Hongqi’s new SUV flips the usual EV script. Most electric crossovers rely on a single or dual‑motor layout, but this model packs four independent electric motors. The source does not disclose individual kilowatt ratings, yet the total torque figure of 1,850 Nm tells us the vehicle can crawl up steep grades while still sprinting to 100 km/h in four seconds. That matters for Kathmandu’s winding mountain passes and the rugged trails of Pokhara.
The power is routed through three differential‑lock units – front, centre and rear – ensuring each wheel receives the right amount of torque when the terrain turns to sand, mud or loose stone. In practice, drivers will feel a confidence boost that most EVs simply cannot offer on loose surfaces.
Visually, the SUV carries Hongqi’s signature "Waterfall" grille and round LED headlamps, a nod to the brand’s heritage. The boxy silhouette maximises interior volume while the roof houses a Lidar sensor for advanced driver assistance. A roof‑rack, rear‑mounted spare tyre and reinforced under‑body protectors give it an authentic off‑road demeanor.
Key exterior traits
The interior will feature a digital cockpit, but details are still under wraps. Hongqi promises a premium feel with leather‑trimmed seats and a large central touchscreen that will control the vehicle’s four‑motor management system.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | Four independent electric motors, total torque 1,850 Nm |
| Acceleration | 0‑100 km/h in 4 seconds |
| Dimensions | Length > 5 m, wheel‑base 2,950 mm |
| Drivetrain | Triple differential‑lock (front, centre, rear) |
| Exterior cues | Waterfall grille, round LEDs, roof‑mounted Lidar, spare tyre |
The Chinese off‑road segment is already populated by Dongfeng Trax 300 and Beijing BJ 40. Those models rely on single‑motor setups and modest torque figures around 500‑800 Nm. Hongqi’s quad‑motor beast will therefore sit at the top of the performance ladder, potentially redefining what buyers expect from an electric SUV in Nepal.
If the brand can keep the price within a reasonable premium, it could capture adventure‑oriented buyers who currently import diesel‑powered rivals.
| Phase | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Testing | February 2026 | Snow‑field trials in Kathmandu completed |
| Name Vote | October 2025 | Public poll closed, ""Mountain and River"" leads |
| Pre‑order Launch | Mid‑2026 | Online portal opens for early birds |
| First Deliveries | Late 2026 | Targeted for Kathmandu and Pokhara showrooms |
The rollout plan is aggressive. Hongqi has already sign‑posted a mid‑2026 pre‑order window, meaning dealerships will need to stock charging infrastructure soon. That matters for the broader EV ecosystem, as high‑performance off‑road EVs demand fast‑charge capability in remote locations.
Four motors, massive torque, and a lock‑system designed for loose terrain give this SUV a unique proposition in a market that still struggles with range anxiety and charging availability. If Hongqi can pair the powertrain with a respectable range – the source is silent on that – the vehicle could become the flagship that pushes Nepal’s EV policy toward more robust off‑road charging networks.
For consumers, the promise is simple: an electric SUV that doesn’t compromise on adventure capability. For the industry, it’s a signal that Chinese manufacturers are willing to invest in niche, high‑performance EVs for emerging markets.
Q: When will the Hongqi quad‑motor SUV be available in Nepal? A: Pre‑orders are slated for mid‑2026, with first deliveries expected by late 2026.
Q: What is the official name of the vehicle? A: The public vote placed ""Mountain and River"" ahead, but the final name will be confirmed once the vote is officially tallied.
Q: How does the torque compare to existing off‑road EVs? A: At 1,850 Nm, it roughly doubles the torque of the Beijing BJ 40 and triples that of the Dongfeng Trax 300.
Q: Will the SUV support fast charging on remote trails? A: Hongqi has not released charging specifications yet, but the brand has indicated plans for fast‑charge compatibility to suit off‑road use.
Q: Are there any special off‑road accessories planned? A: Yes – a roof‑mounted spare tyre, reinforced under‑body panels and a roof‑rack are already confirmed.
Q: How can I participate in the name‑voting process? A: The voting period closed in October 2025; however, future polls for trim‑level names may be announced on Hongqi’s Nepal website.