Changan Strengthens Global Strategy with South African Focus

Changan has set its sights firmly on becoming one of the world’s leading automotive brands by 2030, unveiling its ambitious “1+4+4+5” global strategy.

While the plan reflects a broad international vision, its implications for South Africa are particularly significant, underscoring the company’s long-term commitment to the local market.

At the heart of the strategy lies a revenue target of RMB600 billion and overseas sales of 1.5 million vehicles. Changan’s approach is anchored in electrification, intelligent mobility and international expansion, supported by six major transformations ranging from greener powertrains to advanced vehicle intelligence. These initiatives aim to deliver safer, more efficient and practical vehicles, enhancing customer experience across diverse markets.

South Africa features prominently in Changan’s localisation efforts. Through its Vast Ocean Plan, the company is prioritising integration with local networks, strengthening dealer presence, improving parts availability and ensuring a more responsive ownership journey.

Complementing this, Changan’s Green Plan advances new energy vehicle technologies while embedding sustainability across design, manufacturing and recycling. Its Intelligent Plan accelerates smart mobility solutions, with a focus on safety and user experience.

The scale of Changan’s operations underpins its ambitions. In 2025, the company sold nearly 2.9 million vehicles, including more than 1.1 million new energy models. With operations spanning 118 countries, 22 overseas manufacturing facilities and over 1 100 sales outlets, Changan’s global reach is reinforced by a research and development team of 24 000 specialists driving innovation.

Chairman Zhu Huarong emphasised collaboration and shared prosperity at the launch, noting that each transformation creates conditions for new world-class enterprises. His words reflect Changan’s intent to deliver not only innovative vehicles but also a credible and trustworthy brand experience in South Africa and beyond.