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HiPhi Y: the Chinese brand's new weapon of seduction
It is crucial for HiPhi that HiPhi Y is convincing enough to compete with more established competitors. But this is no easy task. In the United States, the number of 100 % electric cars continues to grow, and this trend is even more pronounced in China, where 155 new electric and hybrid vehicles are planned for 2023. HiPhi must therefore rise to the challenge if it is to win its share of the market and remain competitive with the competition.
This electric saloon, whose name has yet to be confirmed, will be presented at the Shanghai Motor Show 2023, from 18 to 27 April. The brand's objective is to introduce new models aimed at a broader customer base and a younger target audience. "However, these will not be cheap models, and there are no plans to produce millions and millions of them".underlines Mark Stanton, HiPhi's technical director and former head of Jaguar's special vehicles division.
"However, the HiPhi Y will be smaller and more affordable than the X and Z".he continued. Drawing on his own experience within the Jaguar-Land Rover group, Stanton drew parallels with the Range Rover Evoque. Smaller than the rest of the range, but no less rich in terms of technology and equipment. We should therefore find the same thing on the HiPhi Y, which, at least in terms of size, should be in the same segment as that occupied by the Tesla Model 3, offering some of the features of its larger siblings, such as 5G connectivity. A powerful argument!
As for styling and key features, Mr Stanton did not release any further details. Batteries and engines also remain a mystery, but there could be a downgrade of the Z with 120 kWh batteries for autonomy of 705 kmcalculated according to the more generous Chinese homologation cycles.
HiPhi Y vs Tesla Model 3: a technical comparison
How is this car positioned in relation to the Tesla Model 3 ? Can the Hiphi Y hold its own against one of the American brand's most popular models?
Autonomy
The HiPhi Y has not yet been launched, so it is difficult to say with any certainty what its range will be. However, according to rumours, the car could be equipped with 120 kWh batteries, offering a range of 650 km according to WLTP certification cycles. By way of comparison, the Tesla Model 3 has a maximum range of 602 km according to USEPA.
Here's the test we carried out on the Tesla Model 3 to explore its features in greater depth:
Performance
Once again, it's difficult to say how the HiPhi Y will perform without more precise information. The Tesla Model 3, meanwhile, is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds in its Performance version, thanks to its powerful 377 kW electric motor. As for the HiPhi Y, we'll have to wait until its release to find out more about its performance.
Connectivity
Connectivity is an important element for electric cars, which are often equipped with many smart and connected features. The HiPhi Y is expected to offer 5G connectivity, like its larger siblings the HiPhi X and HiPhi Z. The Tesla Model 3, meanwhile, is equipped with an advanced navigation and infotainment system, with regular updates adding new features.
Prices
Finally, an important factor to consider is the price. The Tesla Model 3 is available from €44,990 in France, with more upmarket versions priced at over €59,000. For the HiPhi Y, the price is not yet known, but the Chinese brand has stated that it wants to offer cheaper models than the HiPhi X and HiPhi Z. It is therefore possible that the HiPhi Y will be positioned in a similar price range to the Tesla Model 3.
A company to watch very closely
HiPhi's arrival on the European market is likely to shake up the competition. If the brand manages to offer affordable electric models with performance on a par with its rivals, it could well find its place in this rapidly expanding market.
What's more, the Chinese brand has the advantage of cutting-edge technology in terms of connectivity and autonomous driving. Existing HiPhi models have a level 3 autonomous driving system, capable of taking complete control of the vehicle in certain situations, and even level 4 for certain prototypes. However, competition will be fierce, particularly from established players such as Volkswagen and Tesla.
The manufacturer must ensure that its vehicles meet European safety and emissions standards and regulations, which are often stricter than those in force in China. With innovative, high-performance and affordable models, the brand could well succeed in attracting a loyal customer base, especially if it manages to offer a high-quality driving experience and cutting-edge connectivity. With the arrival of the HiPhi Y, the Chinese brand is embarking on an ambitious new challenge in the hope of capturing a share of the European electric vehicle market.
Also read → The Chinese electric car, ready to conquer Europe
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