Changan Electric Pickups – In a major shake-up of South Africa’s growing electric vehicle (EV) market, Chinese automaker Changan has officially confirmed that its range of electric pickup trucks will launch locally in Q4 2025. This announcement marks a pivotal moment in the country’s automotive evolution, with electric pickups finally entering the mainstream – something both commercial users and private drivers have been eagerly waiting for. Changan, a well-established name in Asia, is bringing its electrified workhorses to South Africa just as the nation intensifies its push for sustainable transportation. With a reputation for reliability, affordability, and innovation, the arrival of these EV pickups is expected to disrupt both the bakkie and electric vehicle segments in the country. This move is part of a larger strategy to capitalize on the demand for clean-energy commercial vehicles, particularly in sectors such as construction, agriculture, urban logistics, and government services. With load-shedding and fuel costs making traditional pickups less viable, electric models are gaining traction fast. According to industry sources, initial shipments are already being prepared, with bookings set to open in late September. Early data suggests overwhelming interest from fleet buyers and logistics companies, with some even placing pre-orders ahead of the launch. Below, we break down everything you need to know about the upcoming Changan electric pickups, from models and features to pricing, specs, and government support.
Changan’s Electric Pickup Lineup Set for SA Launch
Changan is expected to release multiple EV pickup variants suited for different use cases. Here’s a quick preview of what will be available by Q4 2025:
- Targeted for both private and commercial buyers
- Designed for South African roads and climate
- Includes single-cab and double-cab options
- Expected payload capacity of 800kg to 1,200kg
- Advanced safety and connectivity features
- Fast charging capability included as standard
- Service network expanding across all major provinces
Model Comparison – What to Expect from Each Variant
Changan is expected to launch at least two confirmed models: the Changan Lantazhe EV and the Changan Hunter EV. Below is a detailed comparison of their expected specs:
| Feature | Lantazhe EV (Entry) | Lantazhe EV (Premium) | Hunter EV (4×4) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 60 kWh | 70 kWh | 88 kWh |
| Range (Est.) | 280 km | 340 km | 410 km |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel | Rear-wheel | All-wheel (4×4) |
| Payload Capacity | 800 kg | 1000 kg | 1200 kg |
| Fast Charging (0–80%) | 45 minutes | 40 minutes | 35 minutes |
| Max Torque | 180 Nm | 210 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Infotainment | 8” Screen | 10” Smart Display | 12” Full Touchscreen |
| Price (Est. in ZAR) | R489,000 | R569,000 | R699,000 |
How Changan’s Electric Pickups Stack Up Against Rivals
The Changan EV pickups enter a space with limited competition, but that’s changing fast.
- Current rivals include JAC T8 EV and incoming BYD Ute
- Changan expected to undercut pricing by at least 10%
- Better range and payload specs than local ICE models
- More standard features (touchscreen, safety tech, fast charging)
- Warranty and service plan details pending confirmation
Charging, Infrastructure & Running Costs in South Africa
Charging access and affordability remain major questions for potential EV buyers. Fortunately, Changan is working with local partners.
- Home charger installation to be offered with vehicle purchase
- DC fast-charger compatibility at public stations
- Range anxiety reduced through improved battery management systems
- Running costs expected to be 65–70% lower than petrol/diesel
- Software updates over-the-air will improve battery performance
Government Incentives and EV Policy Updates
With the DTI and Department of Transport both pushing clean mobility, there are benefits to early EV adoption.
- Import duty exemptions for electric commercial vehicles under review
- Possible VAT rebates on locally assembled EVs in 2025
- Free license registration in select provinces being discussed
- Municipalities may allow EVs in bus/taxi lanes
- Energy Department encouraging solar-based EV charging stations
Early Booking and Launch Timeline – What Buyers Should Know
Changan South Africa has confirmed the following timeline:
- July 2025: National awareness campaign begins
- September 2025: Pre-orders officially open
- October 2025: First shipment lands at Durban Port
- November 2025: Test drives available at dealerships
- December 2025: First customer deliveries begin
Those interested in priority delivery should register on Changan SA’s official site, which will feature model selectors, range calculators, and loan calculators for business buyers.
Fleet Buyers & B2B Demand: Why Businesses Are Lining Up
Logistics firms, agri-farms, and municipal authorities are lining up to place bulk orders, driven by:
- Long-term fuel cost savings
- Lower maintenance due to fewer moving parts
- Government pressure to decarbonize public fleets
- Better telemetry, route-tracking, and diagnostics
- Growing brand trust due to Changan’s success in Asia-Pacific
Changan is expected to offer fleet servicing contracts, bulk pricing deals, and even EV-driving training for logistics staff. This move is aimed at speeding up EV adoption in commercial spaces and reducing diesel dependency.
Potential Concerns for South African Buyers
While enthusiasm is high, some concerns remain:
- Resale value of electric pickups is still untested
- Load-shedding remains a challenge for charging reliability
- Long-term parts availability and service network expansion
- Charging station accessibility outside metro zones
- Education gap in rural areas regarding EV benefits
Changan says these are being addressed through education campaigns, backup battery solutions for off-grid charging, and aggressive expansion of its dealership and service footprint.
Pricing, Features & Launch Summary Table
| Launch Phase | Activity | Timeline | Target Audience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Awareness Campaign | National TV, radio & online ads | July 2025 | General Public |
| Pre-Booking | Online & dealer registration | September 2025 | Private & Business Buyers |
| Vehicle Arrival | Port offload & customs clearance | October 2025 | Logistics/Dealerships |
| Test Drive Events | Major metro areas nationwide | November 2025 | All Prospective Buyers |
| Customer Deliveries | Official handover & media coverage | December 2025 | Early Adopters |
| Fleet Deals Finalized | Government and corporate contracts | Q4 2025 onwards | B2B & Government Buyers |
South Africa’s transition to electric mobility is about to take a serious step forward, and Changan’s electric pickups may well be the vehicle that brings clean energy bakkies to the masses. For early adopters, the launch of these feature-rich and competitively priced EVs offers not just a greener option but a smarter, future-ready investment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the range of Changan electric pickups?
The estimated range varies between 280 km to 410 km depending on the model.
Q2: Will these pickups support fast charging?
Yes, all models will come with fast-charging capability, enabling 0–80% charge in under 45 minutes.
Q3: What is the estimated starting price?
The entry-level model is expected to start from around R489,000, which undercuts most current electric pickups on the market.
Q4: Will fleet buyers get discounts?
Yes, Changan South Africa will offer tailored fleet solutions with lower per-unit pricing and servicing packages.
Q5: Where will these vehicles be available?
Launch availability will start in major metros like Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and Pretoria, followed by national expansion.