Changan Launches New NEVO Brand in Thailand, May Expand to Malaysia Later

Changan Automobile, a major Chinese automotive conglomerate, is ramping up its presence in Southeast Asia and is expected to bring its newly launched NEVO brand to Malaysia later this year. The introduction of NEVO, alongside its existing brand Deepal, forms part of Changan’s multi-brand strategy to cater to different segments of Malaysia’s growing new energy vehicle (NEV) market, ensuring no overlap between the two brands while maximizing market coverage.

For Malaysian car buyers, understanding the distinction between Deepal and NEVO is key: Deepal targets younger consumers with its sleek, modern designs and advanced digital features, while NEVO is positioned as a family-focused brand under the concept of “The Smart Mobility Home,” prioritizing comfort, safety, reliability and value for the mass-market family segment. Both brands will cover a competitive price range that is expected to be adjusted for the Malaysian market, following their current THB 400,000 to THB 1,400,000 (approximately RM 53,000 to RM 186,000) range in Thailand.

NEVO specializes in range extender electric vehicles (REEVs), where the internal combustion engine acts solely as a generator to charge the battery—eliminating range anxiety, a common concern among Malaysian EV buyers. The brand’s core values revolve around People-Centricity, Innovation, Openness, and Inclusiveness, aligning with the practical needs of Malaysian families who often seek reliable, cost-effective vehicles for daily commutes and weekend getaways.

Changan is also expanding its product lineup to suit Malaysian preferences, with key models likely to arrive in the country including the Changan Lumin, an affordable entry-level EV ideal for urban commuters and as a second family car; the Deepal S05 and S07 SUVs, with the S05 set to be a volume seller and the S07 targeting the mid-to-high-end segment; and the Nevo Q05, a compact family SUV slated to lead NEVO’s launch in Malaysia in 2026. The Nevo Q05, a REEV compact SUV, comes with a 120kW electric motor, CATL lithium iron phosphate battery, and offers CLTC pure electric range options of 405km and 506km, with a 0.25-hour fast charging time (30%-80%)—perfect for Malaysia’s road conditions. It features a 5-door, 5-seat layout with a wheelbase of 2,735mm, providing ample space for families, and a 540-1380L boot capacity for luggage or groceries.

Looking ahead, Changan plans to launch two more SUV models in Malaysia by 2027, supported by regular over-the-air (OTA) software updates to keep vehicles up-to-date.  The company is also working to strengthen its dealer network in Malaysia, similar to its expansion in Thailand, to ensure easy access to sales and after-sales services for local customers.

Notably, Deepal, Changan’s other NEV brand, is already set to be distributed in Malaysia by Bermaz Auto, with models like the S05 and S07 expected to launch locally—these models are available in both battery electric vehicle (BEV) and REEV configurations, though BEVs may be prioritized due to Malaysia’s tax exemptions for electric vehicles. With the addition of NEVO, Changan aims to offer a comprehensive range of NEVs to cater to diverse Malaysian needs, from young professionals to large families.