiPhi, the X has achieved impressive sales in China’s premium EV market, outperforming competitors like the Porsche Taycan. However, independent figures that corroborate these claims are not readily available.
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Several factors contribute to HiPhi’s success. Firstly, there is the “guochao” phenomenon in China, where the population has started favoring Chinese products. In the auto industry, this translates into a preference for tech-laden models that appeal to the new generation of buyers. With EVs accounting for more than a quarter of the Chinese market, HiPhi is well-positioned to cater to this growing demand. Chinese auto producers have been able to develop EVs that better suit the preferences of Chinese consumers compared to foreign competitors, with the exception of Tesla.
The HiPhi Z aims to make a significant impact in the European market. It stands out not only for its performance but also for its cutting-edge technology. The car features a centrally mounted “robotic” moving screen-cum-digital assistant that responds when spoken to. This unique feature adds to the overall futuristic appeal of the vehicle.
Despite its larger size and weight, the HiPhi Z performs admirably. It offers impressive acceleration, reaching 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 3.8 seconds, which is only 0.1 seconds slower than the Porsche Taycan GTS. The four-wheel steering adds an extra level of agility, making it a formidable competitor.
In conclusion, HiPhi is a Chinese car brand that has rapidly gained recognition in the industry. With a range of electric models and a focus on premium design and technology, HiPhi is poised to make its mark in the global market. The HiPhi Z, in particular, offers an impressive combination of performance, size, and advanced features. As EVs continue to gain popularity, HiPhi’s innovative approach and commitment to customer satisfaction set it apart from its competitors.
