{
  "id": 6891455,
  "title": "What Is Xi Jinping’s 'Red Limo'? Inside Armoured Hongqi N701 With Bulletproof Glass, Anti-Chemical Defence",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/12/what-is-xi-jinpings-red-limo-inside-armoured-hongqi-n701-with",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-12T07:48:58.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Free Press Journal",
    "slug": "free-press-journal",
    "url": "https://www.freepressjournal.in/world/what-is-xi-jinpings-red-limo-inside-armoured-hongqi-n701-with-bulletproof-glass-anti-chemical-defence"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "When President Xi Jinping travels internationally, he does not rely solely on a luxurious car provided by the host country. Instead, China often dispatches its own heavily protected limousine from Hongqi, the Chinese automobile brand that translates to \"Red Flag\". This armoured vehicle, most commonly known as the Hongqi N701, has become a familiar sight during Xi’s overseas trips, including his upcoming visit to New Delhi for the 18th BRICS Summit.\n\nThe N701 is far more than a mere luxury car. It is a purpose-built, heavily armored state limousine designed to safeguard the occupant and provide secure communication channels, while simultaneously showcasing China’s domestic automotive prowess. The vehicle measures approximately 5.5 meters in length and weighs more than three tonnes. Its imposing exterior features a large vertical chrome grille, darkened headlights, and prominent red-flag emblems on the front fender and hood.\n\nWhat sets the N701 apart is the array of protective features hidden beneath its formidable exterior. Reports suggest that the vehicle is equipped with heavy armor, bullet-resistant glass, and reinforced wheels and tires designed to maintain mobility even after sustaining damage. Additionally, the limousine is believed to have systems in place to protect its occupants from potential chemical or biological threats, although the exact specifications of these systems remain classified.\n\nFunctioning as a state vehicle for an individual of high political rank, the N701 is equipped with advanced secure communications technology, enabling the Chinese leadership to maintain protected conversations while en route. However, due to its sensitivity, details of the car’s ballistic protection, mechanical specifications, and other security systems are not disclosed to the public.\n\nEstablished in 1958, Hongqi was originally created to manufacture vehicles for China’s political leadership and significant state events. Its early models were hand-built in limited numbers and became synonymous with China’s Communist Party leadership. In recent years, Hongqi has experienced a resurgence as a modern commercial marque, driven by Beijing's push for domestic manufacturing and technological advancements.\n\nDuring Xi’s overseas appearances, Hongqi serves a dual purpose: it is not merely a mode of transportation but a symbol of Chinese self-reliance, national pride, and industrial prowess. President Xi has utilized Hongqi vehicles during significant state events, military parades, and international visits. Furthermore, China employs these vehicles during crucial engagements, rather than depending on vehicles provided by the host nation. This practice allows Beijing to maintain control over the President’s transportation and security arrangements while presenting a distinctly Chinese alternative to the heavily guarded vehicles used by other world leaders.\n\nThe N701 is not the only Hongqi associated with China’s leadership. The Hongqi L5, launched commercially in the 2010s, shares similarities in styling with classic Hongqi vehicles from the 1960s. Known for its imposing grille and luxurious interiors, the L5 boasts some models featuring extensive use of leather and wood. Armored variants of the L5 have also been utilized for official purposes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to China, has also traveled in a Hongqi vehicle.",
  "summary": "New Delhi: When Chinese President Xi Jinping travels abroad, he does not simply rely on a luxury car arranged by the host country. Instead, China often flies in its own official vehicle a heavily protected limousine from Hongqi, the Chinese automobile marque whose name translates to “Red Flag”. The imposing red-flagged car has become a familiar sight during Xi’s overseas visits and is expected to…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}