The electric vehicle (EV) arena has been the center of attention in the global automotive industry lately as both new products and new players are altering the concept of automobiles as we know it. Although EV technology seemingly still has a long way to go before it can become a norm, the demand for it seems to be rising rapidly.
China is one of the few economies that are investing heavily in the EV domain, with automotive companies like BYD, SAIC, and FAW in the aggressive pursuit of a complete transitioning to electric power. One of them is also looking to form a partnership with an Italian EV startup to develop an all-electric hypercar.
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An Italy-based EV startup called Silk EV will partner with First Automobile Works (FAW) to co-develop an “ultra-luxury hypercar”. Dubbed the ‘S9’, the hypercar will be designed and developed by Silk EV, with the Chinese automaker using its technical expertise and financial muscle to assist the startup company.
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The report adds that the vehicle will be marketed under the ‘Hongqi’ brand name, which is the same brand that manufactures the H9, which is the Chinese equivalent of a Rolls Royce Ghost. The vehicle will reportedly be designed by Walter de Silva, a former designer for Alfa Romeo, Lamborghini, and the Volkswagen Audi Group (VAG).
As per the report, the car project is a product of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) which is running in various regions of the world, including Europe. China aims to expand its economic footprint across the globe by introducing various developmental projects across different regions in the world.
China is also making efforts to sell its EVs in the international markets. Although there is arguably a lot of ground to be covered in this regard, the development of this ultra-luxury hypercar will be a massive milestone for the country’s EV products in terms of gaining credibility.
