Changan brings Avatr and Nevo to Europe: which models could be launched next year
Changan expands electric offensive: Avatr and Nevo brands expected in Europe by 2027 – What prices could apply in Romania?
Chinese auto group Changan is stepping up its expansion plans on the "Old Continent", announcing its intention to bring two more electric vehicle brands, Avatr and Nevo, to the European market by 2027. This move comes shortly after the official debut of the Deepal brand in Europe, scheduled for spring 2025.
Through this multi-brand strategy, Changan aims to cover a diverse range of market segments, from affordable family models to the premium segment.
Changan Strategy: Three Brands, Three Segments
Recent statements by Klaus Zyciora, vice president and head of design at Changan, confirm ambitious plans to launch a total of eight new electric models by 2027. After Deepal, which focuses on modern mobility, will follow:
- Nevo: It will focus on family models, indicating a segment with high volumes and more competitive prices.
- Avatr: It will be positioned as a luxury or premium brand, a direct competitor to high-end electric models from established European manufacturers. In China, Avatr is a joint venture with tech giants Huawei (smart solutions) and CATL (batteries), which underlines the technological ambition.
At the same time, Zyciora mentioned that Changan is also considering marketing light commercial vehicles (LCVs) in Europe, thus completing its mobility offering.
Price estimates for Romania: A bet on the premium and family market
Although Changan has not yet announced official prices for Europe, let alone for Romania, we can make a series of estimates based on prices in China and brand positioning:
1. Avatr – Luxury and Technology
Avatr, through its models such as the Avatr 11 SUV and the Avatr 12 Gran Coupé, competes directly with the Tesla Model Y/Model S or with European premium rivals. Current prices in China and the Republic of Moldova (a market closer to the local context) give us a clear indication:
- Prices in China (USD) and Moldova (EUR): Avatr 11 models start at the equivalent of approximately $51,800 in China (base version, 2022) and around €46,000 in Moldova.
- Romania Price Estimate: Considering transportation costs, adaptation (homologation, safety standards), VAT (19%) and European dealer margins, prices in Romania for an Avatr 11 or Avatr 12 model could start from: €55,000 – €75,000 (depending on battery and engine version - RWD or AWD).
These prices would place Avatr firmly in the premium segment, relying on the advanced technological features provided by Huawei and the long range (up to over 700 km CLTC in China).
2. Nevo – Focus on Family
The Nevo brand is described as family-oriented. Given that it is positioned below Avatr and targets a volume segment, we can expect more affordable prices.
- Representative Models: The Nevo E07 (a large SUV, crossover) is an important model that could reach Europe.
- Romania Price Estimate: Nevo's family models should compete with mid-to-large class electric SUVs (such as the Tesla Model Y or volume models from VW, Skoda, etc.), but with a price advantage specific to Chinese brands.
Estimated Nevo range in Romania: €38,000 – €50,000 (for a well-equipped family SUV).
The Tax Barrier and the "Made in Europe" Solution
A crucial factor that will influence final prices is Changan's decision to build a plant in Europe. The European Union is currently investigating subsidies received by Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers and may impose additional customs duties on imported cars from China.
If Changan manages to start local production before 2027 (according to the "In Europe for Europe" strategy), import costs would be eliminated or significantly reduced, allowing for more competitive prices in Romania and other European markets. Until then, however, prices will have to absorb potential taxes.
In conclusion, with Deepal, Avatr and Nevo, Changan brings a complete and challenging electric offensive to Europe. Success on the Romanian market will depend, as usual, on a correct balance between standard features, real autonomy and, most importantly, the final price compared to already established European and Asian rivals.