Changan has unveiled its ambitious “1+4+4+5” global strategy, signalling a determined push to become one of the world’s top ten automotive brands by 2030.
Central to this plan is a revenue target of RMB600 billion and overseas sales of 1.5 million vehicles. While the announcement reflects a global ambition, its significance for South Africa is particularly striking, as the company reinforces its long-term commitment to the local market.
The strategy is built on electrification, intelligent mobility and international expansion. Changan has outlined six major transformations, including advances in vehicle intelligence, greener powertrains, and a broader mobility ecosystem.
These shifts are designed to deliver safer, more efficient and practical vehicles, while also strengthening customer experience, Changan claims.
South Africa features prominently in Changan’s localisation efforts. The company’s Vast Ocean Plan emphasises global expansion through local integration, ensuring stronger dealer networks, improved parts availability and a more responsive ownership journey.
Changan’s Green Plan and Intelligent Plan further highlight its direction. The former advances new energy vehicle technologies while embedding sustainability across design, manufacturing and recycling. The latter accelerates smart mobility solutions, focusing on safety and user experience.
The company’s global scale underpins its ambitions. In 2025, Changan sold nearly 2.9 million vehicles, including more than 1.1 million new energy models. Its operations span 118 countries, supported by 22 overseas manufacturing facilities and over 1 100 sales outlets. A global R&D team of 24 000 specialists continues to drive innovation.
At the launch, Chairman Zhu Huarong emphasised collaboration and shared prosperity, noting that every transformation creates conditions for new world-class enterprises. His words underline Changan’s intent to deliver not only innovative vehicles but also a credible and trustworthy brand experience
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Young South African motorists are increasingly opting for more affordable and practical vehicles as the cost of living puts pressure on household budgets, while still maintaining comprehensive insurance cover.
The row over BMW’s Spider-Man promotion is not really about superheroes. It is about trust, control and the creeping feeling that modern cars are becoming digital platforms first and private possessions second.
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I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
Young South African motorists are increasingly opting for more affordable and practical vehicles as the cost of living puts pressure on household budgets, while still maintaining comprehensive insurance cover.
The row over BMW’s Spider-Man promotion is not really about superheroes. It is about trust, control and the creeping feeling that modern cars are becoming digital platforms first and private possessions second.
With forecasts of snow, icy rain and stormy weather across the country, motorists are urged to drive carefully and adapt their driving style to suit the conditions.
