Changan Deepal EV Enters Thailand – Malaysia Next?

Changan's Deepal NEV brand has initiated its global expansion by introducing both the L07 sedan and S07 SUV models to the Thai market. The initial batch of cars has already been shipped to Thailand, showcasing the brand's commitment to international growth.

Both vehicles are offered as Electric Vehicles (EVs) featuring Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and ternary Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) batteries with a capacity of 66.8 kWh. Notably, in China, these models are also available as Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs).

Deepal, which was introduced as a new energy brand under Changan in 2022, boasts a model line comprising the SL03 sedan and the S7 crossover. Internationally, these models are named L07 and S07 respectively, and both were designed by Bertrand Bach, a former GM veteran.

Built based on the EP1 platform, the L07 is available in China as a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), an EREV (range extender), and a Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV). The Deepal S07, on the other hand, offers BEV and EREV variants, however only the electric variants of L07 and S07 will be available internationally.

The L07, a mid-sized sedan, boasts dimensions of 4,820 mm in length, 1,890 mm wide, 1,480 mm in height with a ground clearance of 150 mm. Its interior includes a 14.6-inch screen paired with a 10.5-inch LCD instrument cluster, and it is equipped with a single electric motor generating 190 kW on the rear axle. The L07's 66.8-kWh ternary NMC battery provides a range of 540 km (NEDC), priced from TBH1,329,000 (RM176,000).

As for the Deepal S07 SUV, it would be 4,750 mm in length, 1930 mm wide and stand at 1625 mm in height. Unlike the low-slung L07 sedan, the S07 boasts a healthy ground clearance of 165 mm. Inside, the S07 would house a 15.6-inch screen and 14 speakers. Although this model shares a similar powertrain with the L07 sedan, due to its SUV nature it would deliver a range of 485 km (NEDC) only. The S07 SUV would be priced starting from TBH1,399,000 (RM186,000) in Thailand.

Deepal's ambitious plans include venturing into the European and ASEAN markets with a target of achieving annual sales of 450,000 units in 2024. Thailand was disclosed as Deepal's first overseas market in November 2023, which would also see these models being converted into right hand drive market configuration in its plant starting in early 2025.

Having said that, this move would eventually result in Deepal entering other RHD markets such as Malaysia, Indonesia and Australia to name a few.