The long-established Chinese car manufacturer Changan has officially entered the South African market with a spectacular launch event held at Sun City’s Superbowl over the weekend. The brand, which will be distributed locally by Jameel Motors, also inaugurated its flagship dealership, bringing the total number of Changan outlets in the country to 25.
A Legacy of Innovation
Changan is a historic player in the automotive industry, with roots dating back to 1862, although vehicle production began in 1959. This isn’t the brand’s first entry into South Africa — between 2007 and 2013, it sold vehicles under the Chana name.
Today, Changan stands as one of China’s “big four” automakers, operating 14 manufacturing bases and 34 plants worldwide.
A Grand-Scale Launch
The inaugural event featured a brand exhibition and gala dinner, attended by more than 300 guests, including media representatives, fleet operators, and dealership partners.
Marinus Venter, General Manager of Jameel Motors South Africa, emphasized the brand’s ambition:
“Changan is not here to be just another name in the market. We’re here to set a new benchmark where quality, technology, and reliability meet real value.”
Xiao Feng, General Manager of Changan Automobile for the Middle East and Africa, highlighted the importance of collaboration with Jameel Motors, stating:
“The future of mobility belongs to those who dare to imagine, innovate, and collaborate.”
The Highlight: Hunter Reev Pickup
The centerpiece of the event was the unveiling of the Hunter Reev (Range Extender Electric Vehicle) — a double-cab pickup that brings a significant innovation to the South African market.
The Hunter Reev features a unique energy configuration: a petrol engine that acts as a generator to recharge the battery, which in turn powers the electric motor driving the vehicle. This setup, known as a range extender (Reev), helps to eliminate the anxiety associated with limited EV range. For customers who prefer traditional powertrains, a diesel version is also available.
Hunter Reev specifications include:
- Technology: 2.0L turbocharged petrol engine (as generator), two electric motors (one per axle), and a 31.2 kWh LFP battery pack
- Performance: 200 kW of power and 470 Nm of torque
- Range: 145 km of pure electric driving (CLTC) and up to 1,000 km of total range with the generator engaged
The Hunter double-cab sports a bold exterior design, particularly at the front, and its refined, car-like interior drew attention at the event.
Product Lineup and Future Expansion
Beyond the Hunter, Changan is already offering the Alsvin, CS75 Pro, and Deepal S07 models in South Africa. The lineup will further expand in 2026 with the arrival of the Changan Uni-S and Deepal S05 Reev.
A Dedicated Dealership Network
The event concluded with the official opening of Changan’s flagship dealership in Pretoria. The brand confirmed that this facility is part of a nationwide network of 25 fully equipped dealerships, offering sales, aftersales services, and parts supply.
Venter reaffirmed Changan’s aftersales commitment:
“Customers will benefit from Changan Aftersales — a comprehensive support program including maintenance plans, extended warranties, 24-hour roadside assistance, and access to our national dealer network.”
The launch event was attended by government officials, industry leaders, and media representatives, including Musa Khumalo, Governance and Support Officer for the City of Tshwane, and Phindile Jonas, Deputy Director of Registration and Compliance, who both praised the significance of this new investment for the region.
