Tiangong 05: The all-electric midsize sedan featuring AI-powered deep-learning engine ready to hit the streets of China

Hongqi, one of China's oldest and largest automotive groups (owned by FAW Group), has officially launched the Tiangong 05, an all-electric midsize sedan and the first model in the Tiangong series. Available in four variants, the vehicle is priced between RMB 159,800 and RMB 185,800.

About Tiangong 05

Drawing inspiration from the Hongqi E009 concept car, the Tiangong 05 seamlessly blends signature design elements with a sleek, modern aesthetic. The front showcases a closed-off grille, distinctive leaf-shaped headlights, and Hongqi's iconic red emblem, creating a striking visual presence.

The side profile features an elegant fastback silhouette with a dynamic, upward-sweeping waistline, adding a sense of motion even at a standstill. At the rear, L-shaped taillights echo Hongqi's evolving new energy vehicle design language, reinforcing the brand's commitment to innovative, sustainable mobility.

The Tiangong 05 also features the Hongqi Sinan intelligent driving system, equipped with a 10V advanced vision solution. This system enables urban and highway NOA (Navigate on Autopilot) capabilities and full-scenario intelligent parking assistance, delivering a seamless and intuitive driving experience.

A high-efficiency electric drive system powers the Tiangong 05 developed in-house, delivering a maximum output of 210 kW and a top speed of 200 km/h. Buyers can choose between two battery options: a 62 kWh or an 85 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) pack, offering CLTC ranges of 550 km and 750 km, respectively. The sedan also supports fast charging, replenishing the battery from 10% to 80% in just around 20 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime and maximum convenience.

Rapid growth of EV and aluminium

The rapid growth of electric vehicles (EVs) has fuelled a surge in aluminium demand across the automotive industry. The transition from stainless steel to aluminium is a pivotal shift, as aluminium's superior strength-to-weight ratio enhances fuel efficiency and performance, positioning it as a key material for future vehicle design.

The rising adoption of EVs, coupled with the industry's focus on lightweight materials, continues to drive substantial growth in aluminium usage, solidifying its role in next-generation mobility solutions. As per AL Circle's Outlook report, the global electric vehicle (EV) market — excluding two- and three-wheelers — is poised for rapid expansion. Sales are expected to climb from 14 million in 2023 and 17.1 million in 2024 to nearly 45 million by 2030, and an impressive 65 million by 2035.

Aluminium plays a critical role in enabling this transition, enhancing energy efficiency, safety, and performance. It's used in e-drive housings, battery pack protection, and cooling systems — with its lightweight nature boosting vehicle range and reducing emissions. Even conventional vehicles benefit from lighter materials, which improve fuel efficiency.