Changan South Africa has recorded one of the strongest month-on-month growth rates in the domestic automotive market, according to the latest NAAMSA Flash Report for January and February 2026.
The figures show Changan increasing sales from January to February – representing an 81.9% month-on-month uplift. Importantly, while this growth is off a relatively low base, the pace and consistency of the uplift is what matters. Over the same period, the total domestic market grew by approximately 6.8%, from 50,073 to 53,455 units. In effect, Changan expanded at nearly 12 times the rate of the overall market, during a period where growth is usually economically restricted.
Growth Rate Signals Market Relevance and Demand
Cumulatively, Changan made a positive start in the opening months of the year. Although they remain a relatively new and smaller player by comparison, the initial volume has already edged ahead of other premium and specialist brands during the same period, according to the latest NAAMSA domestic totals.
Mr Marinus Venter, Country Manager of Jameel Motors South Africa, said the data reflects disciplined execution rather than short-term volatility. “We recognise this growth is from a relatively low base, so we’re cautious about over-interpretation based on one month,” said Venter. “What matters more is the quality and sustainability of the uplift. We’re building the business with a long-term view – strengthening our dealer network, ensuring parts availability, and delivering consistent customer experiences. It’s also encouraging that fleet customers are identifying and adopting the product quickest; a notoriously demanding segment that tends to be the most critical on reliability, value and total cost of ownership – so early fleet traction is a meaningful indicator.”
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From 30 Million Drivers Worldwide to South African Adoption
Changan’s local progress is underpinned by the strength of its global foundation. Established in 1862, Changan is one of China’s oldest automotive manufacturers and today serves more than 30 million drivers worldwide. The brand operates across multiple international markets with a growing global footprint, supported by advanced R&D capability and large-scale manufacturing capacity.
Converting Momentum into Market Share, From Acceleration to Sustained Expansion
Changan’s early momentum won’t be left to the current line-up to carry on its own. “In April we will introduce the UNI-S,” said Venter. “We’re measured in how we communicate a new launch, but this is a pivotal product for us – positioned in the heart of the market with a specification level that, on paper, is right up there with the best in the segment.”
“What gives us confidence is that UNI-S is well known, globally. The model family has already achieved over one million cumulative sales internationally, which is a strong indicator of broad-market acceptance,” he added.
“Locally, UNI-S will bring the kind of performance and engineered technology that South Africans are asking for – 138kW & 300Nm of power, delivered through a 7-speed DCT, plus a high level of in-cabin and safety tech. Our focus is to execute on the launch and let the product do the talking. Our ambition is clear: to compete for leadership in the segment, based on real value and true specification.”
