Master Changan Motors Ltd (MCML), in collaboration with Changan International, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first automaker in Pakistan to embark on volume exports. The company has successfully shipped the initial batch of 14 Oshan X7s to Kenya, marking Pakistan’s foray into the international SUV market and deepening economic ties with China.
This remarkable accomplishment aligns perfectly with the 10th anniversary of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), underscoring the robust economic bond shared between these two nations. In a special export event held in Karachi, the CEO of Master Changan, Mr. Danial Malik, shared the company’s forward-looking vision. He stated, “We’re embarking on our next significant journey to bring our dream to life: making Master Changan an integral part of Changan’s global vehicle supply chain within the ‘Vast Ocean Plan.’ This milestone firmly establishes Pakistan as a producer and exporter of top-notch vehicles worldwide.”Kenya and Tanzania are just the beginning, as we look to expand our export volumes.”
Earlier this year, Mr. Zhu Huarong, Chairman of Changan Automobile, unveiled the ‘Vast Ocean’ plan at the 2023 Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition. This strategic plan outlines Changan’s commitment to international expansion, focusing on intelligent low-carbon core technology. With a dedicated investment of US$10 billion in overseas markets, Changan aims to increase its global presence, targeting regions including Europe, America, the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, and CIS markets, reaching 90% of the global automotive market by 2030. As Changan’s right-hand drive (RHD) manufacturing hub, Master Changan Pakistan will play a pivotal role in Changan’s ‘Vast Ocean’ plan, serving RHD markets across the globe.
The successful export of ‘Made in Pakistan’ vehicles hinges on the policies and incentives provided by the Federal Government to promote the automotive industry. Danial Malik acknowledged the government’s support, saying, “We sincerely thank our government for the auto export policy 2021-2026. However, the auto industry needs the government to create policies that increase volumes locally, leading to improved economies of scale, deeper localization, and enhanced global competitiveness for automakers.”
Pakistan’s most luxurious sport utility vehicle, the Oshan X7, is leading the way in this innovative project. This vehicle boasts a rapid acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.23 seconds because to its powerful 1.5L turbocharged engine and its remarkable proportions.
The Oshan X7 presents a remarkable display of advanced engineering, luxurious interiors, and an extensive array of state-of-the-art amenities, all complementing its exceptional performance. Adaptive cruise control (ACC), autonomous emergency braking (AEB), and forward collision warning (FW) are among the cutting-edge technologies that enhance road safety and contribute to its overall improvement. Passengers also enjoy the comfort of ventilated and heated seats. What truly sets the X7 apart is its ability to comfortably accommodate up to seven individuals, making it a distinctive and versatile choice that caters to a wide range of user preferences and needs.
The Pakistani automotive sector has already proposed measures to make auto exports a sustainable endeavor and Master Changan is blazing a trail for the nation’s auto industry, with an eye on even greater horizons in the future.
