Beijing/New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently on a visit to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, has been accorded a special gesture by the Chinese government. During his stay, he has been provided with a Hongqi limousine — a luxury vehicle that symbolizes China’s pride in its domestic automobile industry and is the preferred car of Chinese President Xi Jinping.
The Hongqi, meaning “Red Flag” in Mandarin, is far more than just a luxury car. It represents national prestige, political power, and the spirit of “Made in China.” Xi himself has often used the Hongqi L5 model during state visits abroad, including his trip to India in 2019 for the Mahabalipuram Summit, where the car became a point of curiosity.
A Vehicle Steeped in History
Hongqi’s storied journey dates back to 1958, when the state-owned First Automotive Works (FAW) launched the marque as the official vehicle brand for Communist Party of China (CPC) elites. For decades, Hongqi served a role similar to what Rolls-Royce or Cadillac did in the West — the car of choice for heads of state, party leaders, and foreign dignitaries.
During the Mao Zedong era, Hongqi cars were hand-built, produced in limited numbers, and reserved almost exclusively for political activities and ceremonies. After briefly losing prominence in the 1980s as foreign luxury cars entered the Chinese market, Hongqi reemerged in the 2000s as part of Beijing’s push to revive national pride through cutting-edge domestic products.
Interesting Facts About the Hongqi Car
- Symbol of Power: The name Hongqi (Red Flag) symbolizes the CPC’s red flag, underscoring its strong association with the Party and national identity.
- The L5 Model: The flagship Hongqi L5 is considered among the most expensive Chinese-made cars, costing around $800,000. It weighs nearly 3.1 tonnes and measures over 5.5 meters in length, making it an imposing presence at any state event.
- Unique Design: The car combines retro styling reminiscent of classic Chinese limousines with ultra-modern luxury interiors. Its design pays homage to the original 1960s Hongqi CA770 limousine.
- Exclusivity: Ordinary citizens rarely get to own the L5. Most are custom-made for government use, with very limited availability for private buyers.
- Performance & Safety: The vehicle is powered by a V12 engine and is specially armored to provide high levels of security for top leaders. Its interiors are lined with luxurious leather, handcrafted wood, and advanced communication systems befitting a state leader.
A Diplomatic Gesture
By offering the Hongqi to Prime Minister Modi, China has extended not just a courtesy, but also a symbolic gesture of respect. In diplomatic protocol, the choice of vehicle often carries hidden messages of stature, honor, and political goodwill—placing a visiting dignitary in the same league as China’s own leadership.
As Modi attends key SCO engagements, his travel in a car synonymous with Chinese state prestige underlines the careful choreography of international diplomacy. The Hongqi’s presence in these movements serves as a reminder of how automobiles, too, can embody history, politics, and national aspirations.
India’s Official PM Cars vs. China’s Hongqi
Back home, Indian PM is protected by some of the world’s most secure vehicles.
- India’s Current Choice: Traditionally, the Prime Minister of India has used a Mercedes-Maybach S650 Guard, one of the most secure armored cars globally. Featuring VR10 level protection, it can withstand rifle fire, powerful explosives, and even chemical attacks.
- Recent Addition: In 2021, the Indian SPG (Special Protection Group) also inducted Range Rover Sentinel SUVs into Modi’s convoy, chosen for their blend of armor, off-road capability, and discreet appearance.
Other Leaders Who Were Given Hongqi
US President Richard Nixon: During his historic visit to China in the 1970s, Hongqi vehicles were used to transport Nixon and his delegation, marking the car’s significance in Sino-American diplomacy.
French President François Hollande: The Hongqi L5 served as the official state vehicle for Hollande during his 2013 state visit to China, with symbolism hearkening back to the earliest diplomatic uses of Hongqi for French presidents in the 1960s.
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