#China #Munich #Changan Automobile #DEEPAL #Vast Ocean Plan

ChangAn Automobile's Strategic Move in Europe

ChangAn Automobile, a pioneer in intelligent low-carbon mobility technology, has set its sights on expanding its global influence through strategic initiatives in Europe. Launched on March 21 in Germany, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of China-EU diplomatic relations, the company's new phase in its Vast Ocean Plan introduces its brands—CHANG-AN, DEEPAL, and AVATR—to European markets. This expansion not only marks a significant milestone for ChangAn but also underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and technological competitiveness.

The Vast Ocean Plan Journey

Since the inception of the Vast Ocean Plan in April 2023, ChangAn has been on an aggressive trajectory towards global growth. The plan has seen the company execute a series of brand launches across various regions, including Southeast Asia in November 2023 followed by launches in Latin America and the Middle East-Africa in mid-2024. The establishment of a German subsidiary in September 2024 was a crucial step in reinforcing its presence in Europe, particularly as it works within a global research and development framework to enhance its offerings and innovations.

ChangAn operates multiple production sites across China and the Asia-Pacific region, boasting an extensive RD network across ten countries with a specialized workforce of 18,000 experts. This extensive framework supports its goal of fostering international growth and collaboration, enabling the company to adapt swiftly to diverse automotive markets.

Remarkable Sales Growth

The efforts made under the Vast Ocean Plan have paid off remarkably, with ChangAn reporting overseas sales of 536,196 vehicles in 2024, reflecting a 49.6% year-over-year increase. Additionally, sales figures for January 2025 showed a promising upward trend, reaching 62,016 units—a 10% growth compared to the previous year.

Having entered the European market back in 2003, ChangAn has since established a European Design Center aimed at integrating global design trends and enhancing RD capabilities. With a robust system covering research, production, and sales, the company has gained significant brand trust while also meeting local market specifics through its innovation-driven technical centers across Europe.

Commitment to Sustainable Growth

As ChangAn navigates through 2025, the company continues to emphasize a long-term localization strategy aimed at sustainable growth and deeper integration into local markets. This European expansion allows ChangAn to meet stringent industry standards, which is critical to building consumer trust. The focus remains on enhancing local production efficiencies and introducing models tailored to regional preferences.

The commitment to safety is evident with the DEEPAL S07 achieving a five-star Euro NCAP rating in late 2023, showcasing the company’s dedication to quality and compliance with international safety standards. Furthermore, the organization has implemented the ISO 45001 Occupational Health and Safety Management System to ensure a safe work environment while strengthening its operational presence in Europe.

Zhu Huarong, Chairman of ChangAn Automobile, highlighted the company’s collaborative first approach, aiming to lead sustainable mobility and improve lives. By learning from Europe—a hub for innovation and home to leading automotive companies—ChangAn continues to seek partnerships that foster collaborative innovation and elevate the brand to a world-class standard in the automotive industry.

About ChangAn Automobile

ChangAn is not merely a car manufacturer; it’s an intelligent low-carbon mobility technology company. Equipped with an international design team comprised of over 915 experts from 31 countries, and a diverse brand portfolio that includes CHANG-AN, DEEPAL, AVATR, and joint ventures such as ChangAn Ford, ChangAn Mazda, and JMC, the company exhibits a broad product spectrum, catering to various transportation needs.

Driven by technological innovation, ChangAn is poised to continue its journey towards becoming a world-renowned auto brand, committed to surpassing industry benchmarks in quality, safety, and sustainability.