Chinese automaker Changan is preparing a major entry into the European automotive market, aiming to introduce a wide range of electric vehicles across the continent within the next two years.
According to Klaus Zyciora, Changan's global design chief, the company’s strategy involves a multi-brand approach rather than focusing on a single nameplate. Key divisions such as Avatr and Nevo will offer a variety of models, from compact passenger cars to popular SUVs. Zyciora emphasized that Changan plans to "test the water with consumers" to determine which models are most competitive, promising "a lot of products coming in the near future."
Changan began its European sales initiative by announcing plans in March to enter ten markets this year. The Deepal S07 electric SUV has already launched, with a smaller model scheduled to arrive early next year.
Should demand prove strong, Changan is ready to introduce hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants under its main brand. The company is also exploring potential expansion beyond passenger cars, including light commercial vehicles for the European market.
An important aspect of Changan’s market readiness is its range extender (RE) technology. These vehicles combine electric propulsion with a small gasoline engine that operates only to recharge the battery, rather than driving the wheels directly. This technology has garnered interest from Europe’s automotive industry and the German government, who have urged the European Commission to permit range extenders during the transition to full electrification.
Changan confirmed that its Deepal, Avatr, and Nevo models are already equipped with this technology, positioning the company to quickly launch range-extended vehicles if regulatory approval is granted. This could alleviate buyer concerns about battery range while switching to electric driving.
Changan’s European expansion goes beyond vehicle imports. To avoid EU tariffs, the company intends to establish manufacturing facilities on the continent. Producing vehicles locally will not only bypass tariffs but also signal Changan’s serious long-term commitment to the market. This approach puts the Chinese automaker on equal footing with established European manufacturers and strengthens its competitive position against other imports.
Changan joins a growing list of Chinese automakers aggressively entering Europe, including BYD, Chery, XPeng, and Zeekr. This influx of competition will offer European consumers more options than ever. As Changan prepares its launch, competitive pricing will be key to capturing market share alongside its advanced technologies.
Source
