After generating excitement with the Hunter REEV pickup at last year's Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS), Changan Philippines is poised to expand its footprint in the rapidly growing New Energy Vehicle (NEV, hybrid and electric power) segment. With hybrid and electric vehicles gaining popularity in the local market, Changan is taking steps to offer more NEV options to Filipino consumers. A source within the company has hinted that a new hybrid crossover will be introduced, aimed at competing with the recently launched BYD Sealion 6.
Changan Hunter REEV imminent launch
Changan Philippines is also gearing up for the launch of the Hunter REEV, a range-extended electric pickup that redefines capabilities in the light truck market. The Hunter REEV employs a 2.0T Blue Whale range extender, paired with an electric motor and battery to form a range-extended hybrid system. This setup provides a maximum power of 193-PS, with the two-wheel-drive variant featuring a 130-kW rear-mounted electric motor and the four-wheel-drive version utilizing a dual-motor system producing 70-kW and 130-kW, achieving a peak torque of 470-Nm. The Hunter REEV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and offers robust performance for a wide range of applications.
The Hunter REEV boasts an impressive pure electric range of 180 kilometers from its 31.18-kWh battery and a comprehensive range of over 1000 kilometers with the 70-liter capacity fuel tank. Fuel consumption is rated at an efficient 1.3L/100 km (CLTC), making it a practical and environmentally friendly choice. Additionally, the vehicle offers a 3.3 kW external power discharge function with integrated 220V outlets, allowing for the use of appliances such as power tools or camping equipment for extended periods.
Strong candidate: Nevo Q05
Among Changan's potential offerings, the Nevo Q05 emerges as a strong contender in this competitive landscape. This plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) belongs to Changan’s Nevo sub-brand, which aims to bridge the gap between traditional internal combustion engines (ICE) and fully electric vehicles (EVs). Vehicles under this sub-brand prioritize advanced hybrid technology and practical design.
The Nevo Q05 is a PHEV variant of the second-generation CS55 Plus, featuring design enhancements such as updated bumpers and a sleek grille that highlight its electrified identity. The Q05 is powered by a 1.5-liter JL473Q5 gasoline engine which is also used in other Changan hybrids such as the Qiyuan A06 (also known as the Changan UNI-V iDD). This engine is paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 214 PS and 330 Nm of torque. The Q05 is equipped with a lithium-ion battery available in 9.07 kWh to 18.99 kWh configurations, providing an all-electric range of 60 km to 125 km, depending on the variant. To compete with the BYD Sealion 6's impressive 1,200-kilometer range, Changan is likely to introduce the 18.99 kWh model. Performance metrics include a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time of 7.3 to 8.1 seconds and a top speed of 180 kmh. The Q05 also features a MacPherson strut suspension system at the front, multi-link suspension at the rear, and aluminum alloy wheels in 18-inch and 19-inch sizes. The source indicated that the Q05 would be priced lower than the competition, so we must await official specifications should the launch push through this year.
EV options
In addition to its hybrid vehicles, Changan Philippines may also be preparing to launch its fully electric sub-brand, Deepal, in the local market. Recent sightings of the Deepal S07 electric SUV, suggest that the brand is testing the waters for a potential Philippine introduction. The Deepal S07 boasts a sleek and modern design and has received positive feedback in other markets due to its advanced features and futuristic styling. If launched locally, the S07 could compete in the expanding EV segment and attract tech-savvy Filipino consumers seeking zero-emission vehicles. While details about the S07’s specifications are still limited, its possible entry could signal Changan Philippines’s efforts to establish a competitive presence in the EV market.