I still remember when Xiaomi launched its first electric car, the SU7. It felt like everyone was suddenly talking about Chinese electric vehicles. And then, in a move that surprised many, Zhou Hongyi, the founder of 360, announced he was selling his beloved Maybach S600 to buy a domestic EV. This guy, known for his fiery personality and past tech battles, knows how to grab attention. It made me wonder: is this just Zhou Hongyi being Zhou Hongyi, or is something bigger happening?
I’ve been watching this whole saga unfold, and it’s been fascinating. The minute Zhou announced his decision, it was like every Chinese EV company went into overdrive. Brands like NIO, HiPhi, VOYAH, and others were all over his social media, vying for his attention. Soon, they were practically lining up outside the 360 offices with their latest models. I saw pictures online, it looked like a mini car show! Zhou, being the tech enthusiast he is, started test driving everything. He loved the Zeekr 009, the AITO M9, and the BYD U8, posting videos of his experiences.
Then came the part that had everyone talking. Zhou decided to compare his potential Chinese EVs to a Rolls-Royce Cullinan. He didn’t hold back, saying the interior felt no different from a 300,000-400,000 RMB Chinese car, the back seat wasn’t as comfortable, and it lacked all the smart features he’d come to expect. The Cullinan, in his eyes, became the example of how traditional luxury was failing.
It resonated with me because I’ve felt this shift too. What makes a car luxurious is changing. It’s no longer just about brand name and flashy design. It’s about safety and smart technology – things that many Chinese EVs excel at.
Zhou’s outspoken support for Chinese brands got me thinking about this bigger trend. He’s not alone. Other successful entrepreneurs like Cao Dewang, the founder of Fuyao Glass, are choosing Chinese brands too. Cao famously bought a Hongqi L5, a luxury sedan, and gifted it to his son with the message that this car represents China’s strength. Even Cao’s son, Cao Hui, bought a DENZA D9, showing his support for the growing EV sector.
You can see this trend even with a new high-end brand like BYD’s Yangwang. Over 80% of their U8 SUV buyers are entrepreneurs and executives, people who could easily afford any luxury car in the world but chose to support a Chinese brand.
There’s still a way to go, though. Many, especially older entrepreneurs, still have that old image of Chinese cars from decades ago. But Zhou Hongyi’s actions are making a statement. He’s showing that driving a Chinese EV isn’t just practical, it’s cool, it’s innovative, and it reflects a belief in China’s technological rise.
Honestly, it’s about time! For too long, luxury meant a foreign car. But Chinese EV companies are changing that. They’re offering amazing experiences, cutting-edge technology, and even unique features you won’t find elsewhere. Imagine a world where Chinese entrepreneurs are traveling the globe in their homegrown, high-tech vehicles. That’s the future Zhou Hongyi is helping to build, and I’m excited to be a part of it.