Another Chinese brand is about to make a re-entry to the local market – this time it is Changan Automobile that will be distributed through Jameel Motors, which has entered a distribution agreement with Changan to introduce a range of vehicles, including SUVs, sedans, pickup, and new energy vehicles (NEVs).
The deal signals Jameel Motors’ first foray into the South African market, leveraging the country’s position as Africa’s largest automotive hub, where some 500 000 new vehicles were sold in 2024.
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The partnership will see Jameel Motors distribute Changan’s combustion-engine models and its NEV-focused sub-brand, Deepal, with sales set to begin in late 2025. The move aligns with South Africa’s rising demand for competitively priced, tech-forward vehicles, underscored by an 18,3% year-on-year growth in passenger car sales in January 2025.
Changan Automobile, among China’s top automotive manufacturers, has gradually increased its African footprint in recent years. While the brand has previously supplied vehicles to the region through smaller-scale imports, this collaboration marks its most concerted effort to date to secure a foothold in South Africa’s competitive market.
The company, which operates in 70 countries and sold 2,7-million units globally in 2024, has prioritised Africa as a key growth region, supported by its research centres in six nations.
Jasmmine Wong, CEO of Mobility at Abdul Latif Jameel, highlighted the partnership’s potential: “South Africa’s dynamic market demands diverse mobility solutions. Aligning with Changan, known for its emphasis on safety and innovation, allows us to cater to these evolving needs effectively.”
Xiao Feng, Changan’s General Manager for Middle East and Africa, added: “This partnership accelerates our strategy to deliver accessible, high-quality vehicles tailored to South Africa’s varied terrain and consumer preferences.”
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Heading Jameel Motors’ South African operations is Marinus Venter, an industry veteran with nearly two decades of experience steering brands like Nissan and Mercedes-Benz Vans. Venter emphasised the venture’s customer-centric approach:
“By combining Jameel’s distribution expertise with Changan’s technological strengths, we aim to offer reliable choices for South African drivers, from urban commuters to adventure-seeking families.”
Changan’s global reputation for innovation is bolstered by its 18 000-strong engineering workforce and consistent recognition in J.D. Power’s Initial Quality Study since 2018. Its designs, including Red Dot Award-winning models, align with South Africa’s demand for durable, stylish vehicles.
Jameel Motors, active in over 10 countries, continues to broaden its international reach, with this agreement reinforcing its role in shaping future mobility trends. The company’s South African launch will be closely watched as it navigates a market poised for growth amid increasing interest in NEVs and robust ICE vehicles.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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