Matatingan Changes Big Steps In Europe, Ready To Attack With Avatr, Nevo, And Deepal Brands

Changan Deepal S07. (Photo: Indra/VOI)

JAKARTA - The European auto market is getting hotter and the competition is getting hotter with the presence of Changan Auto. The Chinese manufacturer is preparing massive expansion steps with a row of new electric cars in the next two years.

The strategy was confirmed by the Head of Changan Global Design Klaus Zyciora, who explained that the company carries a multi-brand approach. When many manufacturers survive with one brand identity, Changan actually strengthens its position through a number of special divisions.

Among them are Avatr which focuses on premium electric vehicles, as well as Nevo which offers a wider product line, from small passenger cars to SUVs. Zyciora said Changan would test the market with consumers determining the most competitive model.

However, he ensured that many new products had been prepared and were soon present. This expansion step was confirmed through an announcement last March, when Changan said it would enter ten European markets at once this year.

The Deepal S07 electric SUV has already launched, followed by a smaller model, Deepal 05 EV, which is scheduled to arrive early next year. If market interest is strong enough, Changan is also ready to carry hybrid and plug-in hybrid models under the company's main brand.

They even considered the opportunity to expand their business to the light commercial vehicle segment in Europe, as reported by Arena EV, Tuesday, December 9. Issues about long-distance electric vehicles or extended-range EVs (EREVs) are also part of Changan's strategy.

This technology relies on small gasoline engines as generators to charge batteries, not to move wheels. In Europe, discussions on EREV legality are still ongoing, following the demand of the automotive industry and the German government for the European Commission to approve the technology during the transition period to full electrification.

Changan emphasized that the EREV technology for Deepal, Avatr, and Nevo lines is ready. If regulators agree, Changan can immediately release these models, offering solutions for consumers who want to switch to electric vehicles without worrying about distance.

Changan's expansion to Europe is not just pursuing sales volume. To avoid new EU rates, the company plans to build live production facilities on the continent.

This move not only avoids the burden of import costs, but also shows a long-term commitment to local markets, as well as strengthens their competitiveness. Changan is now joining a row of other Chinese manufacturers who are aggressively instilling influence in Europe.

Apart from BYD as the biggest player, there is also Chery and fast-growing electric vehicle manufacturers such as XPeng and Zeekr. Competition is getting tighter, and European consumers will have more electric vehicle options than ever before.