Changan, China’s fourth-largest automotive group, has officially entered the Maltese market through a partnership with FAPI Motors, launching its all-electric Deepal S07 SUV.
The move forms part of Changan’s wider European expansion strategy, as the group continues to establish a long-term presence across key markets in the region.
For Ethan Yin, Executive Vice General Manager of Changan Europe, the Maltese launch represents a strategically important step within that broader rollout.
“Malta is an important market for us,” Yin said ahead of the official launch. “We are excited to introduce Changan’s technology-driven vehicles here and to grow the brand’s presence alongside forward-thinking partners such as FAPI Motors.”
Founded more than four decades ago, Changan operates as a fully integrated automotive manufacturer, with 21 production bases and 76 plants worldwide.
In Europe, the group has moved quickly to establish a local footprint, setting up its European headquarters in Munich in 2025, alongside dedicated research and design centres in Germany and Italy. This localised approach underpins what the company describes as its “In Europe for Europe” strategy, aimed at ensuring products, services and operations are closely aligned with European market expectations.
The Maltese launch is anchored by the introduction of the Deepal S07, an all-electric fastback SUV positioned in the premium mid-size segment.
Measuring 4.7 metres in length, the Deepal S07 combines a coupe-inspired silhouette with practical SUV proportions. Exterior features include frameless doors, flush door handles, signature LED lighting and 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, giving the vehicle a distinctly modern profile.
Inside, the Deepal S07 places a strong emphasis on comfort, technology and sustainability. The cabin features electronically adjustable, heated and ventilated front seats, vegan leather upholstery and a panoramic glass roof with an electric sunshade. A 15.6-inch central infotainment display forms the focal point of the dashboard, supported by a 14-speaker audio system that includes integrated headrest speakers for the driver. Wireless smartphone charging and seamless smartphone connectivity further enhance everyday usability.
Technology plays a central role in the driving experience. The Deepal S07 is equipped with an augmented-reality head-up display, a driver monitoring system, an intelligent voice assistant with gesture control, and a 360-degree camera system featuring a transparent chassis view. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as mobile app-based remote vehicle control, are designed to integrate the car into the driver’s digital ecosystem.
Performance credentials underline Changan’s ambitions in electric mobility.
The Deepal S07 is powered by a rear-wheel-drive electric motor producing 160 kW, delivering acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds. The vehicle offers a driving range of up to 475 kilometres, while DC fast-charging capability allows the battery to be replenished from 30% to 80% in approximately 35 minutes. Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, providing up to 6 kW of output, enables the car to power external devices, adding further versatility.
For FAPI Motors, the introduction of Changan represents a strategic expansion of its automotive portfolio at a time when Malta’s mobility landscape is evolving rapidly.
“Changan represents the future of automotive mobility, combining intelligent technology, electrification and design excellence,” said Steven Sammut, Commercial Director of FAPI Motors.
“We are proud to be launching the brand in Malta with the all-new Deepal S07. This is just the beginning, with several additional models planned for introduction across 2026 and 2027.”
Changan’s ambitions in Europe are significant. The group expects global vehicle sales to rise from approximately 2.9 million units in 2025 to five million by 2030, with Europe playing a central role in that growth. By the end of the decade, Changan plans to operate around 1,000 sales and service locations across the continent, using a combination of national sales organisations and appointed partners to reflect the specific dynamics of individual markets.
As Changan advances its European expansion, Malta is being positioned as an important market within that regional strategy, offering strong regulatory alignment, increasing readiness for electric vehicles and a partner network capable of supporting long-term brand development.
“The message is clear. We are committed to delivering value-driven, technology-led mobility, not just as a product, but as a lasting presence across Europe,” concluded Yin.
