Jameel Motors brings Changan to South Africa
Jameel Motors, a provider of mobility solutions and partner of choice to top automotive brands, and Changan Automobile, have signed an agreement to distribute sports utility vehicles, sedans, pickups, and new energy vehicles in South Africa.
This marks a new market entry for Jameel Motors. The South African market represents a significant long-term investment opportunity, given that it is the largest automotive market in Africa, with new vehicle sales totaling more than 500,000 in 2024, as well as the growing demand for affordable vehicles with the latest technology. In January 2025, the new passenger car market saw an increase of 18.3 percent cars sold year on year. Jameel Motors' commitment includes creating jobs and developing local dealerships, contributing to the economic growth of the country.
Jameel Motors will initially focus on the distribution of Changan and Deepal products. Changan offers sedans, SUVs and pickup combustion engine vehicles, while Deepal focuses on NEVs. Both Deepal and Changan vehicles are ideal for South Africa's diverse terrain and road conditions. Building on its strong track record, Jameel Motors is well positioned to meet local customer preferences. Vehicles will be available for purchase in Q4 2025.
Jasmmine Wong, CEO — mobility, Abdul Latif Jameel, said: 'We are thrilled to announce Jameel Motors' market entry to South Africa, especially as we do so with Changan Automobile, a forward-thinking automotive player with exceptional products. We are looking forward to driving long-term growth in the market and empowering drivers across South Africa with expanded and superior personal mobility choices.'
XIAO Feng, general manager, Changan Automobile Middle East and Africa business unit, said: 'This is a new milestone for our business in South Africa. Changan Automobile, as a leading Chinese automotive company, has been committed to building a world-class automotive brand. We are confident that, through the strategic cooperation with Jameel Motors, we will be a key player in the South African market.'
Jameel Motors in South Africa will be headed by Marinus Venter, an accomplished professional with 18 years of experience leading automotive brands. Having been at the forefront of introducing new and innovative vehicle models to the market for the likes of Nissan and Mercedes-Benz Vans, Venter brings with him extensive expertise in after-sales, marketing, business planning, product management, customer service, and parts.
He said: 'I am honored to join a business that is building on 70 years of automotive excellence, as we introduce Changan and Deepal vehicles to South Africa. By leveraging Jameel Motors' extensive experience and Changan Automobile's renowned focus on safety, quality, and technology, I believe we can effectively meet the diverse automotive demands of South African drivers and deliver a positive market experience.'
Changan Automobile is one of China's four largest automotive groups, with a presence in 70 countries, sales of 2.7 million units (2024) and a strong focus on safety, innovation and technology.
Jameel Motors represents some of the world's most recognized commercial and passenger vehicle brands and has operations in more than 10 countries across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia and most recently Australia. This agreement marks another milestone as Jameel Motors continues to expand internationally and harness innovation for the future of mobility.
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