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Key Information

Jiangxi Changhe Automobile Co Ltd
Simplified Chinese江西昌河汽车有限责任公司
Traditional Chinese江西昌河汽車有限責任公司
Transcriptions
Standard Mandarin
Hanyu PinyinJiāngxī Chānghé Qìchē Yǒuxiàn Zérèn Gōngsī

Changhe, officially Jiangxi Changhe Automobile Co Ltd, was a Chinese automobile manufacturer based in Jingdezhen, Jiangxi province, China.[1]

Making cars and microvans, small trucks and vans for commercial purposes,[3] Changhe had an estimated 200,000 (227,000 to 260,000[1]) units/year production capacity as of 2010.[3] Production capacity figures considered engines and vehicles as discrete. In the last period of company's existence, it was a majority-owned subsidiary of a large, state-owned automaker, BAIC,[2] Changhe was previously engaged in a joint venture with Suzuki Motor Corporation of Japan.[3] In 2022 all products have been discontinued and the company's website ceased to be available after May.[4]

History

[edit]
Changhe CH6390 "Freedom" (aka Friend) microvan
The nameplate of a 1997-built Changhe CH6320 microvan, with the manufacturer labeled as "Changhe Aircraft Industries Corporation".

A subsidiary of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) until 2010,[3] perhaps[citation needed] it was the dictate of the Chinese government that prompted a large, state-owned automaker to take Changhe under its wing in a 2009 merger.[5] Between that year and 2013, Chang'an held ownership of the company but was unable to boost growth prompting another merger with a more competent, state-owned partner, BAIC.[2]

Having always been a smaller, dynamic vehicle manufacturer, Changhe was well established by 1973,[citation needed] the year trial production of buses began.[1] Originally only making buses, the introduction of a small passenger vehicle (the Suzuki Carry ST90V) began in 1982 and sparked a long relationship with this Japanese automaker.[6] Currently, Changhe companies make both Suzuki and Changhe-branded vehicles. In 1995,[1] it entered a legal partnership with Suzuki forming a joint venture, Jiangxi Changhe-Suzuki Automobile Co Ltd.[7] This JV does not make all the Suzuki-branded automobiles sold on the Chinese market as some are produced by another Chinese joint venture, Changan Suzuki. Imported models are marketed by Suzuki Motor (China) Investment Co Ltd.[8]

Suzuki may currently be unhappy with its Chinese partners. Despite being an early entrant in the Chinese auto market, this Japanese company has lackluster sales in the country. Suzuki's efforts to change the situation by merging its two joint ventures—since Chinese business law does not allow any foreign company more than two—have so far been stymied by its Chinese partners, who instead hope Suzuki will improve their situation. The Chinese state may also not want new foreign-Chinese joint auto-making ventures at this time.[9] An effort to sell the entire Suzuki model range at unified dealerships fell through in 2008.[10] (This may have been tried again in 2010.)[11]

Changhe-Suzuki Beidouxing X5

Changhe-Suzuki's first products were versions of the Suzuki Carry microvans and trucks. As of 2010, microvan products include the Suzuki Wagon R (called the Big Dipper and in Chinese: 北斗星)[12] and the newer Suzuki Landy (Chinese: 浪迪; pinyin: Làngdí).[13] In 2006, Changhe themselves introduced the new microvan CH6390 Freedom (also called Friend), which has Suzuki underpinnings but a Changhe-designed body.

While microvans continue to be a core product, several recently introduced small cars have expanded the company's offerings. These include the subcompact Changhe Ideal (first seen in October 2003), a self-developed car albeit with styling by Bertone and some Suzuki technology.[6] The Suzuki Liana (Chinese: 利亚纳; pinyin: Lìyǎnà)[14] is also offered.[15] While lower-end Changhes depend on common, Chinese-built engines also used by a variety of other local brands,[16] Changhe builds the Suzuki K12B and K14B engines for use in higher-end versions.[17] These have seen use in a variety of Changhe products, including the Suzuki Wagon R, Liana, and Landy, as well as the Freedom and Ideal. The brand was completely discontinued in 2022.

Export

[edit]

Changhe has exported to some European and South American nations. These exports may be in the form of complete knock-down kits and are likely fitful and sporadic.

Latin America

[edit]

Some Changhe models are sold in Brazil[18] and Uruguay[19] under the brand name Effa, and here the Ideal has been renamed the M100.[20] Total Brazilian sales of the Ideal in 2010 were a reported 426 units.[21] In Venezuela, the first Latin American country to receive a Changhe product (2007), the official dealer of the Changhe Ideal was Cinascar,[22] but this model is no longer listed on Cinascar's website. In Peru and/or Colombia, Faga Motors sells various Changhe microvans.[23]

Europe

[edit]

Italian importer Martin Motors rebadges and sells the Changhe Landy as a Martin Motors Coolcar.[24] The Ideal is known in Italy as the Martin Ideal 1000.

The Ideal is also marketed in Ukraine.[25]

IPO

[edit]

Listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange or Shenzhen Stock Exchange[citation needed] in 2001, Changhe was delisted in 2008 prior to its 2009 sale.[1]


All models

[edit]

Former models

[edit]
  • Changhe Beidouxing I
    Changhe Beidouxing I
  • Changhe Beidouxing II
    Changhe Beidouxing II
  • Changhe A6
    Changhe A6
  • Changhe Freedom
    Changhe Freedom
  • Changhe Freedom M50
    Changhe Freedom M50
  • Changhe Freedom M70
    Changhe Freedom M70
  • Changhe Fuyun
    Changhe Fuyun
  • Changhe Haitun
    Changhe Haitun
  • Changhe Changlingwang
    Changhe Changlingwang
  • Changhe Ideal
    Changhe Ideal
  • Changhe Q25
    Changhe Q25
  • Changhe Q35
    Changhe Q35
  • Changhe Q7
    Changhe Q7

Production bases

[edit]

Changhe locates its production in Jiangxi Province,[3] at Jingdezhen City and Jiujiang City,[1] and in the capital of Anhui province, Hefei.[1] Engines are made at the Jiujiang location,[26] and all three production bases assemble cars.[1]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Changhe

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Changhe, officially Jiangxi Changhe Automobile Co., Ltd., was a Chinese automobile manufacturer based in , province, specializing in the production of passenger cars, multipurpose vehicles, sport utility vehicles, new energy vehicles, commercial vehicles, and light trucks. It was a majority-owned subsidiary of Automotive Industry Holding Co., Ltd. () from 2013 until ceasing operations in 2022, with an annual production capacity of approximately 200,000 to 260,000 units at its peak, focusing on compact and commercial models for domestic and export markets. The company's automotive operations originated from the Changhe Group, established in 1969 in as a that initially encompassed machinery and manufacturing, including helicopters under AVIC Changhe Aircraft Industries Group. The automobile division began with trial production of buses in 1973 and introduced the ST-90V mini-van, based on a licensed design, in 1982, marking its entry into small vehicle assembly. In 1995, it formed a with Motor Corporation, creating Jiangxi Changhe-Suzuki Automobile Co., Ltd., which emphasized microvans, light trucks, and passenger cars based on designs. In 2009, amid China's consolidation, acquired Changhe from (AVIC), integrating it as a while retaining the Changhe brand for mini and commercial vehicles. However, in 2013, due to ongoing challenges, transferred control to the provincial government, which facilitated BAIC Group's acquisition of a 70% stake. The partnership concluded in 2018, with transferring its equity stake to Changhe. Changhe produced models such as the A6 sedan until its operations ceased in 2022.

Company Overview

Founding and Early Development

Jiangxi Changhe Automobile Co., Ltd., commonly known as Changhe, was established in 1970 as a machinery factory in , Province, , initially focused on manufacturing to support local transportation needs. The company began operations amid China's early industrial push for domestic production, positioning itself as a key player in the regional automotive sector. By 1973, Changhe had advanced to trial production of buses, concentrating on small-scale assembly to build foundational capabilities in vehicle manufacturing. This phase emphasized the development of minibuses and basic commercial vehicles, enabling the company to enter the domestic Chinese market with products tailored for urban and rural transport demands. Early efforts were modest, reflecting the limited technological and infrastructural resources available at the time, but they marked Changhe's initial foray into operational vehicle output. During the 1970s and 1980s, Changhe expanded beyond bus-only production into microvans and small trucks, diversifying its portfolio to meet growing needs for lightweight commercial vehicles in China's developing economy. This shift represented a critical milestone, as it broadened the company's production scope and enhanced its domestic market presence through more versatile offerings. Key achievements included scaling up assembly lines for these new vehicle types and achieving consistent output for local distribution, laying the groundwork for further growth. This early expansion led to cooperative production with beginning in 1982, culminating in a formal in 1995.

Ownership and Corporate Structure

Changhe, officially known as Jiangxi Changhe Automobile Co., Ltd., was initially established as a under the (AVIC), maintaining this status until 2009. As a of AVIC, Changhe's operations were closely aligned with China's and defense sectors, reflecting the broader integration of military-industrial complexes into during that period. In 2009, AVIC transferred ownership of to China Changan Automobile Group, leading to temporary management by from 2009 to 2013 as part of a strategic consolidation within China's . This arrangement allowed to oversee Changhe's production and development, though it marked a shift from direct AVIC control. By 2013, following a , Changhe was detached from and transferred to provincial oversight. That same year, Beijing Automotive Industry Corporation (BAIC) Group acquired a 70% stake in Changhe through an investment agreement, with the remaining 30% held by the Provincial State-owned Enterprise Assets Operation (Holdings) Co., Ltd. This acquisition positioned Changhe as a majority-owned of BAIC until 2022, emphasizing state-influenced governance where key decisions were guided by both central (via BAIC) and provincial stakeholders. Headquartered in , Province, Changhe's corporate structure supported integrated operations under BAIC's oversight, with production capacity reaching peaks of approximately 200,000 units per year around 2010. The joint venture with Motor Corporation, established in 1995 and dissolved in 2018, also shaped its organizational setup by introducing collaborative management frameworks. Operations ceased in 2022, with all products discontinued.

Historical Development

Partnership with Suzuki

The partnership between Changhe and Motor Corporation began with informal cooperation in the early 1980s for , enabling Changhe to assemble -designed compact vehicles like microvans. This laid the foundation for deeper collaboration, culminating in the establishment of the official , Jiangxi Changhe- Automobile Co., Ltd. (Changhe ), in August 1994. The JV was formed between Changhe Aero Industry Co. (51% equity), (46%), and Okaya & Co., Ltd. (3%), with a focus on localized production of small passenger cars, microvans, and light commercial vehicles to serve the Chinese market. Production and sales of Suzuki-branded automobiles commenced in June 1995 at the facility in , province, with an annual capacity reaching 200,000 units by the mid-2000s. The partnership emphasized licensing Suzuki's compact vehicle designs, particularly for microvans and entry-level passenger cars, allowing Changhe to adapt these platforms with China-specific modifications such as enhanced durability for local road conditions and cost-optimized components to improve affordability. Shared R&D efforts between the partners concentrated on engineering tweaks for better and compliance with evolving Chinese emissions standards, significantly boosting Changhe's expertise in lightweight vehicle manufacturing and assembly techniques. The collaboration faced challenges from shifting market preferences toward larger SUVs and intensified domestic competition, leading to declining sales in the late 2010s. In June 2018, and Okaya transferred their combined 49% equity to Changhe Automobile, effectively ending the after 24 years; this followed BAIC's 2013 acquisition of a 70% stake in Changhe, which redirected strategic priorities toward independent development.

Ownership Transitions and Acquisitions

In 2009, the (AVIC) transferred its automotive assets, including full ownership of Jiangxi Changhe Automobile Co., to China Ordnance Equipment Group Corporation (COEGC), the parent of Group, as part of a broader industry consolidation effort; in exchange, AVIC received a 23% stake in Changan. This marked the beginning of an overlap period where AVIC's influence waned while Changan assumed increasing control, culminating in Changan's full management of Changhe by 2010, though the provincial government retained a longstanding 30% stake to support regional economic interests. Under Changan's oversight from 2009 to 2013, Changhe faced operational challenges, including disputes over integration strategies that led to a four-day worker strike in early 2012, temporarily halting production and forcing Changan to pause its plans to relocate manufacturing facilities. These tensions, exacerbated by strained relations with longtime partner , contributed to production realignments and inconsistent output during the handover periods, as Changan sought to align Changhe's microvan focus with its broader portfolio but encountered resistance from local stakeholders. By 2013, ongoing integration difficulties prompted to divest Changhe, leading to Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co. Ltd. () acquiring a 70% stake in a strategic move to bolster its light vehicle segment and expand into microvans and commercial offerings. The acquisition, formalized through a cooperation agreement with the provincial government, aimed to revitalize Changhe's operations by leveraging BAIC's resources for production upgrades and market repositioning, though it involved further realignments such as facility assessments and temporary adjustments to assembly lines during the ownership shift. Post-2013, the government's 30% stake continued to play a pivotal role in ensuring regional , facilitating local employment and continuity amid the national-level corporate changes. Operations under BAIC continued until the company's effective discontinuation around 2022. This transition from to BAIC, building on the earlier collaboration for technical foundations, ultimately redirected Changhe's strategic priorities toward BAIC's ecosystem of urban mobility solutions.

Initial Public Offering

Jiangxi Changhe Automobile Co., Ltd. conducted its (IPO) on the in 2001, marking it as one of China's early listings in the automotive sector. The company issued 110 million ordinary shares at a price of 7.28 RMB per share through an online pricing mechanism, successfully raising 800.8 million RMB in gross proceeds. The shares began trading on July 6, 2001, under the stock code 600372. The primary purpose of the IPO was to secure funding for expanding production capabilities and upgrading technologies, enabling the company to develop new models and enhance operational efficiency amid growing domestic demand for automobiles. By the end of 2001, a portion of the raised funds had been allocated to new design and development projects, including for upcoming models, while the remainder was held in bank deposits to support ongoing initiatives. This capital infusion initially bolstered the company's assets, which grew to 3.33 billion RMB by year-end, though net profits declined slightly to 86.9 million RMB compared to the prior year. In , amid regulatory requirements and persistent performance challenges intensified by the global financial crisis, Changhe's shares faced delisting risk warnings from the due to consecutive annual losses in 2006 and 2007. Trading was halted on , , with the stock designated as *ST Changhe starting April 15, signaling potential delisting. The delisting process, completed ahead of the 2009 ownership transition to AVIC, strained as share values eroded and diminished, ultimately leading to the termination of public trading and a shift toward private restructuring under AVIC operations.

Products and Models

Microvans and Light Commercial Vehicles

Changhe's production of microvans began in the early through a licensing agreement with for the Carry model, marking the company's initial foray into light commercial vehicles tailored for utility purposes. These variants, such as the CH730 and CH1010 series, featured compact dimensions under 4 meters and rear-wheel-drive layouts, with adaptations including reinforced suspensions and higher ground clearance to suit China's rural road conditions and agricultural transport needs. Engine options ranged from 0.8L to 1.0L inline-four units producing around 40-50 hp, enabling payloads of up to 500 kg while maintaining for small-scale farming and delivery operations in lower-tier cities. Production of these Carry-based microvans continued until the early , emphasizing durability and low maintenance costs for rural users. In the 2000s, Changhe expanded its microvan lineup with passenger-oriented models derived from the Suzuki Wagon R, notably the Beidouxing (Big Dipper), launched in 2004 through the Changhe-Suzuki joint venture established in 1995. This five- to seven-seater variant adapted the Wagon R's tall-boy design for enhanced interior space, incorporating a sliding side door and flexible seating to serve as a versatile people-carrier for rural families and small businesses. Powered by a 1.0L engine delivering 64 hp or a later 1.2L option with 79 hp, the Beidouxing offered a wheelbase of approximately 2.4 meters and a payload capacity of up to 400 kg, prioritizing affordability with prices under 50,000 yuan at launch. Production extended until 2022, with local modifications like simplified interiors and rust-resistant treatments to better withstand humid rural environments. A significant evolution came in 2006 with the CH6390 Freedom (Furuida), an indigenous microvan design by Changhe that retained Suzuki underpinnings in its chassis and powertrain but featured a proprietary body for greater customization. Emphasizing affordability and versatility, the Freedom targeted third- and fourth-tier cities with options for 5- to 8-seat configurations, including cargo-focused variants with foldable rear seats. It utilized 1.0L (60 hp) and 1.2L (76 hp) engines paired with a five-speed , achieving dimensions of about 3.87 meters in length and a maximum of up to 800 kg in van form. The model's rear-wheel-drive setup and 145 mm ground clearance further supported its utility in rural , with production continuing into the . Export versions of these microvans, including adapted Freedom models, reached Latin American markets like and under local branding, with minor tweaks for regional emissions standards.

Passenger Cars

Changhe entered the passenger car segment through its joint venture with , leveraging the partnership to develop compact models suited for China's burgeoning urban markets. The company's initial efforts focused on affordable, efficient vehicles that addressed the needs of city dwellers navigating congested streets and rising fuel costs. In 2003, Changhe launched the Ideal, marking its first independent passenger car model developed primarily in-house, though with styling contributions from firm Bertone and underlying technology. This subcompact city car featured a lightweight body with a 2.33-meter , enabling space-efficient interiors that maximized cabin room for four occupants despite its 3.56-meter overall length. Powered by a 1.0-liter or 1.1-liter inline-four gasoline engine, the Ideal emphasized , achieving combined consumption rates of 6.9 to 8.7 liters per 100 kilometers, which appealed to budget-conscious urban Chinese buyers seeking economical daily transportation. Shortly before the Ideal, Changhe began production of the sedan in 2005 under the Changhe-Suzuki banner, introducing a more versatile option in the compact class. The utilized front-wheel-drive architecture and offered engine choices including 1.3-liter and 1.6-liter DOHC naturally aspirated all-aluminum units, delivering 90 to 103 horsepower while prioritizing responsive handling and modest acceleration for city driving. Its design incorporated practical elements like a spacious trunk and foldable rear seats, further enhancing interior versatility for family use in dense urban environments, with urban around 9.2 liters per 100 kilometers. These models saw significant uptake in the mid-2000s, reflecting Changhe's growing foothold in 's passenger car market. The Ideal achieved peak annual sales of 19,352 units in , following initial volumes of 2,078 in its debut year and rising to 18,400 by 2006, driven by its low and suitability for first-time car owners in cities. While specific figures for the are less granular, it contributed to Changhe's overall passenger vehicle output, which surged to over 17,000 units monthly by late 2006, underscoring the models' role in capturing urban demand during a period of rapid automotive expansion in .

Light Trucks and Utility Vehicles

Changhe's and lineup focused on compact models suited for urban and rural applications, leveraging technology from its partnership with to produce affordable, versatile options for commercial use. The primary offerings included the series pickup variants, such as the K21 single-cab and K22 double-cab models, introduced in the mid-2000s as adaptations of Suzuki-derived platforms for light-duty hauling. These vehicles shared structural components with Changhe's line, enabling cost-effective production while providing open-bed configurations for cargo transport. The K22, launched in 2016, featured a 1.2-liter engine producing 88 horsepower, paired with a five-speed , and offered a capacity of approximately 1,000 kg. Some models in the lineup included options with displacements around 1.4 liters for improved in load-bearing tasks. Dimensions for the K22 double-cab variant measured 5,450 mm in length, 1,760 mm in width, and 2,120 mm in height, with a of 3,400 mm to balance maneuverability and stability. These trucks were adapted for agricultural and construction applications in China, where their compact size facilitated navigation on narrow roads and uneven terrain, with 4x2 drive configurations standard and limited 4x4 variants available for off-road demands in farming and site work. Following the end of the Suzuki partnership in 2018, production of the Freedom series continued under Changan ownership, with models remaining available as of 2025.

Current Models

As of 2025, Changhe, under China Changan Automobile Group, focuses on compact passenger cars and new energy vehicles. The A6 sedan, launched in 2017, is a key model featuring a 1.5L with 116 hp and CVT transmission, targeted at urban consumers with prices starting around 59,800 yuan. The company also produces electric variants, such as the Ruixiang C5 EV (based on A6), supporting Changan's electrification strategy for domestic and export markets. Additionally, the and Journey MPV M60 remain in production for commercial use.

Global Markets and Exports

Latin American Markets

Changhe's entry into Latin American markets occurred in the mid-2000s, primarily through and local assembly partnerships that emphasized affordable microvans for urban and commercial applications. In , the Changhe Ideal was launched in 2008 as the Effa M100, becoming the first Chinese-manufactured vehicle sold in the country and assembled from CKD kits to leverage competitive pricing and features. This introduction targeted small businesses and urban delivery needs, with the model marketed under the Effa brand to appeal to cost-conscious consumers in a market initially receptive to low-cost imports. In , Effa Motors facilitated Changhe's presence by the Ideal as the Effa Ideal starting in 2006, the year the company was founded by Effa to handle CKD assembly of imported vehicles. Operating from facilities in de Mayo, Effa focused on commercial vans and microvans, positioning them as economical options for local and small-scale transport in southern Uruguay's urban areas. The partnership allowed Changhe to penetrate the market without heavy direct investment, aligning with regional demand for compact, fuel-efficient vehicles. Further expansion reached and via specialized distributors, prioritizing microvans for urban delivery amid growing interest in Chinese imports during the late 2000s. In , Changhe debuted at the 2006 Motor Show through importer Lázaro Montes, who managed distribution for multiple Chinese brands including BYD and SAIC-Wuling, securing second-place ranking among Chinese automakers in local sales that year. The focus was on models suited for city navigation and light commercial use, capitalizing on the country's emerging openness to affordable Asian vehicles. In , Faga Motors, formed in early 2008 as part of the established Jaamsa Group, handled sales of various Changhe microvans, promoting their practicality for congested urban environments like and emphasizing reliability for delivery fleets. Sales in these markets remained modest in the late to early , with Brazilian and Uruguayan volumes estimated under 500 units annually for Effa models, reflecting limited penetration due to several challenges. Established brands like , which held dominant market share in through popular models such as the Uno and Strada, posed significant competition by offering trusted service networks and local production advantages. Additionally, protectionist measures like 's 2012 Inovar-Auto regime imposed higher import taxes and local content requirements, escalating costs for Chinese entrants like Changhe and contributing to selective buyer preferences amid quality perceptions. These factors constrained growth, though the microvans provided a niche foothold in commercial segments. The Changhe-Effa partnership has since ended, with Effa shifting to other brands.

European Markets

Changhe's entry into European markets was modest and primarily facilitated through rebadging partnerships and local distribution networks, focusing on affordable microvans and small cars suited to urban and commercial use. In , the company achieved its most notable presence via importer Martin Motors SpA, which rebadged the Changhe Landy microvan as the Martin Motors Coolcar starting around 2009. This model targeted budget-conscious buyers seeking compact utility vehicles, with sales launched in western, under Martin Motors' distribution rights. Further penetration occurred in through local importers, capitalizing on demand for low-cost light commercial vehicles in during the late 2000s. Exported models, including microvans like the Landy, underwent to comply with EU emissions standards, such as Euro 4 requirements prevalent at the time, ensuring road legality across member states and associated markets. Sales volumes remained limited, with estimates suggesting only niche adoption in and sporadic imports elsewhere, constrained by the 2008-2009 global that dampened demand for imported budget vehicles. By 2015, Martin Motors' bankruptcy effectively halted Changhe's European distribution, marking the withdrawal from the market amid ongoing economic pressures and shifting competitive dynamics.

Other International Presence

Changhe's international presence extended beyond its primary markets through limited exports to and during the , where it primarily supplied microvans and light commercial vehicles tailored to the needs of developing economies. The company sought to expand its global footprint through participation in international auto shows and leveraging agreements, though these efforts yielded modest results compared to domestic sales. Drawing briefly from experiences in other regions, Changhe emphasized cost-effective models to penetrate emerging markets. Exports faced significant challenges, including perceptions of lower quality relative to established brands and intense from Indian and Thai manufacturers offering similar low-cost alternatives. Over time, Changhe's evolved to prioritize niche segments in peripheral markets, with overseas shipments peaking at under 10% of total production—exemplified by 2,460 commercial vehicle units exported in a representative year against a capacity exceeding 200,000 units annually. By the late 2010s, Changhe's independent exports diminished following the end of the Suzuki partnership in 2018, with the brand largely absorbed into Changan's domestic operations and no significant international exports reported as of 2025.

Operations and Legacy

Production Facilities

Changhe Automobile's primary production facility is located in , Province, serving as the company's and main assembly site since its establishment in 1970. This plant has historically focused on vehicle assembly, including the integration of engines and components for microvans, light trucks, and passenger vehicles, with infrastructure encompassing multiple assembly lines equipped for stamping, welding, painting, and final assembly processes. The facility underwent significant technological upgrades through partnerships, notably with Suzuki Motor Corporation starting in the 1990s, which introduced advanced manufacturing techniques such as improved engine production lines and systems. A secondary manufacturing plant operates in Jiujiang, also in Jiangxi Province, specializing in the production of microvans and light trucks. Established as part of the company's expansion in the early , this facility includes dedicated lines for assembly and body fabrication tailored to needs, complemented by an plant that began operations in 2005 for fuel-efficient powertrains. The site contributed to Changhe's overall operational efficiency by handling specialized output, with upgrades from joint ventures enhancing automation in and processes. In the late , Changhe expanded its footprint by establishing the Hefei facility in Province through a merger with Anhui Huaihai Machinery Factory in 1998, which was further developed in the for increased capacity under the influence of Group following its acquisition in 2009. This plant added assembly capabilities for light commercial vehicles, featuring modernized lines for component integration and testing, supporting the company's growth in diverse vehicle segments. across these facilities peaked at several thousand employees during the mid-2010s, reflecting operational scale before the shift in ownership to in 2013, which prompted additional investments in production technology.

Discontinuation and Current Status

In 2022, Changhe Automobile Co., Ltd. discontinued all product lines and filed for amid the Chinese automotive industry's rapid shift toward electric vehicles (EVs) and ongoing consolidation efforts to address overcapacity and enhance competitiveness. This move aligned with broader trends where traditional (ICE) manufacturers faced intense pressure from EV adoption policies and market saturation, leading to the exit of numerous smaller players. Following the , as majority owner with a 70% stake since 2013, BAIC sold Changhe's assets to other automobile manufacturers. The cessation of operations had notable economic repercussions in , province, where Changhe had been a key employer and contributor to local output. Reports indicated workforce reductions as production halted, affecting thousands in the regional auto . Changhe left a lasting legacy as a pioneer in microvans and light commercial vehicles, introducing innovative models like the CH1018 series in the late that set benchmarks for affordable, compact . Its designs influenced subsequent domestic makers, such as those developing modern urban delivery and passenger micro-vehicles, underscoring Changhe's role in shaping the entry-level segment of the Chinese light vehicle market.

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  36. https://rocketreach.co/faga-motors-sa-email-format_b7b2738fc53bd6b8
  37. https://www.autonews.com/article/20090119/ANE09/901189953/china-carmakers-changhe-lifan-to-start-sales-in-europe/
  38. https://sophus3.com/sophus3-briefing-paper-chinese-auto-brands-in-europe-part-1/
  39. http://www.caam.org.cn/chn/4/cate_40/con_5235507.html
  40. https://www.pressreader.com/philippines/sunstar-pampanga/20180803/281663960821012
  41. http://aaa.ccpit.org/Category7/Asset/2009/Jun/08/onlineeditimages/file71244427578959.10.pdf
  42. https://m.chinabuses.org/news/11846.html
  43. https://www.globalsuzuki.com/globalnews/2005/0921.html
  44. https://www.uschina.org/articles/jiangxis-key-port-city/
  45. https://www.icecreamtutor.com/notes/industries/automobile/changhe-automobile-company/
  46. https://www.cnverify.com/company/Jiangxi-Changhe-Automobile-Co-Ltd
  47. https://www.bloomberg.com/graphics/2025-china-ev-byd-global-price-cuts/
  48. https://www.shibor.net.cn/dqs/cm-s-notice-query/fileDownLoad.do?contentId=2901554&priority=0&mode=save
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