Chinese automaker Changan has officially entered the South African market, planning on opening 25 dealerships by year-end and targeting 20 more within two years.

The Chinese state-owned brand, which sells nearly 2.7 million vehicles a year globally, says it is positioning itself as a long-term player offering affordable, tech-forward cars.

Its arrival comes as buyers in South Africa increasingly turn to foreign newcomers. Recent results from Johannesburg Stock Exchange-listed Combined Motor Holdings, a major motor retailer,show that almost 50% of the company’s sales now come from Indian and Chinese manufacturers, underscoring a major shift in local demand.

Among Changan’s first models to be released in South Africa will be the Hunter REEV, the world’s first range-extending electric bakkie.

It pairs a 31.2kWh battery with a 2.0-litre generator for up to 145km of electric-only driving and around 1000km total range, without giving up towing muscle or off-road capability. Pricing will be announced in November.