Chinese automaker Changan Automobile is expanding its European footprint with the launch of two fully electric SUV models in Italy and Spain, with plug-in hybrid versions due to follow in 2026, company executives said.
Chongqing-based Changan, part of a second wave of Chinese carmakers entering Europe after early movers such as BYD and Chery, has already begun selling vehicles in eight European markets, including Germany, Britain and Norway.
In Italy, Changan will offer electric versions of its Deepal S05 and S07 sport utility vehicles, priced from 39,990 euros ($46,880) and 44,990 euros respectively, Giuseppe Graziuso, Changan’s adviser for Italy, said at a presentation held at the group’s design centre in Rivoli near Turin.
While demand for fully electric vehicles has lagged in southern Europe compared with northern markets, Graziuso said consumer sentiment is starting to shift. “Italian clients are beginning to move towards EVs,” he said, adding that plug-in hybrid versions of the Deepal S05 and S07 are expected to arrive in Italy in the second quarter of next year, potentially as early as February or March.
Changan has not set formal European sales targets, Graziuso said, noting that performance in markets such as Italy will depend heavily on the timing of hybrid launches. He added that a smaller Q05 SUV could be introduced in Italy around late 2026 or early 2027.
The company plans to roll out eight models across Europe over the next three years and is investing about 2 billion euros in the region. It aims to establish a dealer network of more than 1,000 outlets by 2030, with around 100 dealers planned in Italy alone. “We are here to stay, to convince customers about the quality of our products,” said Changan Vice President Klaus Zyciora.
As part of its broader European strategy, Changan is also considering introducing light commercial vehicles to the continent.
