Changan Unveils DEEPAL S05 REEV and UNI-S HEV at South Africa’s Festival of Motoring 2026

(GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Changan Automobile unveiled the new DEEPAL S05 REEV and UNI-S HEV at the 2026 WesBank Festival of Motoring in Kyalami, alongside the return of its commercial vehicle range. The launch marks another step forward in Changan’s regional footprint within South Africa’s growing new energy vehicle market.

Designed in Italy and engineered in the UK, the DEEPAL S05 REEV is a premium mid-size SUV built on a range-extended electric vehicle platform, offering an EV driving experience without range anxiety. A single electric motor produces 160kW and 320Nm, while a 1.5-litre petrol engine (72kW/125Nm) functions solely as a generator, topping up the 27kWh battery on the move. Changan claims a combined driving range of more than 1,000km, including up to 200km of pure electric range, as well as a 20-minute fast-charging capability when connected to an EV charger. The S05 is further equipped with a 15.4-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 50-inch augmented reality head-up display and Level 2 ADAS.

Joining the lineup is the new UNI-S HEV, which expands the UNI-S family with hybrid technology. The vehicle combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 110kW and 220Nm with an electric motor for a total system output of 166kW and 290Nm, paired with an electronic CVT transmission driving the front wheels. Changan claims a combined fuel consumption of 4.0L/100km. The UNI-S HEV also features Level 2 ADAS, a 540-degree HD camera system, wireless smartphone connectivity and a technology-focused cabin designed for modern mobility needs.

Expanding Changan’s electrified product portfolio on display was the Changan Hunter, the world’s first super range-extended off-road pickup. Equipped with an electric-drive two-speed transfer case and e-4WD system, the Hunter delivers exceptional all-terrain capability while combining the efficiency and driving characteristics of electrified powertrains. Designed for both work and adventure, it integrates rugged off-road performance, high-power V2L functionality and towing capability, making it well suited to outdoor enthusiasts and commercial users alike.

In addition to its passenger vehicle portfolio, Changan also showcased its commercial vehicle lineup, including single-cab and double-cab dropside models, panel vans, box-body derivatives and minibuses, further broadening its offering for business and commercial customers in South Africa.

South Africa forms an important part of Changan Automobile’s broader globalization strategy. Under the company’s Vast Ocean Plan, Changan is accelerating long-term development across the Middle East and Africa through a strategy focused on localization, sustainable growth and brand building.

Today, Changan is advancing its strategy of offering a wide range of powertrains and vehicle models in markets including South Africa. With more than 30 years of presence in the Middle East and Africa, cumulative regional sales exceeding 500,000 units, and a growing sales and service network spanning the Gulf, North Africa and Southern Africa, Changan remains committed to delivering intelligent, reliable and high-value mobility solutions tailored to the evolving needs of customers across the region.

CLICK HERE to submit your press release to MyPR.co.za.

Author: Karren Franco from Newsbeat Wire on behalf of Chongqing Changan Automobile Co., Ltd..

Read More at MyPR.co.za

Stimuli PR: Based in Lusaka, Zambia, Stimuli PR is a PR company. They provide Public Relations and Event Management and
were established in 2016.