Master Changan Motors Accelerates Pakistan’s EV Adoption with Launch of DEEPAL

Master Changan Motors Limited (MCML), a joint venture between Master Group of Industries and Changan International, has taken a bold step toward revolutionizing Pakistan’s automotive industry with the launch of Changan’s electric-first brand, DEEPAL. The unveiling ceremony, held on August 16, 2024, at Dolmen Mall Clifton in Karachi, marked a significant milestone in the country’s journey toward mass adoption of electric vehicles (EVs).

A New Era of Electric Vehicles

The DEEPAL brand was introduced with two groundbreaking models: the L07, a pure electric sports luxury sedan, and the S07, a premium electric SUV. Both vehicles promise to deliver an exhilarating driving experience, with 250 horsepower and 320 Nm of instant torque, allowing them to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds. The advanced Ternary Lithium battery, developed by CATL, boasts a capacity of 66.8 kWh, offering an impressive range of up to 540 km for the L07 and 485 km for the S07.

These vehicles, designed at Changan’s R&D center in Italy, have already garnered international acclaim, winning the prestigious German RedDot design award in 2023. Their futuristic design language and cutting-edge technology make them a standout choice for consumers seeking both luxury and sustainability.

Affordable Luxury with a Green Edge

One of the most striking aspects of the DEEPAL launch is the pricing strategy. The indicative introductory price for these electric vehicles is comparable to that of traditional gasoline-powered and hybrid models. MCML is also offering a complimentary 7kW fast home charger with every purchase, enabling a full charge in just 5 to 8 hours. This move is aimed at making electric vehicles more accessible to a broader segment of the population, thereby accelerating the shift away from fossil fuels.

DEEPAL: A Collaborative Innovation

The name DEEPAL signifies “Deep Friendship,” reflecting the collaborative spirit behind the brand. It is the result of a joint partnership between three global giants: Changan, Huawei, and CATL. Changan, one of China’s largest and oldest automobile manufacturers, developed the EV-first EPA-01 platform. Huawei contributed its advanced Harmony OS intelligent software, powered by the Snapdragon 8155 processor, while CATL provided the Ternary Lithium battery, renowned for its 99% SOC accuracy, effectively eliminating range anxiety for drivers.

Economic and Environmental Impact

Pakistan’s energy mix is increasingly shifting toward non-fossil fuel sources, with 41% of the country’s energy now coming from renewable sources. Meanwhile, the nation’s oil import bill, which reached USD 15.16 billion, remains a significant burden on its foreign reserves. The mass adoption of EVs, particularly those charged using home-installed solar systems, could play a crucial role in reducing fuel imports and improving the country’s economic condition.

Despite the presence of over 2,000 electric vehicles in Pakistan, mass adoption has yet to take off. Danial Malik, a representative of MCML, identified four key challenges that need to be addressed: the introduction of the right EV products at competitive prices, the development of efficient batteries for long driving ranges, the establishment of a nationwide after-sales support network, and the expansion of charging infrastructure across 17 cities.

Tackling the Challenges Head-On

Master Changan Motors is committed to overcoming these challenges. The introduction of DEEPAL at a price comparable to older generation gasoline and hybrid models addresses the first challenge. The second challenge is met by offering best-in-class driving ranges of up to 540 km, sufficient to travel from Lahore to Islamabad on a single charge or to drive within a city for an entire week. To tackle the third challenge, MCML provides an industry-leading warranty of 8 years or 240,000 km and equips 23 Changan dealerships across 17 cities with the capability to support EVs. Finally, the fourth and most significant challenge is being addressed by expanding Pakistan’s national charging network from 5 cities to 17, with 23 new charging points planned.

Looking Ahead

Master Changan Motors is not stopping at just two models. The company plans to introduce three to four new locally assembled EV models over the next two years, further driving the mass adoption of electric vehicles in Pakistan. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and affordability, Master Changan Motors is poised to lead the way in transforming Pakistan’s automotive landscape, offering solutions that benefit both the environment and the economy.