For over 150 years, a quiet revolution has been brewing in China. It began in 1862, during the Qing Dynasty, with a company that would become Changan – now one of the “Big 4” automakers in the nation. This isn’t simply a story of manufacturing; it’s a tale of ambition, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of the future of mobility.
Recently, a select group was invited to witness this transformation firsthand, embarking on the “Discover Changan” tour in Chongqing. The journey began at the Liangjiang Smart Factory, a sprawling complex where the future of automotive production is already a reality. Here, a mesmerizing ballet of robotics – stamping, welding, painting – seamlessly blends with the precision of human craftsmanship. A new car emerges from this process every 60 seconds.
Beyond the factory floor lies the Changan Global R&D Center, a staggering 66.7-hectare facility representing a $4.3-billion investment in innovation. This isn’t just a research center; it’s the nerve center of a global network spanning six countries and ten locations. The focus is clear: intelligent, low-carbon mobility, new energy vehicles, and the promise of autonomous driving.
Imagine 18,000 researchers, hailing from 31 nations, collaborating across a network that includes design studios in Italy and Japan, R&D hubs in the UK and the US, and operational centers in Germany. This global brain trust is developing the “SDA” smart platform, pioneering electric vehicle technology, and harnessing the power of artificial intelligence. Changan isn’t just building cars; they’re building an ecosystem.
The tour offered a glimpse of models poised to arrive in the Philippines, starting with the Changan Eado. This compact sedan isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about doing so with style, advanced technology, and a level of comfort that belies its class. A test drive revealed a responsive engine, a remarkably smooth ride, and an intuitive tech interface.
Equally impressive was the Changan CS55, the brand’s best-selling SUV. Powered by a turbocharged engine and boasting a finely-tuned chassis, the CS55 delivers a confident and engaging driving experience. It’s a vehicle designed to inspire trust and enjoyment, showcasing Changan’s commitment to performance and refinement.
But Changan’s vision extends far beyond traditional internal combustion engines. The tour unveiled Deepal, the company’s dedicated electric vehicle brand, and Avatr, its flagship luxury EV marque. Deepal models, like the S05 SUV, offer both battery-electric and range-extended powertrains, providing a compelling blend of performance and practicality.
Avatr, on the other hand, represents the pinnacle of Changan’s ambition. These are cutting-edge luxury EVs, boasting advanced connectivity, driver-assist technologies, and interiors that rival the best Europe has to offer. Experiencing these vehicles firsthand was a revelation – a testament to Changan’s ability to compete on a global stage.
The “Discover Changan” tour wasn’t merely a showcase of products; it was an immersion into a company undergoing a profound transformation. From efficient manufacturing to a diverse lineup encompassing ICE vehicles, EVs, and luxury models, Changan is strategically positioning itself for the future.
This isn’t just about expanding into new markets; it’s about redefining what it means to be a global automaker. Changan is focused on mastering both the art of efficient production and the science of creating vehicles that resonate with drivers worldwide, signaling a new era in smart mobility.
