2024 was a ground-breaking year for Changan Automobile, marked by exceptional achievements and significant strides in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) market. With a record-breaking global sales figure of 2.68 million vehicles, Changan showcased its growing influence and commitment to providing high-quality mobility solutions worldwide. Particularly notable was its performance outside China, where international sales soared by 47%, contributing to a robust total of 530,000 units sold. The MEA region emerged as a focal point of this growth, with an impressive 51% year-on-year increase in sales, reaching 83,000 units.
Strengthening Presence in the MEA Region
Changan’s remarkable performance in the MEA region reflects its strategic focus on addressing the unique needs of this diverse and rapidly evolving market. With over 400,000 users in the Middle East alone, the company has firmly established itself as a trusted automotive brand. This success is underpinned by a multi-faceted approach that includes diversifying its product portfolio, enhancing its service network, and fostering strong partnerships with local stakeholders.
Expanding Brand Ecosystem: CHANGAN, DEEPAL, and AVATR
In 2024, Changan continued to redefine mobility in the MEA region through its three distinct brands:
- CHANGAN: Combining practicality and style, Changan vehicles are known for their reliability and appeal to a broad customer base.
- DEEPAL: An innovative digital new energy brand targeting young, tech-savvy consumers with cutting-edge electric vehicles (EVs) and connected technologies.
- AVATR: A premium brand offering high-end EVs that blend luxury, performance, and intelligent driving capabilities.
This diversified portfolio caters to various customer segments, ensuring Changan remains a key player in the region’s automotive market.
Game-Changing Models for the MEA Market
Changan’s 2024 success was further driven by the launch of several innovative models tailored to the MEA region:
- Eado Plus: A sleek and efficient sedan introduced in the GCC market, offering a blend of style and practicality.
- KAICHEN Hunter: A robust pick-up designed for the rugged terrains of Iraq, catering to commercial and personal use.
- DEEPAL S07: A cutting-edge EV showcased at the inaugural Mobility Live ME event, capturing the attention of young tech enthusiasts.
- UNI-S and UNI-V 2.0T: High-performance models launched in Saudi Arabia, featuring advanced technologies and distinctive designs aimed at younger consumers.
These models highlight Changan’s commitment to delivering products that resonate with the needs and preferences of local customers.
Unveiling the Future: Exclusive Showcases
Changan made a lasting impression in the MEA region with its “Leading the Future” event held in Riyadh. This exclusive showcase marked the regional debut of the DEEPAL and AVATR brands and introduced the award-winning CHANGAN E07. These presentations not only reinforced Changan’s position as an industry pioneer but also emphasized its dedication to intelligent and sustainable mobility solutions.
Awards and Recognition
Changan’s efforts did not go unnoticed. The brand’s innovative and high-quality vehicles earned numerous accolades in the MEA region, including:
- UNI-S: Named “Best Mid-Size SUV” at the 2024 Saudi Arabia National Auto Awards.
- UNI-K: Secured dual honours in Oman as “Best SUV of the Year” and “Feature-Rich SUV of the Year."
These awards underscore Changan’s ability to consistently deliver vehicles that combine style, functionality, and advanced technology.
Elevating Service Standards
Beyond producing exceptional vehicles, Changan is committed to providing unparalleled sales and after-sales services across the MEA region. In 2024, the company:
- Opened the Dora Sales and Service Complex in Baghdad, a 39,000-square-meter facility featuring a large exhibition area and a state-of-the-art spare parts warehouse.
- Launched the Middle East Parts Distribution Center in Dubai, enhancing logistics efficiency and ensuring timely parts distribution to key markets.
- Hosted the Middle East and Africa Skills Competition, showcasing technical excellence and elevating the after-sales service standards in the region.
Looking Ahead: Innovation and Sustainability
As Changan enters 2025, it remains steadfast in its mission to drive intelligent, low-carbon mobility solutions through its “Vast Ocean Plan.” Guided by its core strategy of "Innovation-Driven, Global Breakthrough," the company plans to introduce more advanced vehicle models, expand its service networks, and enhance user experiences with connected and sustainable technologies.
Conclusion
Changan’s exceptional 2024 performance in the MEA region is a testament to its innovative approach, customer-centric focus, and commitment to sustainability. By continually pushing the boundaries of automotive excellence, Changan is not only meeting the evolving needs of the Middle East and Africa but also setting new benchmarks for the global automotive industry. With its eyes set on the future, Changan is poised to lead the way in intelligent and eco-friendly mobility solutions for years to come.
About Changan Automobile
With its CHANGAN, DEEPAL and AVATR, Changan Automobile is one of the “Big Four” Chinese automakers. It has 22 production facilities in 12 production bases around the world. It’s global R&D network connects 10 cities in six countries (Chongqing, Beijing, Shanghai, Dingzhou and Hefei in China, Turin in Italy, Yokohama in Japan, Birmingham in the UK, Detroit in the US, and Munich in Germany), and brings together the talents of more than 18,000 engineers from 31 countries and regions. It has had a presence in the Middle East and Africa market since 1994, with cumulative sales of 400,000 units. To further expand its global footprint, in 2023 the company launched its Vast Ocean Plan. With a mission to “lead auto culture and benefit human life”, Changan is transforming itself into an intelligent, low-carbon mobility tech company that contributes to society and meets people’s needs for a better life.
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