Hongqi surprise-reveals a super-EV prototype

The Chinese premium automaker’s Shanghai show lineup had a vehicle that went completely unannounced – a full-size, all-electric SUV concept with four motors and a 4-second sprint time.

Dubbed the Hongqi Off-road, the vehicle sports a boxy silhouette with a nearly upright windshield and rally wheels shod in mud tires. The fenders have massive plastic flares installed, and the roof carries a light bar alongside a practical expedition rack. Steel running boards, a roof access ladder and a luggage box round off the travel-friendly mods.

The Hongqi Off-road will be the company’s first vehicle ever to combine everyday practicality with serious off-road capabilities. There has been no mention of trims, availability dates or pricing. Right now, the automaker is running a poll on its website to choose the best-fitting name for the SUV. A newer revision of it will debut under the winning name at a later auto show.