Chinese electric vehicle HiPhi X tested ahead of European launch

Chinese carmaker HiPhi, the electric vehicle (EV) automotive brand owned by Human Horizons, has begun testing to achieve European type approval for the HiPhi X.

One of the best-selling EVs in China, the HiPhi X was tested by TÜV SÜD to ensure that it adheres to European standards and regulations.

This includes analysis of the battery management system, chassis control, brakes, steering and active systems such as park assist and radar-guided cruise control.

TÜV SÜD also undertook energy management control (EMC) testing to ensure HiPhi X and its high-voltage components do not interfere with the ambient electromagnetic environment.

“The homologation was crucial in enabling HiPhi products access to the European market,” said Stefan Merkl, vice president automotive at TÜV SÜD.

The HiPhi X Super SUV features some cutting-edge technology, including programmable headlights able to project images or even movies and an intelligent automatic door system.

Its powertrain combines 220kW dual motors front and rear, allowing for 0-62mph (100km/h) in 3.9 seconds, and with motor efficiency of 97.2%.

A 97kWh battery pack provides a range of up to 650km (400 miles) in the extended range version.

Each HiPhi X version comes with a 17-speaker Meridian audio system, a 19.9-inch entertainment screen and is available in six-seat or four-seat configuration.

The brand’s European plans begin with HiPhi X, but will be followed by the HiPhi Z, a fully electric coupé which with a 120kWh battery pack can travel 705km (438 miles) on a single charge.

At the Shanghai Auto Show tomorrow (Tuesday, April 18), HiPhi will reveal an all-new third model, HiPhi Y, designed and engineered with global markets in mind.

HiPhi chief technology officer (CTO) and co-founder Mark Stanton said: “Receiving the necessary test reports from TÜV SÜD for the European vehicle approval is not only an important step forward in our carefully considered plans for launching in Europe, but it’s also a reinforcement of the meticulous standards to which HiPhi products are engineered.

“European road safety standards are among the strictest in the world, and the homologation by TÜV SÜD confirms that HiPhi X meets these standards.”

Further details about HiPhi’s European plans, including launch markets, will be revealed at the Shanghai Auto Show.