China’s electric vehicle surge just took a high-voltage leap into Europe — and it’s not BYD or NIO leading the charge this time. Meet Deepal, the premium EV and hybrid sub-brand of automotive giant Changan, now making serious moves on European soil with the S07 and S05 SUVs.
From smart tech to sleek design and aggressive pricing (with a twist), Deepal’s strategy is clear: challenge Western dominance, especially Tesla, by offering high-performance alternatives at more accessible price points — at least back home. But in Europe? It’s a bit more complicated.
A Dual-Power Strategy: S07 Brings Options, Range, and Autonomy
The newly launched Deepal S07 isn’t just another EV with a pretty face. This mid-size SUV combines cutting-edge design, advanced driver assistance, and a choice of fully electric or extended-range electric (EREV) powertrains.
- EV Version: 272 hp, 342 miles (550 km) of range, 79.97 kWh fast-charging battery
- EREV Version: A 1.5L petrol range extender with electric motors offering up to 510 miles (820 km) total range and stellar 47.8 mpg efficiency
Both variants deliver a 0–60 mph time of around 7.5 seconds, ensuring they’re no slouches on the open road.
But where the S07 really sets itself apart is inside its brain: Huawei’s Qiankun ADS SE system powers a suite of autonomy features — from intelligent lane changes and high-speed navigation cruise to hands-free memory parking across 160+ scenarios.
Engineered in the UK, Designed in Italy: Deepal’s European Identity
Changan isn’t just shipping Chinese cars to Europe and hoping for the best. They’ve invested deeply in local expertise. The S07’s suspension was entirely reworked by a 100-engineer-strong UK team to handle British roads. Meanwhile, software tweaks ensure the ADAS system speaks the local driving language fluently.
Under the leadership of Nic Thomas, a former Nissan exec, Changan’s UK launch includes 20 dealerships right out of the gate, with plans to hit 100 across the region. And instead of building exclusive showrooms, the company is cleverly sharing floors with established dealers like Ancaster and Stoneacre — making Deepal an easier sell to curious walk-ins.
Sticker Shock: The Deepal S05’s Price Jump Sparks Debate
While the S07 sets the stage as the flagship, the slightly smaller Deepal S05 has quietly slid into the European market — and not without controversy.
- In China, the S05 starts at just €14,300.
- In Germany? Try €45,900.
So what changed? A cocktail of import duties, compliance costs, and logistics overhead has nearly tripled the price.
Still, for buyers willing to look past the markup, the S05 delivers real value:
- Standard Battery: 68.8 kWh
- Base Trim (RWD Pro): 268 hp, 301-mile range (485 km)
- AWD Max Trim: 429 hp, 276-mile range, 0–100 km/h in 5.5 sec
- Interior: Minimalist layout, 15.4” touchscreen, wireless charging, and premium leather touchpoints
It’s a handsome, tech-rich SUV that undercuts Tesla’s Model Y — at least on paper.
Global Vision: Deepal Eyes 100+ Markets
With presence already in Germany, Norway, the UK, and the Netherlands, Deepal has bigger plans. Changan’s goal is to expand into over 100 markets, including Southeast Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa.
Back home, they’re already the 4th largest automaker in China — and their global roadmap includes £10 billion in R&D investment, new factories, and even the possibility of local manufacturing in Europe if demand picks up.
More Than Just EVs: Strategy Built to Last
“We’re not chasing quick wins,” said Nic Thomas. “This isn’t about flooding the market — it’s about building something sustainable.”
That sustainability shows in their infrastructure investments: a UK parts warehouse, a partnership with CAP for resale value support, and Thatcham for insurance grading — all before a single car is handed over.
They’ve even prepped financing programs and dealer training to ensure a premium buying experience, not just a flashy product launch.
Final Thoughts: Can Deepal Break Through?
Changan’s Deepal brand brings brains, brawn, and budget consciousness — though with a Euro-sized price tag. The S07 combines serious range, local engineering finesse, and Huawei-backed driving tech. The S05, despite its pricing shock, offers robust performance and premium aesthetics in a sleek, city-friendly package.
But will that be enough to sway skeptical European buyers used to Volkswagen badges or Tesla logos?
If Deepal can balance price, perception, and performance, it might just become the next major Chinese brand to disrupt the European EV landscape.
For more information about the Changan’s Deepal, please visit their official website.
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Hey, I’m Badal! I’m super passionate about cars—especially electric ones. Whether it’s EVs, electric trucks, bikes, or anything with a battery and wheels, I’m all in. I love writing blogs and articles that break things down for fellow enthusiasts and curious readers alike. Hope you enjoy the ride as much as I do!
