Verify once — it unlocks member perks across the whole platform.
Apps & Software
Official companions, cockpit software, and tools every owner needs — with Gulf availability notes.
HONGQI App (International)
Verified
Official
FAW's international owner app — remote control for official Hongqi EVs
•Status query (battery, doors, location)
•Remote unlock and temperature control
•Works with E-HS9 and official MENA models
A real international build exists on the stores. China grey imports fall back to the Chinese app with +86 registration.
iOSAndroidFree
Import Screen Toolkit
Verified
Third-party
The community-proven kit to get YouTube, Google Maps and an Arabic keyboard onto your imported car's screen
•GBox (free): runs Google services — YouTube, Google Maps, Netflix — in a sandbox on GMS-less screens
•Aurora Store (free, open source): download Play Store apps with no Google account, straight from the screen
•Gboard: Arabic/English typing replacing the Chinese-only factory keyboard on imports
•Google Maps or Waze on the factory screen — full Gulf coverage unlike the Chinese factory nav
•Install: ADB from a laptop (adb install -g) — the same path i99dash uses. On BYD install AppManager first to unlock installs
Proven by thousands of owners (XDA + Russian and Gulf communities). Verified caveats: BYD removed ADB in v1.7+ (newer units need a downgrade or an AI Box), OTA updates can wipe apps, and video on the driver screen while moving is illegal and unsafe. APKs must be arm64-v8a.
Adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to any Android car screen
•Full CarPlay + Android Auto, wired and wireless
•No wiring changes — plugs into USB, fully reversible
•Online firmware upgrades via the AutoKit app
Thousands of Amazon owner reviews — the standard in the head-unit scene. On newer locked BYD DiLink units owners use the AI Box hardware variant instead of the APK — warranty-safe and non-invasive.
Unlocks YouTube, IPTV, video and web browsing inside Android Auto — free and open source
•Local video, IPTV (m3u) and YouTube on the car screen via Android Auto
•Built-in web browser and screen mirroring
•Works without root on Android 14/15/16
Installs on your phone (not the head unit) and needs developer mode + Unknown sources in Android Auto settings. For cars with Android Auto. Video while driving is unsafe and illegal — passengers and parked use only.
•Works with any ELM327 Bluetooth adapter (~$10-30)
•Reads/clears fault codes on most brands
Used-buyer alert: true battery health (SOH) is NOT exposed via standard OBD on BYD — you get SoC and voltages only. For an authoritative report before buying a used BYD: dealer diagnostic (VDS) or a pro tool like the Foxwell NT710.
Switch climate to Recirculation. Clean cabin filter bi-weekly during storm season.
🔧
Limited Hongqi service
Few Gulf dealers. Parts may take 1-2 weeks.
Summer Survival Mode
0/10 · 0%
Checklist to prep your EV for 50°C summers. Each item extends battery life and improves your daily drive.
Keys & Access
Hongqi App
Recommended
Bluetooth.
Key fob
Remote.
Driving Assist
Hongqi Pilot
L2+
Highway autopilot.
Safety
⭐
C-NCAP 5 stars
Top safety.
🎈
8 airbags
Comprehensive.
Quick Tasks
How do I X — quick tasks every owner should know.
❄️
Pre-cool before driving
Open the car app
Climate → Pre-cool
Set timer (5-15 min)
Get in cooled
🌙
Schedule night charging
Plug in
Charge → Schedule
Set 23:00 - 06:00
Save — car charges automatically
🏕️
Camp Mode for sleeping
Park in P
Activate Camp Mode from menu
AC stays on without key
Uses ~1 kWh/hour
🔄
Software update
Connect to WiFi
Settings → Software → Check Update
Accept if available
Updates while parked (30-90 min)
Hacks & Secrets
Hidden features, easter eggs, and tricks you won't find in the manual — from real owners.
🌴Gulf-Specific
Pre-cool from the app at home
Open the car app 10 min before leaving. Cabin cools, battery pre-conditions for charging. Saves time, max comfort in 50° summers.
💰Money Saver
Schedule charging at off-peak rates
In countries with time-of-use rates (UAE Slab 1), schedule 23:00-06:00 to save 20-40% on your electricity bill.
🛋️Comfort
Camp Mode for sleeping or waiting
Park in P, enable Camp Mode from menu or voice command. AC stays on, screens dim. Uses only ~1 kWh/hour.
🚀Performance
Max regen for less brake wear
Set regen to highest (One-Pedal or High). Cuts brake wear 60%+ and adds 5-10% range in city traffic.
💰Money Saver
Bump tire pressure +0.2 bar in summer
A small bump (~0.2 bar above recommended) reduces rolling resistance and adds 3-5% range. Also a heat-safety win.
🌴Gulf-Specific
Get the master account transferred BEFORE the car ships
Official regional Hongqis work with the international app; China grey imports bind to the Chinese app with a +86 number — have the exporter set up the account and authorize your number before shipping.
Share a new hack in the community to get it added to this guide.
Test Your Knowledge
Question 1 / 1Score: 0
EH7 power?
Agent & parts
FAQ
Check the dealer list or import directly. Official presence varies per model.
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