New brand launching in SA this week

THE Changan brand is officially launching in South Africa later this week, with three strategically positioned models forming the initial lineup, and many more to follow.

- JASON WOOSEY

Changan is China's fourth-largest auto manufacturer, with around 2.7 million units sold last year in over 70 countries.

In South Africa, the brand will be distributed by Jameel Motors, with 25 dealers expected to be up-and-running at launch. The importer will use established partners to handle its vehicle and parts logistics, and a fully stocked parts warehouse has been set up in Gauteng, with nationwide deliveries taking place daily.

The initial lineup consists of the Alsvin compact sedan, CS75 Pro SUV and Hunter one-tonne bakkie, while the Deepal S07 electric crossover and Hunter range-extended bakkie are set to join the lineup in the near future. A pair of smaller SUVs, the CS655 and CS35, are scheduled to launch later in 2026, Jameel Motors SA country manager Marinus Venter told IOL.