THE HiPhi 1, A TESLA MODEL X RIVAL?
A Chinese company has just revealed their plans for manafacturing an electric SUV set to be released soon. Is this a rival for the Tesla Model X?
Who makes the HiPhi 1?
The HiPhi 1 is made by a Chinese company called Human Horizons which is led by the former boss of Land Rovers Special Vehicles Division. The SUV is set to be on sale exclusively in China by 2021. The company describes itself as a technology company that focuses on “smart vehicles, smart transport and smart cities”. Human Horizons plans to set the Chinese EV market alight as they aim to develop a range of machines that will range from autonomous systems to vehicle-to-everything communication.
What makes it stand out from its rivals?
The car features 562 sensors to offer ‘higher-level autonomy’ using V2X communication systems. It will also monitor the interior using facial recognition cameras and even smell sensors to detect unwanted odours.The Model X being its closest rival, Human Horizons have to really push the boat out if they are going to beat the American manufacturer. The HiPhi 1 features nine power-operated doors, flaps and stowage compartments, including gullwing-opening rear doors, and a handleless entry system that uses a facial recognition system matched to a smartphone.
The interior features three rows of two seats, all of which are power-operated and can be switched into numerous configurations which cater to the Chinese market. The HiPhi 1 offers a luxury electric SUV feel which is said to be as good as or if not, better than the quality of a Model X. The dashboard is largely formed of display screens, with a digital instrument pack, portrait-orientated touchscreen in the middle of the dashboard and another in front of the passenger for playing media. It also features a camera-based rear-view system, although this isn’t currently legal in China.
When can we see the HiPhi outside of China?
While there are no plans to sell the HiPhi 1 outside China in the short term, the firm has global ambitions in the longer term. Pricing is yet to be set, but the HiPhi 1 is likely to be at the higher end of the Chinese EV market. Deliveries are due to being in 2021. Production will take place in a plant – currently being refitted – that was formerly used by Kia’s Chinese joint venture partner. But this raises the question, would you rather have a Model X or a HiPhi 1?
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Comments (10)
Has to exist before it can compete with Tesla.
I find it funny that many car makers say that tomorrow, they will beat the Tesla of today without considering what the Tesla of tomorrow might be capable of.
At least it's not as ugly as a Tesla
I understand Tesla is opening manufacturing facilities in China too... this'll be interesting.
Another chinese car wanting to compete with tesla, how original china. I give it 2 months before it disappears
Looks like someone copied the Mitsubishi Expander's design lmao