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South African Road Trips

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 11:57:26 GMT

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South African Roads & Stories: The Great Easter Road Trip

There is something unmistakable about South African roads over Easter. Cars packed to the roof, early morning departures, padkos in back and long stretches of highway leading to family, coastlines, or the bush. It’s more than just a getaway. It’s a tradition.

Every year, millions of South Africans take to the road over the Easter weekend - one of the busiest travel periods on the calendar. It’s a time for reconnecting, reflecting and rediscovering the country, one journey at a time. At Changan, we believe in mobility that powers these moments: shared playlists, open skies and the freedom to explore.

Why The Easter Road Trip Still Matters

Easter travel in South Africa isn’t just about the destination - it’s about the journey itself. Families travel across provinces, friends escape the city and communities reconnect after time apart.

According to Statistics South Africa, domestic travellers took 25.8 million overnight trips in 2024 - up from 23.2 million the year before. Their total spend topped R57.9-billion, with R37.6-billion of that going to overnight stays. That means people are not just taking short day trips, they’re staying, exploring and investing in local tourism. Even more tellingly, South African Tourism’s 2024/2025 annual report shows that domestic holiday trips reached 11.5 million in that year. When domestic travel is accessible, people will always choose the road less travelled.

Recent travel trends continue to show strong domestic movement, with South Africans choosing the flexibility of road travel over rigid schedules. The ability to stop, explore, and travel on your own terms remains a powerful draw. From coastal drives along the Garden Route to inland journeys toward Limpopo or the Drakensberg, the Easter weekend brings the country to life - one road at a time.

Vehicles Built For Every Journey

Changan’s range of vehicles is designed to make every journey comfortable, capable and enjoyable. The Alsvin sedan offers efficient, practical mobility for shorter trips and urban escapes, while the CS75 Pro SUV provides the space and comfort that families need for longer journeys.

For those heading off the beaten track, the Hunter Diesel pickup and the Hunter K50 REEV combine power, capability, and extended range - ideal for reaching more remote destinations with confidence.

Even the Deepal S07 brings a new dimension to road travel, with intelligent features, advanced safety systems, and a refined driving experience that makes every kilometre an effortless one.

The Role of Mobility

Road trips are more than travel - they are part of South Africa’s economic and social fabric. Every stop along the way supports local businesses, from roadside stalls and fuel stations to guesthouses and small-town cafés. Reliable mobility plays a critical role in enabling this movement. It’s about having a vehicle you can trust - one that delivers comfort over long distances, efficiency where it matters, and confidence when the road stretches ahead.

At Changan, we see mobility as a way to unlock these experiences - giving people the freedom to move, connect, and explore without limits.

Driven by the Journey

As South Africans take to the roads this Easter, one thing remains clear: the road trip is not just alive - it’s part of who we are.

It’s in the early starts, the long conversations, the unexpected stops and the memories made along the way. And as more journeys unfold across the country, our commitment remains the same - to build vehicles for South Africans that keep every trip comfortable, every destination within reach, and every moment moving forward.

Because being Driven to Evolve means creating mobility that moves people - and the stories they carry - forward.

Why New Automotive Brands Are No Longer the Risky Choice

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 13:10:09 GMT

Why New Automotive Brands Are No Longer the Risky Choice

For decades, car buyers followed a simple rule: choose the badge you know.
Familiarity felt safe. Established brands meant reliability, parts availability and resale value.
But the automotive landscape has changed.

Today, new automotive brands are not entering markets as experiments. Many arrive as global powerhouses - backed by international scale, advanced research, and proven performance across dozens of countries. The conversation has shifted from “Is it risky?” to “What exactly am I getting for my money?”

The Global Shift in Automotive Power

Innovation is no longer concentrated among a handful of legacy manufacturers.
Some of the fastest-growing automotive brands operate in more than 70 countries and invest heavily in research, safety development, and next-generation platforms.

South African consumers, armed with access to global reviews and safety ratings, understand this shift. Reputation is now built on measurable performance - not just decades of local presence.

More Technology. Smarter Value.

Many newer-generation brands are designed for the modern era from the outset. Without legacy systems to maintain, they integrate advanced safety features, connectivity, and contemporary design as standard. For value-conscious South Africans, this matters. Buyers expect more than affordability - they expect intelligent value, where features, quality and pricing all align.

Reliability Is About Infrastructure & Support

Reliability is not defined by how long a logo has been visible locally. It is defined by engineering capability, production standards, supply chains, and after-sales support. Globally established manufacturers entering South Africa bring large-scale production capacity, rigorous quality control, and structured parts networks. When supported by a growing local dealership footprint, the foundations for long-term confidence are already in place.

A Market Ready for Evolution

South African consumers are informed, comparison-driven, and open to innovation.
They evaluate warranties, service plans, safety credentials, and ownership costs with clarity.
In this environment, new brands are judged on facts - not familiarity. And when the facts are strong, hesitation fades. The idea that “new” equals “risky” no longer applies.

New to you, could also mean “existing global scale.”
New to you, could also mean “advanced thinking, that’s been proven elsewhere.”
New to you, could also mean “much better value for money.”

In today’s automotive market, new is no longer uncertain. New is evolution.

Why Reliability Is the New Luxury

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 13:46:58 GMT

Why Reliability Is the New Luxury

Luxury used to centre around exclusivity, excess, and often – inaccessibility.

But as vehicles have become more technologically complex and ownership realities more demanding, the definition of luxury has quietly changed. Today, true luxury is trust.

It’s knowing your vehicle will start every morning. It’s confidence in build quality.

It’s engineering that works consistently, not occasionally, and the peace of mind that your vehicle purchase is not one that you’re going to regret.

Reliability Has Become The Ultimate Status Symbol.

For South African drivers, this shift is especially pronounced. Long distances, varied road conditions and real-world usage demand more than surface-level sophistication. A vehicle must endure. It must perform. It must justify its place in daily life. This is where heritage matters, not as nostalgia, but as proof.

Since 1816 – Over 160 Years of Proven Engineering

Changan’s journey spans decades of manufacturing, engineering and global collaboration.

Long before it became visible to many local buyers, it was building vehicles at scale, refining processes and meeting stringent international standards. This depth of experience doesn’t shout. It shows up in customer acceptance and long-term proven durability. Recently, Changan passed the colossal milestone of 30 million drivers, worldwide. A feat that it achieved through consistently placing build quality and reliability at the top of the priority list. Reliability is never accidental. It is designed, tested, stressed and validated. And then repeated.

Global Resources, Locally Applied

Changan’s development processes draw on global platforms and partnerships, with rigorous quality control prioritized at every stage of production. Vehicles are engineered to meet demanding markets and regulations, not just price targets. The result is consistency across the range, from compact sedans to SUV’s and bakkies.

Build quality is often described in emotional terms, but its true impact is practical. Fewer unexpected issues. Predictable servicing. Components that age well. Systems that integrate smoothly rather than fighting each other over time. This is why reliability now sits at the heart of modern luxury. It removes friction from ownership. It reduces anxiety. It allows the vehicle to fade into the background of life, doing its job quietly and consistently, over the many years of ownership.

Playing The Long Game

Changan’s rise has not been about overnight disruption. It has been a measured journey of capability building, refinement and confidence earned through consistency. Each model builds on the last. Each carries the weight of its predecessor’s success, continually raising the bar and elevating benchmarks and standards.

In a car-world full of gimmicky features, screens and surface-level fanfare, reliability is what endures, in the long run. And increasingly, it’s what practical and discerning buyers value most.

A New Kind Of Car Buyer Is Emerging In South Africa

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 13:18:28 GMT

A New Kind Of Car Buyer Is Emerging In South Africa

South Africans have always had a practical relationship with their cars. But over the past few years, that relationship has changed in ways the industry can no longer ignore.

Economic pressure, rising fuel costs, new technology and the reality of loadshedding have changed expectations. At Changan, where every vehicle is built with real life in mind, we’ve been watching these patterns closely to understand what truly matters to people who rely on their vehicles every day.

Value For Money, As An Anchor

Affordability now drives most vehicle decisions. Buyers are cautious, comparison-driven and focused on long-term costs.The TransUnion South Africa Vehicle Pricing Index recently highlighted that used-vehicle financing has outpaced new-vehicle financing, reflecting cost-conscious behaviour across the market.

Nedbank’s Motor Finance Corporation (MFC) research shows that rising interest rates have tightened credit access, making consumers more sensitive to monthly repayment structures and total cost over time.

For Changan - known globally for delivering more features, more technology and more safety at a price that makes sense - this shift aligns with our belief that value should be made accessible to all South African drivers.

New vs Used

Despite budget pressure, perceptions are also changing. TransUnion’s Mobility Insights Report found that competitively priced Chinese entrants are drawing buyers back toward new vehicles by offering modern features, safety and strong value at accessible pricing levels.

Changan’s growth across Africa reflects this trend: drivers want the peace of mind of a new vehicle with warranty support, advanced safety systems, and the latest engineering - all without stretching their budgets beyond what’s realistic. This points to a buyer who is weighing every Rand carefully, but still wants something reliable, up-to-date and future-ready.

Ownership Models Are Evolving

Traditional financing is no longer the default. According to TransUnion South Africa, younger consumers are increasingly exploring subscription models, leasing options and alternative access arrangements.

Nedbank MFC reports that extended terms, including 84-month financing with balloon structures, are becoming far more common, revealing a desire for flexibility as a form of affordability.

It’s a signal that access matters just as much as ownership - and that manufacturers must simplify choices, support flexible journeys, and create vehicles that deliver long-term confidence. At Changan, we design with this lifecycle in mind, ensuring low running costs, durable engineering and accessible servicing.

Fuel Costs and Real-World Conditions

Fuel price volatility continues to influence buying decisions. Consumers are prioritising efficiency, but not at the expense of power. Research by market research company KLA found that while practicality leads decision-making, 80% of South Africans still prefer powerful engines because durability and capability matter on diverse road surfaces.

Changan’s powertrains, many of which benefit from highly efficiency technology, are engineered to balance performance and real-world fuel savings - ensuring you get the strength you need without punishing your pocket. Loadshedding and infrastructure concerns are also influencing how consumers view energy-dependent technology, long-distance travel and charging accessibility.

Electric Vehicles: Optimism Meets Caution

South Africans are enthusiastic - but realistic. KLA research shows that while 72% believe electric vehicles represent the future, 71% still prefer petrol vehicles due to infrastructure gaps and range anxiety.

However, TransUnion reports that hybrid and plug-in hybrid sales have grown more than 60% year-on-year, suggesting that transitional technology is gaining traction as a practical stepping stone toward electrification.

As one of the world’s leaders in EV and hybrid development, Changan continues to invest heavily in the technologies that will make electrification more attainable. Our global R&D network - including the Changan Global Research & Development Centre - ensures we stay at the forefront of cleaner, smarter, future-focused mobility.

The Digital Buyer Has Arrived

The car-buying journey now begins online. TransUnion Africa reports a 27.9% year-on-year increase in Gen Z finance volumes, with 76% of buyers turning to social platforms for research before ever visiting a dealership.

Consumers are more informed, more comparison savvy and expect in-vehicle technology - from smart safety systems to seamless smartphone integration - as standard rather than premium.

Changan’s intelligent cabins, voice-activated systems, advanced driver-assistance technologies and intelligent connectivity meet these expectations head-on, making high-end innovation attainable for everyday driving.

What This Means From Changan’s Perspective

South Africans want vehicles that make sense for real life. They want value without compromise, technology that feels useful and uncomplicated, durability suited to real roads and real ownership, and confidence that their choice will stand the test of time.

This is where Changan continues to excel:

· Real value backed by global engineering

· Quality built and tested across international R&D centres

· Safety systems that support every journey

· Technology that uplifts daily life

· Reliability shaped for African conditions

· And long-term support through solid dealer networks and accessible servicing.

Our role and goal is to meet South African customers where they are, listen closely and help define a future where innovation feels attainable, practical and genuinely supportive of the way South Africans move.

Changan Officially Launches into South Africa with Extravagant Sun City Event

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 10:40:47 GMT

A Global Powerhouse Arrives

Sun City South Africa; 25 October 2025: Jameel Motors South Africa introduced Changan into South Africa with a high energy overnight stay at Sun City, one of South Africa’s most iconic destinations. Comprising a gala dinner and brand expo both hosted at the Superbowl, this premium event brought together over 330 media representatives, valued customers, fleet operators, strategic stakeholders, and dealer partners. It was a celebration of innovation, lifestyle, and the brand’s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences beyond the road.

The Sun City Celebration

At the gala dinner, guests enjoyed a curated itinerary of luxury hospitality with some of South Africa’s top local talent including the Mzansi Youth Choir and Jay Something with the evening hosted by industry veteran Katlego Maboe. The entertainment was a spectacular showcase of South African culture. A vibrant fusion of sound, rhythm, gymnastics, and dance, all celebrating the spirit of innovation and creativity. From the words of Lebo Mashile, poet and iconic South African to the Mzansi Youth Choir’s energy and Jay Something’s smooth tones, guests were wowed from one entertainment set to the next.

Marinus Venter, Country General Manager Jameel Motors South Africa, said “What you see around you tonight is not just the launch of a new car brand. It’s the result of countless hours of work by a handful of people with a shared belief that we could build something special, right here, in South Africa. Changan is not entering South Africa as just another name in the market. We’re here to set a new standard where quality, technology, and reliability meet real value.”

Mr Xiao Feng, General Manager Changan Automobile Middle East and Africa spoke about partnership saying: “The future of mobility belongs to those who dare to imagine, who innovate, and who collaborate.”

The Cars of Tomorrow, Available Today

The experience was rounded off with immersive brand engagement, including test drives of the latest models, interactive sessions with product specialists, and networking opportunities in a world-class setting. The brand expo showcased Changan’s current lineup of the Alsvin sedan, CS75 Pro SUV, Hunter Range and Deepal S07 EV. Guests were treated to an exclusive preview of two upcoming models set to launch in Q1 2026, the sleek Changan Uni-S and the innovative Deepal S05 REEV.

Guests praised the event as a bold and confident entry into South Africa’s competitive automotive market, with one dealer remarking, 'It’s been a while since I’ve attended a launch as impressive as this one.”

The event reflected Changan and Jameel Motors South Africa’s commitment to creating meaningful connections and showcasing how its vehicles complement the aspirational lifestyles of South African drivers.

Innovation on Display: Changan South Africa Opens Flagship Showroom in Pretoria.

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 18:50:20 GMT

Pretoria, South Africa; 23 October 2025: Changan South Africa, and its official distributor Jameel Motors South Africa, are proud to announce the official launch of Changan’s Flagship Showroom in Pretoria, marking a significant milestone in their expansion across the country. This event showcased Changan’s strategic positioning in the local market and unveiled its latest range of vehicles, reinforcing its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric mobility.

The flagship showroom is 1 of 25 fully trained and equipped Changan dealerships nationwide, currently ready to support sales, service, and parts. This network will continue to expand as the customer base grows, ensuring accessibility and convenience for Changan owners across South Africa. At the event, a diverse range of vehicles was unveiled to meet the needs of South African drivers; the Alsvin sedan, CS75 Pro SUV, Hunter Turbo Diesel, Hunter Hunter Range Extending Electric Vehicle [REEV], and the Deepal S07 EV. This mix of petrol, hybrid, and electric vehicles reflects the importance of giving customers choice and flexibility as the market evolves.

Marinus Venter , Country General Manager Jameel Motors South Africa , commented: “Thank you to everyone who joined us, your presence made this launch truly special. We’re really looking forward to what’s ahead. Customers will benefit from Changan Aftersales, a comprehensive support programme including service and maintenance plans, extended warranties, 24-hour roadside assistance, and access to our national dealer network. It’s our way of ensuring complete peace of mind and building trust from day one.”

Mr Xiao Feng, General Manager Changan Automobile Middle East and Africa added: ‘We are so excited to be in South Africa with Jameel Motors as our partner and look forward to building our legacy here and being a part of the country’s fabric.”

While the unveiling of Changan’s new vehicle range was a highlight of the event, no one expected to meet the country’s first Changan owner. Martinique Lamprecht, a high school student who had just completed one of her exams arrived with her father to take ownership of her brand new Alsvin 1.5 DCT completely unbeknownst to her. “For me, this isn’t just my first car, it’s my freedom, my independence and my own new beginning” said Lamprecht .

The launch was attended by key government officials, industry leaders, and media representatives, with addresses from Mr Musa Khumalo, Governance and Support Officer (GSO) City of Tshwane and Phindile Jonas, Deputy Director of Registration and Compliance.

Mr Khumalo said on behalf of Member of the Mayoral Committee Sarah Mabotsa, “the City of Tshwane is greatly honoured to be the host and chosen city for Changan’s first flagship dealership in South Africa. This is a powerful vote of confidence in our city’s infrastructure, talent and opportunity. Furthermore, this partnership aligns with the city’s recently launched economic revitalization strategy that seeks to further enhance the automotive industry and position the city as the preferred destination for the automotive sector.”

As Changan South Africa continues to grow its footprint, the launch of the Pretoria flagship showroom is more than a milestone, it’s a statement of intent. Every innovation, every customer experience, and every vehicle in the range reflects the brand promise: Driven to Evolve. This commitment means adapting to changing mobility needs, embracing sustainability, and delivering excellence at every touchpoint. With a nationwide network and a future-focused approach, Changan is ready to redefine what South Africans expect from modern motoring.

Changan Marks a Historic Arrival: First Shipment Docks at Durban Port

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 22:32:23 GMT

A New Chapter Begins for Changan and Jameel Motors South Africa

Durban, South Africa - On 6 October 2025, a significant milestone was reached as the first vessel carrying Changan Motor vehicles successfully docked at the Port of Durban. This inaugural shipment marks an exciting new chapter for Jameel Motors South Africa and the Changan brand, which is set to launch nationally, later in the month.

The arrival of these vehicles represents more than just the start of local distribution - it signals Changan’s commitment to establishing a long-term presence built on trust, innovation and customer-focused service.

Delivering Progress: The First Shipment

The first vessel brought a mix of Changan vehicles to South African shores, consisting of Alsvin, CS75 Pro and Deepal S07 models. Each vehicle embodies Changan’s global reputation for precision engineering, advanced technology, and superior quality - now ready to meet the needs of South African motorists.

This shipment sets the tone for what lies ahead: a steady rollout of Changan’s diverse product range across the country, with new and exciting models planned to join the lineup in 2026.

Partnerships That Drive Excellence

To ensure seamless operations and exceptional service delivery, Jameel Motors South Africa has partnered with Vehicle Delivery Services (VDS), a trusted local vehicle logistics company. VDS will manage all customs clearance, storage and delivery logistics, ensuring that each Changan vehicle is processed efficiently and handled with the utmost care from port to dealership. This collaboration reinforces Changan’s commitment to building strong local partnerships that uphold global standards.

Driving Forward: Innovation, Quality, and Value

The arrival of the first Changan shipment marks the start of a journey - one defined by innovation, quality and value. With every new vehicle that reaches South African roads, Changan reaffirms its mission: to make advanced, reliable mobility accessible to all.

As the brand continues to grow its footprint across the nation, customers can look forward to a future powered by cutting-edge design, intelligent performance and unwavering support.

Driven to Evolve. Ready for South Africa

From the port of Durban to dealerships across the country, this milestone represents the momentum behind Changan’s vision – to bring over 160 years of global expertise and trusted engineering to South African drivers who demand tomorrow’s automotive advancements, today.

Changan at IAA Mobility 2025: Showcasing Smart Mobility for South Africa.

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 11:31:04 GMT

Munich, Germany - Changan Automobile made a bold statement at IAA Mobility 2025, unveiling new electric models and smart mobility technologies that underline its global ambition, set to translate into an exciting local vison for South Africa. Under the theme “Changan, Sharing the Future,” the brand displayed its DEEPAL and AVATR lines both inside the Messe München halls and in outdoor showcases across Munich’s city-center.

The Deepal S05 was officially launched in Europe at the show, revealing an EV SUV with elegant styling, frameless doors and modern design language tailored for intelligent, sustainable mobility.

Changan’s booth emphasized its “smart mobility” roadmap, including electrification, intelligent driving systems, and innovation under the DUBHE Plan 2.0, which commits to accelerating intelligent, low-carbon vehicle solutions.

The display also included immersive experiences of connectivity, in-vehicle intelligence, and next-generation technology - giving attendees a look at how Changan’s global developments will translate into real, usable features.

What South Africa Can Expect

For South Africa, Changan’s presence at IAA Mobility 2025 isn’t just global showmanship – it’s a clear signal of long-term commitment. The brand’s New Energy Vehicle (NEV) and intelligent driving technology roadmap means the advanced features seen in Munich (such as smart UX, electrified powertrains, and strong R&D investment) are on their way into local models. Changan isn’t entering the market to merely compete – it’s here to shape the future.

“What was unveiled in Munich shows what’s possible – not in some distant future, but for the vehicles we’re bringing to South Africa today. Luxury, intelligence, and sustainability are not add-ons; they’re standard in Changan’s vision of mobility,” says Jameel Motors South Africa Country Manager, Marinus Venter.

The Munich showcase reinforced Changan’s local South African promise of “Driven To Evolve.” By demonstrating global engineering prowess, innovation in NEVs, and its smart mobility roadmap, the company is making tangible promises – not just to customers in Europe, but to South African drivers who expect durability, value, and intelligent design.

Changan also highlighted models tailored for emerging NEV markets, like South Africa. The Double cab, Hunter REEV, already confirmed and positioned as the electrified pickup built for local conditions, shows how range-extended technology can succeed in a country still developing its charging infrastructure. Looking ahead, the Deepal S05 REEV – planned for local introduction in 2026 – will extend this approach, offering cutting-edge mobility without compromising practicality.

Commenting on the question of infrastructure, Marinus Venter emphasized: “For us, infrastructure is not a concern. With our REEV technology, we provide all the superb driving pleasure of an electric vehicle, but without the dependency on public charging. The range extender generator eliminates range anxiety, making it an ideal solution for South African motorists.”

From Local Legend to Global Leader: CHANGAN’s Evolution in Motion

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 07:45:05 GMT

One of China’s “big four” automotive groups, Changan has evolved into a formidable global presence. More than just a manufacturer, the company now stands as a symbol of engineering strength technological intelligence and international ambition.

Operating in over 75 countries and exporting to 77, Changan’s reach is more than merely aspirational. The brand’s physical footprint includes 14 manufacturing bases and 34 plants worldwide, reinforced by an expansive network of over 9,000 sales and service touchpoints.

Nearly 12,000 professionals fuel this operation, which is evidence of a brand not only built to compete, but to lead.

Scale with purpose, partnerships with vision

Behind Changan’s expansion is a highly coordinated web of global alliances. More than 1,100 international suppliers and over 9,300 dealers share in the company’s mission to deliver smart, reliable, and technologically advanced vehicles.

In 2024, that shared vision translated into staggering results: 2.7 million Changan vehicles were delivered globally in a single year. These are the results of an operation engineered for scale, precision, and global reverence.

Engineering that drives the future

At the centre of Changan’s success is a culture of innovation. Over 18,000 engineers and technicians from 31 countries form a powerhouse of expertise, ensuring that the company anticipates and shapes market trends.

Changan’s R&D reach extends across ten cities in six countries, including Detroit, Munich, Yokohama, and Turin, embedding the brand in the global epicentres of automotive and technological advancement.

Technology with depth

This innovation isn’t superficial. The company maintains full, independent development capabilities across vehicles, engines, and systems, supporting its own vision of future-ready mobility.

Its 16 research centres and 17 tech companies ensure the pipeline is always active, always evolving. One result of this investment is the SDA (Super DNA) platform - an adaptive, digital vehicle architecture built for next-generation demands.

With self-learning systems, plug-and-play hardware, and scenario-based programming, SDA is modular, intelligent, and future-proof.

Design with distinction

Changan’s pursuit of design excellence has earned it global acclaim, including the prestigious Red Dot Design Award, showcasing a maturity in aesthetic components that complements its technical prowess.

Meanwhile, the company’s investment in autonomous driving, human-machine interaction, and connected ecosystems reflect a clear direction: leadership in intelligent, sustainable mobility.

Charting a global course

Perhaps the most telling sign of Changan’s global intent is its “Vast Ocean Plan”. Announced in April 2023, this international strategy aims to cement Changan’s place among the world’s premier automotive brands.

By 2030, Changan aims to surpass $10 billion in overseas investment, achieve 1.2 million annual sales outside China, and build a global workforce of more than 10,000 employees focused solely on international markets.

For the global auto industry, it’s further proof that Changan’s ascent is not a matter of if, but rather where next.

CHANGAN Unveils South African HQ and First Flagship Dealership in Pretoria

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 09:47:57 GMT

PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA, August 26, 2025:

Jameel Motors has opened new headquarters in Menlyn, Pretoria, and secured 25 dealer locations across the country to look after the Changan brand, which returns after an absence of more than a decade.

In March it was announced the state-owned Chinese brand would return with a range of up to 10 models imported by Jameel Motors, an independent distributor dealing with marques including Toyota, Lexus, BYD and MG Motor in 14 countries.

From October, the company will start retailing a line-up of Changan-branded SUVs, sedans and pickups powered by internal combustion engines, and an electric S07 SUV from Changan’s new-energy subsidiary Deepal.

Headquartered in Chongqing, Changan Automobile is China’s fourth-largest automotive group with a presence in over 70 countries and sales of 2.7-million units in 2024.

The opening of the Menlyn headquarters marks a milestone as the brand gears up for its market entry later this year.

A team of seasoned motor industry professionals is driving the launch, led by Marinus Venter (country manager), Max de Wit (GM of dealer network and sales) and Raymond Mahlatsi (GM of aftersales). With an average of 20 years’ experience in the automotive sector, the team brings the credibility and expertise needed to compete with established players.

Jameel Motors has partnered with two logistics leaders to ensure operations and customer support, with VDS (One Logix) managing vehicle distribution and DP World taking care of parts logistics to ensure availability and on-time deliveries.

Construction is under way on a flagship showroom in Brooklyn, Pretoria.

China Changan Automobile Group Officially Established, Poised to Lead Global Automotive Innovation

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 18:59:00 GMT

CHONGQING, CHINA, July 29, 2025

China Changan Automobile Group Co., Ltd. proudly announces its official establishment, formed through the strategic integration of key entities including Changan Automobile, Chenzhi Group, and Changan Auto Finance. Anchored by Changan Automobile's 41 years of rich heritage in vehicle manufacturing, China Changan Automobile Group is now dedicated exclusively to the automotive industry, and is poised for unprecedented growth.

Boasting a robust registered capital of RMB 20 billion, total assets of RMB 308.7 billion, and an annual revenue of RMB 340 billion, China Changan Automobile Group now integrates the full automotive value chain—spanning vehicle and component manufacturing, automotive sales, financial services, logistics, after-sales care, and motorcycle operations. This new chapter positions the Group to deliver smarter, more sustainable, and more connected mobility solutions to customers worldwide.

Employing approximately 110,000 people, China Changan Automobile Group is committed to becoming a global leader in intelligent and new energy vehicles. By leveraging proprietary core technologies and expanding international partnerships, the Group aims to accelerate innovation and redefine the future of mobility.

With 117 subsidiaries, 21 manufacturing bases, and a diverse product portfolio, Changan's products have reached customers in 103 countries and regions worldwide. Under the Vast Ocean Plan global strategy, the Group aims to sell 5 million vehicles annually by 2030, including 3 million new energy vehicles (NEVs). Overseas sales are projected to account for 30% of total volume. While each of Changan Automobile's established brands—AVATR, DEEPAL and CHANGAN—will continue to operate with their unique identities and strengths, uniting under the China Changan Automobile Group umbrella enhances their abilities to serve customers worldwide with greater focus, agility, and innovation.

Jameel Motors Enters South African Market with Distribution of Changan Automobile Vehicles

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 18:59:00 GMT

Johannesburg, South Africa ; March 31, 2025:

Jameel Motors , a leading provider of mobility solutions and partner of choice to top automotive brands, and Changan Automobile , have signed an agreement to distribute sports utility vehicles (SUVs), sedans, pickups, and new energy vehicles (NEVs) in South Africa.

This marks a new market entry for Jameel Motors. The South African market represents a significant long-term investment opportunity, given that it is the largest automotive market in Africa, with new vehicles sales totaling over 500k in 2024, as well as the growing demand for affordable vehicles with the latest technology. In January 2025 the new passenger car market saw an increase of 18.3% cars sold year on year. Jameel Motors’ commitment includes creating jobs and developing local dealerships, contributing to the economic growth of the country.

Jameel Motors will initially focus on the distribution of CHANGAN and DEEPAL products. CHANGAN offers sedans, SUVs and pickup combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, while DEEPAL focuses on NEVs. Both DEEPAL and CHANGAN vehicles are ideal for South Africa's diverse terrain and road conditions. Building on its strong track record, Jameel Motors is well positioned to meet local customer preferences. Vehicles are planned to be available for purchase in Q4 2025.

Jasmmine Wong , CEO – Mobility, Abdul Latif Jameel stated: “We are thrilled to announce Jameel Motors’ market entry to South Africa, especially as we do so with Changan Automobile, a forward-thinking automotive player with exceptional products. We are looking forward to driving long-term growth in the market and empowering drivers across South Africa with expanded and superior personal mobility choices.”

XIAO Feng General Manager, Changan Automobile Middle East and Africa Business Unit stated: "This is a new milestone for our business in South Africa. Changan Automobile, as a leading Chinese automotive company, has been committed to building a world-class automotive brand. We are confident that, through the strategic cooperation with Jameel Motors, we will be a key player in the South African market."

Changan Automobile Launches CHANGAN, DEEPAL, and AVATR in Europe, Ushering in a New Era of EVs

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 18:59:00 GMT

MAINZ, GERMANY, March 21, 2025:

Changan Automobile ("ChangAn" or "the Company"), an intelligent low-carbon mobility technology company, officially launched its three major brands, CHANGAN, DEEPAL, and AVATR, in Europe at its brand launch event, themed "Sharing the Future," in Germany. This milestone marks a new phase in ChangAn's Vast Ocean Plan, reinforcing its commitment to technological innovation and sustainability. With a fully integrated European ecosystem spanning research, production, supply chain, sales, and operations, ChangAn is deepening its connection with European consumers by investing in local talent, collaborating with regional partners, and driving the future of intelligent and sustainable mobility.

At the event, ChangAn showcased the DEEPAL S07, marking its European debut, alongside the CHANGAN E07, and DEEPAL S05, with their market launches planned for a later stage. Highlighting cutting-edge technologies in intelligence and electrification, ChangAn is meeting European demand for high-performance electric vehicles.

Changan's technological innovation is recognized globally, driven by a global collaborative R&D system spanning ten locations in six countries. It boasts over 18,000 R&D personnel from 31 countries and regions, with 16 technology research and product development centers, 17 technology companies, and 180 laboratories (including national-level laboratories), positioning it as a key player in the European EV market.

As part of its European launch, ChangAn is adopting a structured market entry strategy, initially focusing on key EV markets such as Norway, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK. By 2028, the Company plans to establish a presence across all major European markets. The European headquarters, located in the Netherlands, will serve as the central hub for business operations. The sales companies' headquarters has been set up in Munich, Germany. With around 500 professionals currently employed across Europe, including experienced designers and engineers from Italy and the UK, the Company is committed to expanding its local talent pool to drive innovation and deepen market engagement.

"It is great to be here in Germany," stated Zhu Huarong, Chairman of Changan Automobile. "ChangAn is an open and collaborative company driven by a clear mission: to lead sustainable mobility and benefit human life."

"This year, we aim to achieve three million units in global sales, and one million will be electrified vehicles. By 2030, we aim to deliver five million vehicles a year, with three million being electrified. Together, we're driving innovation for a better future." Mr. Zhu continued.

Changan Automobile is accelerating its globalization, with technology-driven innovation, intelligent manufacturing and sustainable development at its core, and is committed to building a world-class auto brand. This European brand launch marks a significant step in Changan's global presence and signals the next stage of its global vision.