HiPhi Y: the Chinese brand's new weapon of seduction
It is crucial for HiPhi that the HiPhi Y is convincing enough to compete with more established competitors. But this is no easy task. In the USA, the number of 100% electric cars continues to grow, a trend that is even more confirmed in China, where 155 new electric and hybrid vehicles are planned for the year 2023. HiPhi must rise to the challenge if it is to win its share of the market and remain competitive.
This electric sedan, whose name has yet to be confirmed, will be presented at the Shanghai Motor Show 2023, from April 18 to 27. The brand's objective is to introduce new models aimed at a broader customer base and a younger target. "However, these will not be low-cost models, and there are no plans to produce millions and millions of them.stresses Mark Stanton, HiPhi's Technical Director and former head of Jaguar's Special Vehicle Division.
" The HiPhi Y, however, will be smaller and more affordable than the X and Z", he continues.he continued. Drawing on his own experience at Jaguar-Land Rover, Stanton drew parallels with the Range Rover Evoque. Smaller than the rest of the range, but no less rich in technology and equipment. We should therefore find the same thing on the HiPhi Y, which, at least in terms of dimensions, should fit into 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 motors also remain a mystery, but there could be a downgrade of the Z with 120 kWh batteries for a range of 705 kmcalculated according to the more generous Chinese homologation cycles.
HiPhi Y vs Tesla Model 3: a technical comparison
How does this car compare with 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 released, so it's difficult to say with any certainty what its range will be. However, according to rumors, the car could be equipped with 120 kWh batteries, offering a range of 650 km according to WLTP homologation cycles. By comparison, the Tesla Model 3 has a maximum range of 602 km according to USEPA standards.
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. For the HiPhi Y, we'll have to wait for its release to find out more about its performance.
Connectivity
Connectivity is an important element for electric cars, which are often equipped with numerous smart and connected features. The HiPhi Y is expected to offer 5G connectivity, like its larger siblings the HiPhi X and HiPhi Z. For its part, the Tesla Model 3 is equipped with an advanced navigation and infotainment system, with regular updates adding new features.
Price
Finally, an important element to consider is the price. The Tesla Model 3 is available from €44,990 in France, with higher-end versions going for 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 keep an eye on
HiPhi's arrival on the European market is likely to shake up the competition. If the brand succeeds in offering affordable electric models with performance on a par with its rivals, it could well find its place in this fast-growing market.
What's more, the Chinese brand has the advantage of cutting-edge connectivity and autonomous driving technology. Existing HiPhi models feature 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 automaker 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 state-of-the-art connectivity. With the arrival of the HiPhi Y, the Chinese brand is embarking on an ambitious new challenge, hoping to capture a share of the European electric vehicle market.
Also read → China's electric car, ready to conquer Europe
Lease an electric car
Would you like to lease an electric car? Beev offers you 100% electric cars at negotiated prices, as well as recharging solutions.
