Changan Takes Direct Control of Deepal in Australia

The Chinese automaker will assume local distribution duties from Inchcape in a transition concluding by early next year.

Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Automotive — General

A modern electric vehicle parked outside a minimalist glass and steel showroom in a bright, sunlit coastal Australian setting. — Changan will take over local distribution duties for its Deepal vehicle brand in Australia, ending its partnership with distributor Inchcape by March 2027. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Changan is set to take over the distribution of the Deepal vehicle brand in Australia, effectively ending a partnership with the distributor Inchcape. The transition period between the two companies will run from 21 October 2026 until 31 March 2027.

Why it matters

This change follows a strategic portfolio review by Inchcape aimed at aligning their operations with specific growth objectives. Changan intends to manage the shift with transparency for the existing dealer network and customers.

Deepal recorded 924 deliveries through September 2026, marking a significant increase over the 481 vehicles delivered throughout 2025. This volume remains behind other brands such as Geely, which saw 23,632 deliveries in the same period.

The players

Changan

Changan is a Chinese automotive manufacturer that is moving to assume factory-backed distribution responsibilities in the Australian market.

Inchcape

Inchcape is a global automotive distributor that has previously managed the Australian rollout of several vehicle brands including Deepal.

The details

Inchcape, which launched the Deepal brand in Australia in late 2024, will continue to manage the distribution of Subaru and Foton brands. The transition follows a pause in deliveries of the Deepal E07 model in March 2026 due to compliance issues.

Late 2024: Inchcape launched the Deepal brand in Australia.
March 2026: Deliveries of the Deepal E07 were paused due to a compliance issue.
21 October 2026: The transition period for the distribution change begins.
31 March 2027: The transition period for the distribution change concludes.

Roadmap

This transition reflects a broader trend of major Chinese automotive manufacturers seeking direct factory-backed control over their Australian distribution networks. By bringing operations in-house, Changan is positioning itself to better manage its regional rollout against established market rivals.

Customers can expect updates regarding their vehicle support and dealer access as the transition progresses through March 2027. The shift may eventually lead to an expanded lineup, including the upcoming S05 small SUV under the new factory-backed distribution structure.

The takeaway

This change in distribution strategy aims to consolidate Changan's presence in the competitive Australian market. Owners of existing Deepal vehicles should monitor official communications from the company as the transition period proceeds.

What happens next

Changan is scheduled to launch the Nevo and Avatr brands in Australia during 2027, with the Avatr 07L electric SUV expected in the first half of the year.