Changan Confirms New Electrified Models for South Africa

The manufacturer revealed its expanded international portfolio, including the NEVO Q05, at the 2026 Paris Motor Show.

Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Car Types

A modern electric SUV parked in a bright, minimalist showroom, plugged into a sleek, floor-standing charging station.
Changan confirmed the upcoming South African arrival of its NEVO Q05, Q06, and Deepal S07 SUVs following their Paris Motor Show debut. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Changan has officially announced the upcoming South African arrival of its NEVO Q05, NEVO Q06, and the facelifted Deepal S07 SUV models. The announcement followed the debut of the company's broader electrified vehicle portfolio at the 2026 Paris Motor Show.

Why it matters

This rollout represents a key component of Changan's global strategy to bring advanced electrified vehicles and proprietary technologies into international markets. The expansion signals the brand's long-term commitment to scaling its footprint beyond its home base in China.

The NEVO Q05 has achieved the status of China's best-selling compact SUV for six consecutive months. The upcoming AVATR CONCEPT T09 delivers a combined system output of 630kW, utilising a 180kW 2.0-litre engine and two 225kW rear electric motors.

The players

Changan

A major Chinese automotive manufacturer that has operated internationally for 25 years and is aggressively expanding its electrified vehicle presence.

NEVO

An electric vehicle brand owned by Changan that has reached one million cumulative customer sales since its inception three years ago.

Deepal

A vehicle sub-brand under the Changan umbrella that specialises in electrified SUVs and recently launched in Munich.

The details

The NEVO Q06 crossover features an electrified powertrain capable of a 1,000km total range. Changan continues to grow its international infrastructure, with plans to increase its network to 650 sales and service outlets across 15 European countries by 2027.

Timeline

  1. March 2025: Changan launched its brands in Germany.

  2. September 2025: The Deepal brand officially debuted at the IAA Mobility show.

  3. 22 October 2026: Changan showcased its new vehicle portfolio at the Paris Motor Show.

  4. End of 2026: The company aims for 400 sales outlets across Europe.

  5. Third quarter 2027: The NEVO Q05 and Deepal S07 are scheduled to arrive in South Africa.

Roadmap

The 2026 Paris Motor Show serves as the industry-standard stage for global automakers to signal their expansion strategies, and Changan used this platform to anchor its new export programme. This move underscores a broader industry shift where Chinese manufacturers are rapidly positioning themselves as direct competitors to legacy European and global brands.

Local drivers can anticipate an expanded selection of hybrid and electric compact SUVs hitting the South African market in the third quarter of 2027. Buyers should prepare for potential changes in the competitive landscape as the introduction of these models may influence pricing across the local SUV segment.

The takeaway

Changan is prioritising the rapid global expansion of its electrified brands as it builds out its retail and service footprint. South African buyers should monitor future announcements regarding local dealership locations and service centre support as the brand's international strategy matures.

Further reading

Discover more about the latest vehicle releases in our Car Types section.

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