CLOSE to 300 local and international guests descended at the luxurious Sun City resort, in the North West province for the launch of Chinese state-owned automaker Changan.
Set to be distributed through Jameel Motors SA, the launch unveiled Changan portfolio that includes the Alsvin sedan, CS75 Pro SUV, Hunter Turbo Diesel, Hunter Range Extending Electric Vehicle (REEV), and Deepal S07 EV, blending petrol, hybrid, and electric options to cater for different markets.
Addressing guests in the evening, the jubilant Marinus Venter, country manager for Jameel Motors SA, said this is the opportune timing.
“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.”
The company that was founded 1862, but only began manufacturing vehicles since 1959, plans to establish 45 dealerships and create up to 600 jobs by 2027 in mzansi.
Xiao Feng, general manager of Changan Automobile Middle East and Africa, spoke about the partnership with Jameel Motors, and opined: ”The future of mobility belongs to those who dare to imagine, who innovate, and who collaborate.”
In the growing EV segment, Changan in 2026, plans to hit 10, 000 annual sales by 2028 as per projection.
From 2007 until 2013, it sold its vehicles under the banner of brand Chana, in SA.
At the moment, Changan is seen as one of the big four car groups in China with 14 manufacturing bases and 34 plants worldwide.
“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,” continued Venter.
Changan, with over 160 years of history and a global output of 3 million vehicles annually, will initially import from China but may explore local assembly if market conditions align, Venter indicated.
Image Mdu Mphahlele (The latest Changan brand unveiled at Sun City, North West province, recently).
