CHANGCHUN -- China's leading automaker FAW Group said that it has seen a 111-percent year-on-year growth in vehicle sales under its Hongqi brand in the first half of this year.

Despite the impact of the novel coronavirus outbreak, more than 70,000 Hongqi cars were sold in the last six months as the company expanded its online and offline sales channels. In June alone, 15,400 cars of the brand were sold, representing a 92-percent year-on-year growth.

Hongqi met its 2019 sales target of 100,000 cars and has doubled it for 2020.

Hongqi, meaning "red flag," is China's iconic sedan brand. Established in 1958, it has been used in parades at major national celebrations.