New Delhi, Sept 12: Chinese President Xi Jinping’s reported use of the Hongqi N701, a heavily secured state limousine, has attracted attention during his visit to New Delhi for the 18th BRICS Summit.
The vehicle, manufactured by China’s FAW under its Hongqi brand, is a specialised state car associated with the country’s top leadership. Unlike Hongqi’s commercially available luxury models, the N701 is understood to be produced for official government use and is not offered for regular public purchase.
A Highly Protected State Limousine
The Hongqi N701 is believed to be around 5.5 metres long and features the appearance of a large luxury limousine. Details of its protection systems and technical specifications have not been officially disclosed.
Various reports have attributed features such as reinforced bodywork, bullet-resistant glass and specially secured tyres to the vehicle. Claims that it offers protection against explosives or chemical threats, however, have not been officially confirmed by Hongqi.
The limousine has also been associated with Xi’s previous overseas visits, including trips to Russia and the United States.
Engine Details Remain Unconfirmed
Official information about the N701’s powertrain is limited. Some reports have suggested that the vehicle could be equipped with either a 6.0-litre V12 or a V8 engine, but these specifications have not been confirmed by the manufacturer.
The reported production of the N701 is also highly restricted, adding to its exclusivity and its role as a dedicated state vehicle.
Xi’s BRICS Visit
Xi arrived in New Delhi on Saturday at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the BRICS summit. He was accompanied by senior Chinese officials Cai Qi and Wang Yi.
Besides participating in the summit, Xi is expected to hold talks with Modi on the sidelines of the event. His visit is significant for India-China relations, which have been undergoing efforts towards stabilisation following tensions along the border since 2020.
Wang Yi has played a prominent role in diplomatic discussions between the two countries. Ahead of Xi’s visit, he held talks with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval in Beijing.
Against this backdrop, Xi’s presence at the BRICS gathering and his interaction with Modi are being closely watched for their potential impact on the broader India-China relationship.
