With Chinese automakers continuing to expand their presence in new international markets, Changan is preparing to enter Australia with its electrified vehicle brands, including its mainstream Changan marque and luxury brand Avatr.

The company is recruiting locally for both brands, including for the development of an "Avatr/Changan sales and service network".

Exactly which models will be introduced and when sales will begin remain unconfirmed, although Changan has a range of battery-electric and plug-in hybrid models, while Avatr offers premium electrified vehicles with battery-electric and range-extender powertrains.

The arrival of the two brands would add to the presence of Chinese automotive manufacturers in Australia. Changan is already represented through other brands, including Deepal, which is distributed locally by Inchcape and sells the S07 electric SUV and E07 Multitruck. Changan has also developed the G318 range-extender off-roader, which has previously been evaluated for Australia, although a local launch has not been confirmed.

Changan also operates the Changan Mazda joint venture in China with Mazda. The joint venture has developed and builds the Mazda6e electric liftback and CX-6e electric SUV, both of which are headed to Australia. The models use Changan-derived architecture closely related to Deepal models, meaning Changan-developed EV technology will reach Australia before Changan's own models.

Avatr will provide Changan with a dedicated luxury brand in Australia, similar to Zeekr within the Geely group and Denza within BYD. Changan is Avatr's largest shareholder, with a stake of about 41%, while battery manufacturer CATL is another major investor and Huawei is a key technology partner.

Avatr's line-up includes the 06 sedan, 07 SUV, 11 coupe-SUV and 12 liftback, with battery-electric and range-extender powertrains available across the range. The Avatr 07 could be considered for Australia after a right-hand-drive example of the mid-size SUV was photographed testing in Melbourne earlier in 2026.

Avatr's strategy follows the increasingly common Chinese approach of using the scale, technology and manufacturing capabilities of a large parent company to compete in the premium segment through high equipment levels and competitive pricing. Geely-owned Zeekr has already entered the Australian market with models including the X, 7X and 009, while BYD is expanding further upmarket with Denza.

Australian launch timing, pricing and model line-ups for Changan and Avatr remain unconfirmed.