by Ambitious Plans of a Chinese Automaker
The Chinese automotive brand Changan Automobile has announced large-scale growth plans, with the goal of entering the top five largest automakers in the world by 2030. The company aims to achieve an annual sales volume of 5 million vehicles, with a backup target of 4 million in case of difficult market conditions.
Achieving the main goal of 5 million vehicles would place Changan in fifth place in the world ranking based on 2025 results, surpassing giants such as Ford, Honda, and Nissan. The growth strategy is based on two key pillars: active expansion into foreign markets and rapid electrification of the model lineup.
The plan relies heavily on foreign markets, which barely know of the brand’s existence.
Electrification and Global Expansion
The company plans that by 2030, 60% of its total sales will be electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids. This aligns with the general trend in China, where transportation electrification is one of the priorities.
Plug-in hybrids and fully electric vehicles will account for 60 percent of this volume.
However, the main driver of growth is expected to be international sales. In 2025, Changan sold 638 thousand vehicles outside of China, and by 2030, it plans to increase this figure to 1.4-1.8 million units. This task is particularly ambitious, considering that the brand has not yet gained widespread global recognition.
Brand Portfolio and Competition
Changan owns and develops a whole range of its own brands specializing in different segments, especially electric vehicles.
Changan operates brands such as Nevo, Deepal, Volga, Avatr, and Kaicene.
But on the world stage, it will have to compete not only with Western manufacturers but also with other Chinese players who also have aggressive plans. For example, Geely, which has already entered the global top ten, is targeting 6.5 million sales by 2030. BYD, the leader in the electric vehicle market, will also not stop at what has been achieved.
Technologies of the Future
New technologies play an important role in Changan’s strategy. The company is preparing to launch fully electric sedans that will use sodium-ion batteries. This technology promises to be significantly cheaper than traditional lithium-ion batteries, which could open a new era of ultra-affordable electric vehicles not only in China but worldwide. Competitors, including Geely and BYD, are also actively working in this direction.
The implementation of such large-scale plans by Changan could significantly change the balance of power in the global automotive industry. Success will depend not only on technical innovations and attractive prices but also on the brand’s ability to build trust and recognition among consumers in Europe, Southeast Asia, and other key regions where Chinese manufacturers have not yet become mainstream. This expansion is likely to provoke increased protectionist sentiments in many countries, which could become a serious challenge for achieving the stated goals.
