Changan: Driven to Evolve and Here to Stay Company News Headlines Local Industry by Tristan Wiggill - December 8, 2025 Changan’s arrival in South Africa isn’t a brief appearance – it’s a long-term commitment built on more than 160 years of automotive heritage. As one of China’s oldest and most respected automakers, trusted by over 26 million customers in 75 countries, Changan brings a global legacy of engineering excellence and reliability to South African roads. In addition, Jameel Motors, a leading provider of mobility solutions and partner of choice to top automotive brands, serves as the official distributor of Changan in South Africa, bringing further credibility and a proven track record, to the local South African market. Together, they’ve established the foundations of a lasting presence – from infrastructure and dealer training to aftersales and customer support – ensuring the brand is built for longevity, not just launch. Proven Reliability, Trusted Worldwide What sets Changan apart from other newcomers is experience. The brand ranks consistently high in J.D. Power quality and dependability studies, proving its reliability year after year. Every vehicle is designed and tested through state-backed R&D centres, with cutting-edge technology, quality assurance systems, and safety protocols that meet and exceed international standards. The result is a brand that delivers premium quality without premium pricing, offering South Africans advanced vehicles that are as safe and dependable as they are sophisticated. A Dealer Network Designed Around You Changan’s launch network begins with 25 fully trained dealerships across South Africa – each offering sales, service, and genuine parts under one roof. Every dealership is equipped with factory-trained technicians and dedicated customer support, ensuring a seamless ownership experience. Behind the scenes, a 7 500 m² national parts and distribution warehouse in Pomona keeps supply chains moving, guaranteeing fast and efficient parts access nationwide. This infrastructure ensures that South Africans can count on Changan not just for innovation, but for long-term support and reliability too. Changan Journey: Confidence in Every Kilometre Owning a Changan means more than driving an exceptional vehicle – it means being backed by Changan Journey, a complete aftersales ecosystem built around customer peace of mind. From comprehensive warranties to service and maintenance plans, 24-hour roadside assistance, and world class technical expertise, Changan Journey ensures every journey continues as smoothly as the first. It’s proof that Changan’s promise doesn’t end at purchase – it evolves with every kilometre. Built for South Africa, Backed by Global Resources Each model, from the Alsvin sedan and CS75 Pro SUV to the Hunter Diesel, Hunter K50 REEV, and Deepal S07 EV – to the additional models entering the lineup on 2026 – the UNI-S and Deepal SO5, all Changan’s entire lineup has been calibrated for South African conditions – are all optimized for local fuel quality, road surfaces and climate. The plan for model expansion is driven by Changan’s ‘Vast Ocean Plan.’ It’s more than a growth strategy – it’s a highly ambitious global statement of intent. With more than US$10 billion earmarked for overseas markets, plans for 5 million annual vehicle sales and a manufacturing footprint spanning more than 20 plants worldwide, Changan is powering the ambition to become the benchmark in world-class automotive brands, by 2030. Crucially for South Africa, the Vast Ocean Plan underscores Changan’s commitment to localisation: high-quality vehicles built for local conditions, backed by manufacturing and service networks aligned with key global markets, with the added benefit of critical job creation in the local economy. Driving a Sustainable Future Changan invests billions annually in electric and hybrid vehicle R&D, leading China’s transition to sustainable mobility. The launch of Hunter REEV and Deepal S07 marks the beginning of this journey for South Africa – bringing accessible, eco-friendly innovation to local drivers who want performance without compromise. Every model in the range meets or exceeds global emissions standards, ensuring that Changan’s growth aligns with the future of cleaner, smarter motoring. Driven to Evolve. Here to Stay. Changan’s story connects past and future – a heritage of excellence powering continuous innovation, reinforced by meaningful local investment and a customer experience built on care; all guided by a bold vision for the future of mobility. It stands to reason then, that Driven to Evolve isn’t just a tagline – it’s a philosophy. It means continuous progress, from a formidable long-term partner that’s here for all South Africans, and undeniably here to stay.