Changan arrives in Italy: the new Chinese brand accelerating its European expansion

The historic Asian manufacturer launches its Italian adventure with the Deepal S05 and S07 electric SUVs, designed in Europe and aimed at competing head-on in the premium market.

Changan is officially beginning its expansion in Italy, a strategic move that underlines the Chinese group’s European ambitions. Changan enters the Italian market with a range of electric SUVs developed specifically for Europe, even though the name may be new to many drivers. Founded in 1862, the company boasts a century-long industrial history and is now China’s fourth-largest manufacturer by volume, with more than 30 million vehicles produced and a commercial presence in 103 countries.

The strength of the project is built on a powerful global research and development network, with more than 18,000 engineers spread across China, the United States and Europe. Within this structure, Italy plays a central role thanks to the Rivoli design centre, active since 2003. This creative hub, home to more than 300 designers from 31 countries, is responsible for translating the brand’s DNA into a language aligned with European tastes–an approach reminiscent of how leading manufacturers transfer know-how from Formula 1 to their road cars.

After launching sales in Germany in March 2025, Changan is already operating in eight European markets and is preparing its commercial arrival in Italy in 2026, backed by an ambitious growth plan. The declared goal is to establish 1,000 retail points across Europe by 2030, supported by a total investment of €2 billion. In Italy, the brand will rely on around 100 dealerships and several urban showrooms, complemented by a spare parts warehouse in Verona capable of ensuring 48-hour deliveries nationwide. Warranty coverage–up to 7 years for the vehicle and 8 years for the battery–sits at the top end of the market.

Launch models: Deepal S05 and S07

The initial product offensive focuses on the Deepal S05 and S07 electric SUVs, both designed in Rivoli and adapted for European customers with more than 150 specific development changes. The Deepal S07, measuring 4.75 metres in length, competes in the D segment and delivers 218 hp, up to 475 km of range and a price of €44,990, with an almost all-inclusive equipment specification and a five-star Euro NCAP rating thanks to Level 2 ADAS and battery management systems developed in collaboration with CATL.

Alongside it, the Deepal S05, slightly more compact at 4.60 metres long, broadens the lineup with rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions. It offers outputs of 272 hp and up to 435 hp, ranges of up to 485 km and prices starting at €36,990. Standout features include a 15.4-inch rotating central display and ultra-fast charging of up to 200 kW. The arrival of plug-in hybrid variants in 2026 will be a crucial step for the Italian market, traditionally more cautious towards pure electric vehicles–a scenario that could well be mirrored in Spain in the coming years.