Changan Confirms It’s Coming to Europe — And It’s Bringing an Entire EV Army

Europe’s automotive landscape is about to get even more crowded. Chinese automaker Changan Auto has officially confirmed that it is entering the European market — not cautiously, not experimentally, but with a full-scale, multi-brand offensive designed to challenge Europe’s biggest EV makers head-on.

Klaus Zyciora, Changan’s global design chief (and former VW Group design boss), revealed the company’s strategy: Changan will introduce multiple brands across Europe, not just one. This includes:

• Avatr — premium electric vehicles

• Nevo — mass-market EVs, crossovers, and SUVs

• Deepal — tech-heavy electric and range-extended (EREV) models

Zyciora says the company will “test the water with consumers,” but adds that “a lot of products are coming in the near future.” Considering how fast Chinese automakers operate, that likely means very soon.

Launching in 10 European Markets in 2024

Changan kicked off its European push earlier this year by announcing it would enter ten EU markets before the end of 2024. Their first export:

• Deepal S07, a sophisticated electric SUV

• Soon to be followed by the Deepal 05, arriving early 2025

But this is only the beginning. If European demand proves strong, Changan says it will add hybrid and plug-in hybrid models under the main Changan name. The company is even considering selling light commercial vehicles in Europe — a segment that urgently needs fresh, affordable competition.

Europe Debates EREVs — Changan Is Ready to Strike

A key wildcard in Europe’s EV transition is the emerging political discussion around EREVs (Extended Range Electric Vehicles) — EVs with a small gasoline generator that charges the battery but never powers the wheels.

German automakers and several European governments have asked Brussels to allow EREVs as part of the continent’s decarbonization strategy.

Changan’s response?

They already have the technology ready, across Deepal, Avatr, and Nevo brands.

If Europe gives EREVs the green light, Changan could unleash a flood of long-range, low-anxiety electric cars — a category European buyers may strongly embrace, especially in colder regions.

To Avoid EU Tariffs, Changan Will Build Cars in Europe

This is the biggest sign Changan is serious:
The company plans to build a manufacturing plant inside the European Union.

Why it matters:

• It avoids new EU tariffs on Chinese-made EVs

• It builds trust with European consumers

• It signals long-term commitment to the market

• It positions Changan alongside local heavyweights, not just as an importer

Changan is essentially saying:
“We are here to stay — and we’re investing accordingly.”

Europe Is Becoming a Chinese EV Battleground

Changan now joins the fast-growing list of Chinese automakers expanding aggressively into Europe:

• BYD – now the world’s #1 EV maker

• Chery – Europe’s fastest-growing Chinese brand

• XPeng – laser-focused on premium tech

• Zeekr – Volvo’s luxury electric sister brand

With Changan entering the mix, European consumers will soon have more choice, better tech, and lower prices than ever before.

The question is whether European brands — already struggling with EV costs — can keep up.