Chinese automaker Chongqing Changan Automobile Company Limited is expanding into Italy and Spain by launching two all-electric models, with plug-in hybrid versions set to debut locally next year.
Headquartered in Chongqing, Changan is part of China’s "second wave" of automakers entering the European market, following pioneers like BYD, China’s top-selling car brand, and Chery, the country’s leading auto exporter.
Currently, Changan has begun vehicle sales in eight European countries, including Germany, the UK, and Norway.
At a launch event held at the company’s design center in Rivoli near Turin, Giuseppe Grazioso, Changan’s Italian market advisor, announced that the brand will introduce two all-electric SUVs—the Deepal S05 and S07—in Italy, with starting prices of €39,990 (~$46,880) and €44,990, respectively.
Unlike Northern Europe, Southern Europe has historically shown lower adoption rates for pure EVs. However, Grazioso noted that Italian consumers are gradually shifting toward electric models.
Plug-in hybrid versions of the Deepal S05 and S07 are expected to launch in Italy in Q2 2025, with preparations underway for a potential release as early as late February or March next year.
Grazioso added that Changan has not yet disclosed its European sales target for 2025, noting that performance in Italy will largely depend on the hybrid models’ rollout timeline. Additionally, the compact SUV Q05 is slated to enter the Italian market by late 2026 or early 2027.
Klaus Zschoche, Vice President of Changan Automobile, stated, "Our commitment to the European market is unwavering, and we aim to win consumer trust through product quality."
Changan plans to introduce eight models in Europe within three years and establish a sales network of over 1,000 dealerships by 2030, backed by a €2 billion investment in regional market expansion.
Grazioso revealed that Italy alone will have around 100 dealerships.
As part of its European strategy, Changan is also considering selling light commercial vehicles in the region.
Comments