Deepal Automobile Technology Co., Ltd. or Shenlan Technology Co., Ltd. (Chinese: 深蓝汽车; pinyin: Shēnlán Qìchē; lit. ‘Deep Blue’) is a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer owned by Changan Automobile. The company specializes in the production of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs). Initially founded as Chongqing Changan New Energy Automobile Technology in 2018, Deepal became an independent brand in 2023.
| Website | deepal.com.cn |
|---|
History
Establishment and Early Years
In April 2008, Changan Automobile, in partnership with Chongqing Science and Technology Venture Capital Co., Ltd., established Changan New Energy Automobile Co., Ltd. The company focused on developing new energy vehicles and electric powertrain systems to support China’s transition to clean energy transportation.
On December 8, 2017, Changan Automobile consolidated its New Energy Division, integrating planning, vehicle development, powertrain system research, procurement, and sales under a single department. This move was part of Changan’s broader strategy to accelerate the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles.
Transition to an Independent Brand
Between January 2020 and March 2022, Changan New Energy and the New Energy Division of Changan Automobile were merged to form Changan New Energy Automobile Technology. During this period, 12 investors participated in two funding rounds, temporarily reducing Changan Automobile’s ownership from 100% to 40.66%.
The company introduced its first model, the SL03 (codenamed C385), under the newly established Changan Shenlan (Chinese: 长安深蓝; pinyin: Cháng’ān Shēnlán) brand.
By the end of 2022, Changan Automobile increased its stake in Changan New Energy from 40.66% to 51.00%, regaining majority control by acquiring a 10.34% stake from two shareholders.
Rebranding as Deepal
In 2023, the Changan Shenlan brand was officially rebranded as Deepal, and the company’s name was changed to Deepal Automobile Technology Co., Ltd. This restructuring allowed Deepal to operate as an independent entity within the Changan Group, focusing exclusively on electric mobility solutions.
Expansion into Global Markets
In November 2023, Deepal entered the Thai market, introducing two models: the L07 sedan and the S07 SUV, both imported from China. Changan Automobile is constructing a production facility in Thailand, with the first phase of manufacturing scheduled to begin in Q1 2025. This move aligns with the company’s expansion strategy into Southeast Asia and international markets.
Products
Deepal’s vehicles are built on the Changan EPA NEV platform, which is divided into EPA0, EPA1, and EPA2 categories. The company has planned to launch five initial models, including one model based on EPA0 and four models based on EPA1.
Current Models
- Deepal L07 (2022–present) – Mid-size sedan (BEV/EREV)
- Deepal S07 (2023–present) – Mid-size SUV (BEV/EREV)
- Deepal S05 (2024–present) – Compact SUV (BEV/EREV)
- Deepal S09 (upcoming) – Full-size SUV (BEV/EREV)
- Deepal G318 (2023–present) – Mid-size off-road SUV (BEV/EREV)
Export Models
- Deepal E07 (2024–present, export only) – Rebadged Changan Nevo E07, an electric pickup truck (BEV)
- Deepal P201 (2024–present, export only) – Rebadged Changan F70, an extended-range electric pickup truck (EREV)
Sales Performance
Deepal has experienced rapid growth since its introduction, with increasing sales volumes year over year:
| Year | Total Sales |
|---|---|
| 2022 | 33,354 |
| 2023 | 128,865 |
| 2024 | 243,894 |
Future Plans
Deepal aims to expand its global presence through localized production facilities and new model launches. With investments in smart manufacturing, AI-driven vehicle technologies, and battery innovation, the company seeks to compete with international EV brands while reinforcing its dominance in the Chinese and Southeast Asian markets.
