What are the reasons for the delayed launch of the Hongguang Hero?
3 Answers
Hongguang Hero's delayed launch may be due to areas in the car that still require adjustments. Hongguang Hero's exterior: The Hongguang Hero adopts the "Wing Dynamic Aesthetics" design concept for its exterior, but it doesn't give a sense of wing dynamics at all—instead, it looks very rugged. The two X-shaped headlights on the front face are quite distinctive, though they don't seem to harmonize well with the overall front design. On both sides of the roof, there are what appear to be LED lights, which are actually high-power searchlights. Hongguang Hero's configuration: The configuration is more appealing and user-friendly, with a higher ground clearance and the incorporation of some new elements that make it more attractive to younger consumers.
To be honest, I'm also waiting for news about the Hongguang Hero! This vehicle has been hyped since last year, but there's still no definite information. The manufacturer must be facing some tough issues - my guess is production scheduling is the primary challenge. The off-road vehicle market is extremely competitive now, with models like the Tank 300 packing ultra-high configurations. If the Hongguang Hero can't offer competitive pricing, it won't stand a chance. Secondly, the China VI emission standards are particularly strict - I heard their diesel version kept throwing fault codes during powertrain testing. Although the global chip shortage has eased, specialized controllers needed for off-road vehicles are still in short supply. The most troublesome part might be that the manufacturer hasn't even decided internally whether this vehicle should follow a hardcore off-road route or an urban light off-road approach. Just looking at the spy shots of camouflaged vehicles, the ground clearance and bumper design have already been modified three times. But waiting might be good - once they iron out these pain points, we might actually get a real price disruptor in the market.
As someone who frequents 4S dealerships, I've discussed this matter with Wuling's sales manager. The delayed launch of the Hongguang Hero primarily stems from supply chain bottlenecks—the specialized steel required for its body-on-frame construction costs 40% more than regular SUVs, compounded by recent raw material price hikes. After switching the transfer case supplier from ZF to a domestic brand, durability tests failed twice, requiring rework. Additionally, the manufacturer maintains rigorous quality control—last month's trial assembly revealed rear axle noise, prompting meetings with the entire drivetrain supplier team. Dealers are anxious too, with showroom spaces reserved for six months and even printed brochures becoming outdated. Recent rumors suggest high-temperature testing in Xinjiang—if this plateau calibration succeeds, small-scale deliveries might commence by year-end. Developing such a rugged off-roader always takes time, especially since it's Wuling's first attempt.
