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Qualities of China's most expensive car that ferried Ruto

Exploring the exceptional attributes of the car that transported Ruto in China's diplomatic style

The Hongqi L5 and President William Ruto [Inset]

During his visit to China, President William Ruto had the honour of being chauffeured in the Hongqi L5, China's prestigious presidential car, also utilised by President Xi Jinping for official functions.

For Kenyan consumers interested in acquiring this luxurious vehicle, they would need to allocate approximately Sh119.5 million, bearing in mind that there are models designed for civilian use.

The Hongqi L5, a grand retro-styled luxury automobile crafted by Hongqi, draws inspiration from the bygone era of the Hongqi CA770.

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Unveiled in 2013 at the prestigious Shanghai Auto Show, the L5 stands as a testament to opulence and distinction, proudly holding the title of the priciest Chinese-manufactured car accessible to discerning buyers.

Remarkably, this elegant sedan has earned the prestigious status of serving as the official state vehicle for China's President Xi Jinping.

However, the privilege of experiencing this automotive masterpiece is currently reserved solely for the Chinese market.

The Hongqi L5 exudes a blend of tradition and luxury that resonates deeply with Chinese cultural symbolism.

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Notably, the inner rim of the L5's steering wheel serves a dual purpose, functioning as the horn, while its iconic golden sunflower emblem positioned at the center carries profound connotations of good fortune and longevity in Chinese belief systems.

Stepping into the Hongqi L5, one immediately encounters a meticulously crafted interior. Drenched in opulent cream-white leather and adorned with rosewood panels, the cabin represents a true work of art.

The focal point of the interior is a generously sized 15.3-inch fully digital instrument panel, artfully mounted in the center. Below, an 8-inch touchscreen display reigns, orchestrating the car's infotainment features and seamlessly managing a plethora of functions.

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The vehicle's rear compartment showcases a myriad of delights for passengers. It includes a 6-disc CD changer, a state-of-the-art Bose sound system, and a rear-seat entertainment system complete with a TV for indulging in cinematic experiences.

The luscious beige carpets underfoot exude luxury, while the generous legroom of 1.1 meters ensures passengers can travel in ultimate comfort and style.

The Hongqi L5 beckons to the discerning connoisseur with a taste for both heritage and modernity, promising a truly elevated driving experience.

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The heart of the Hongqi L5 beats with a robust 6.0-liter V12 engine, a powerhouse that channels approximately 402 horsepower to the four wheels through a responsive 6-speed automatic gearbox.

With this formidable setup, the L5 delivers both power and precision, ensuring a smooth and exhilarating ride for its occupants.

What sets the Hongqi L5 apart is its impressive efficiency, allowing it to cover substantial distances on a single tank of fuel.

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Sporting a 105-liter fuel tank, this luxury sedan can journey over 500 miles before needing a refuel.

This remarkable range adds a practical dimension to the opulent experience of driving the Hongqi L5, making it not only a symbol of prestige but also a paragon of performance and efficiency.

The Hongqi L5 proudly showcases China's iconic red-flag emblems, a symbol of national pride, and a testament to its heritage.

In terms of safety, the car incorporates a highly luminous lighting system comprising 16 efficient LEDs.

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This advanced lighting not only enhances the car's aesthetics but also significantly improves visibility during nighttime and adverse weather conditions.

A distinctive feature of the L5's design is its gun barrel-shaped headlight, housing a traditional halogen lamp.

This unique design element adds an air of elegance and a touch of nostalgia to the vehicle's overall appearance.

Furthermore, the headlight design ingeniously integrates an air vent on the lampshade, a functional element that contributes to the car's performance.

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The air vents on the lampshade serve a dual purpose. They are intricately linked to the internal air filters, which are strategically positioned on both sides of the vehicle's engine.

This design ensures that the engine receives a constant and optimal supply of clean air, which is vital for its efficiency and longevity.

By combining aesthetics with functionality, the Hongqi L5 embodies a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, making it a distinctive and remarkable luxury car in the automotive world.

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