Master Changan Motors Unveils DEEPAL: A Leap Toward Mass EV Adoption in Pakistan

On August 16th, 2024, Master Changan Motors Limited (MCML), a joint venture between Master Group of Industries and Changan International, launched Changan’s electric-first brand, DEEPAL, at Dolmen Mall Clifton, Karachi. This event marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s automotive industry as the country embraces electric vehicles (EVs) with open arms. The brand introduction is set to catalyze the mass adoption of EVs in Pakistan, a nation heavily reliant on fossil fuels.

First-Hand Experience at Dolmen Mall

From August 16th to August 25th, visitors to Dolmen Mall Clifton can experience DEEPAL firsthand. MCML unveiled two cutting-edge models under the DEEPAL brand: the L07, a pure electric sports luxury sedan, and the S07, a premium electric SUV. Both models boast impressive performance, delivering 250 HP and 320 Nm of instant torque, allowing them to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds.

Impressive Range and Advanced Technology

The Ternary Lithium battery, developed by CATL, powers both models, providing an exceptional range of up to 540 km for the L07 and 485 km for the S07. These vehicles are not only high-performing but also embody a futuristic design language, having won the prestigious German RedDot design award in 2023.

DEEPAL’s appeal is further enhanced by its competitive pricing, comparable to traditional gasoline and hybrid vehicles. Additionally, MCML is offering a complementary 7kW fast home charger with every purchase, capable of fully charging the vehicle in just 5 to 8 hours.

A Global Partnership for Local Impact

The DEEPAL brand represents a collaboration between three global giants: Changan, Huawei, and CATL. Changan, one of China’s largest and oldest automobile manufacturers, developed the EV-first EPA-01 platform. Huawei contributed with its advanced Harmony OS intelligent software, using the Snapdragon 8155 processor, while CATL provided the state-of-the-art Ternary Lithium battery. This partnership ensures that DEEPAL offers the best value to customers through economies of scale, with a focus on long-range performance and reliability.

Addressing Pakistan’s Economic Challenges

With 41% of Pakistan’s energy mix now based on non-fossil fuel sources, the shift towards EVs is not just an environmental imperative but an economic one as well. Pakistan’s oil import bill, amounting to USD 15.16 billion, is the largest burden on the country’s foreign reserves. Mass adoption of EVs, especially those charged using home-installed solar systems, could significantly reduce this import dependency and improve the nation’s economic condition.

Overcoming Barriers to EV Adoption

Danial Malik, a key figure at MCML, outlined four major challenges to mass EV adoption in Pakistan: introducing the right EV products at competitive prices, ensuring efficient battery technology for long driving ranges, establishing a robust nationwide after-sales support network, and expanding the national charging infrastructure.

Master Changan Motors has addressed these challenges head-on. By pricing DEEPAL vehicles competitively, offering best-in-class ranges of up to 540 km, and providing an industry-leading warranty of 8 years or 240,000 km, MCML is setting new standards in the Pakistani EV market. Furthermore, the company has equipped 23 Changan dealerships across 17 cities to support EV owners.

Expanding Charging Infrastructure

One of the biggest hurdles to EV adoption in Pakistan is the lack of charging infrastructure. MCML is committed to expanding the current national charging network from 5 cities to 17 cities, with 23 new charging points planned. This expansion is crucial for building consumer confidence and encouraging the switch to electric vehicles.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Master Changan Motors plans to introduce 3 to 4 new locally assembled EV models in the next two years, further driving the mass adoption of electric vehicles in Pakistan. With its innovative approach and commitment to sustainability, MCML is poised to lead the way in transforming Pakistan’s automotive industry, benefiting both the environment and the economy.

Fahad Anwar

Fahad, a dynamic entrepreneur and fervent marketing enthusiast, channels his passion for contemporary trends into captivating written pieces. Beyond the business realm, he finds solace in the exhilaration of travel and the strategic thrill of tennis during leisure moments. Connect with Fahad’s insights on trending topics via his Twitter handle @fahad164. For inquiries and collaboration opportunities, reach out to him at fahad164@gmail.com or fahad@themediaparadigm.com.