Chinese Automaker Changan to Enter South Africa in 2025 with Saudi-Backed Expansion

The South African automotive market is about to welcome a new player. Changan Automobile, one of China’s top four automakers, is entering the country in 2025 through a strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Jameel Motors.

With a presence in over 70 countries and 2.7 million units sold in 2024 alone, Changan is known for its commitment to safety, innovation, and advanced technology. The brand consistently ranks in J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study, making it a formidable competitor in the industry.

Jameel Motors, the company responsible for distributing Changan vehicles in South Africa, operates in 10 countries, including key markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Their entry into South Africa signifies a long-term investment in a market that saw over 500,000 new vehicle sales in 2024.

What to Expect from Changan in South Africa

Changan and its sub-brand, Deepal, will offer a range of vehicles tailored for the South African market, including:

• SUVs, sedans, and pickups with internal combustion engines (ICE) under the Changan brand

• New-energy vehicles (NEVs) such as electric and hybrid models under the Deepal brand

These vehicles are expected to be available for purchase by Q4 2025, catering to South Africa’s diverse terrain and road conditions.

Changan’s Impact on the South African Market

The entry of Changan adds to the growing influence of Asian car manufacturers in South Africa. Chinese brands such as Chery, GWM, and BAIC have already gained a strong foothold, with sales figures climbing steadily.

According to 2024 data from Naamsa and TransUnion, Chinese brands are competing with the country’s best-selling automakers. Chery became the sixth-best-selling brand in South Africa, with GWM following closely behind at seventh.

With Changan’s reputation for quality and affordability, it could soon become a key player in the local market, offering consumers more choices in an increasingly competitive industry.

A Commitment to Growth and Job Creation

Beyond expanding its vehicle lineup, Jameel Motors emphasized its commitment to job creation and local dealership development in South Africa.

“This is a new milestone for our business in South Africa,” said Xiao Feng, General Manager of Changan Automobile Middle East and Africa. “We are confident that through our strategic cooperation with Jameel Motors, we will be a key player in the South African market.”

Marinus Venter, Country Manager for Jameel Motors South Africa, echoed this sentiment:

“By leveraging Jameel Motors’ extensive experience and Changan Automobile’s focus on safety, quality, and technology, we can meet the diverse automotive demands of South African drivers.”

With Venter’s 18 years of experience leading automotive brands like Nissan and Mercedes-Benz Vans, Changan’s South African expansion is in capable hands.

Changan’s upcoming launch in Q4 2025 marks a significant shift in the South African automotive landscape. As demand for affordable, tech-driven vehicles grows, Changan and Deepal are well-positioned to capture a sizable market share.

Will Changan shake up the South African automotive industry like Chery and GWM did? Only time will tell.

Would you consider buying a Changan vehicle?

{Source BusinessTech}

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