Chinese EV brand Changan launches in Hull with new JCT600 dealership

JCT600 is bringing groundbreaking new Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer brand Changan to Hull for the first time, with the launch of a dedicated dealership which will increase choice and value for customers as demand for EVs continues to accelerate.

The new Changan dealership, which opened on 9 March, operates from JCT600’s Priory Tec Park premises in Hessle. The site forms part of a wider redevelopment that will create a multi-brand electric vehicle hub for the Humber region.

The launch marks a further step in JCT600’s expanding electric vehicle strategy as the family-owned group continues to diversify its manufacturer partnerships and respond to evolving customer demand.

The Hull dealership will provide sales, servicing and aftersales support for Changan customers, with particular focus on the brand’s Deepal electric vehicle range, including the Deepal S07 electric SUV and the recently launched Deepal S05 compact SUV. Recruitment and training for both models is also taking place as the brand establishes its presence locally.

JCT600 executive chairman John Tordoff said: “Hull plays an important role in our regional network, and the introduction of Changan reflects our confidence in the city and the wider Humber economy. By developing what will become a shared EV location at Priory Tec Park, we’re creating the foundations for long-term growth while giving customers access to some of the most innovative new electric vehicles entering the UK market.”

Changan is one of China’s longest established automotive manufacturers, with more than a century of industrial heritage and a rapidly growing international footprint. The company entered the UK market in September last year and focuses on electric and hybrid vehicles that combine advanced technology with European-influenced design and engineering.

Nic Thomas, managing director of Changan UK said: “Hull is an important location for us as we continue to grow the Changan retail network in the UK, and partnering with JCT600 gives customers in the Humber region access to a trusted and experienced automotive retailer.

As more customers consider switching to electric vehicles, it’s essential that they have the right local expertise and support, and this partnership delivers exactly that while enabling ownership of a new generation of electric SUVs.”

Craig Saunders, brand director for JCT600 Approved, Kia and Changan, said: “Our approach with Changan is about building the brand steadily and sustainably and Hull gives us the space to do that.

“We’ll be building dedicated sales and administration teams and investing fully in aftersales support, ensuring customers have access to trained technicians and the service capability needed as ownership levels increase.”

Founded in Bradford in 1946, JCT600 is one of Yorkshire’s largest family-owned businesses, representing 19 automotive manufacturers and operating more than 50 dealerships and automotive businesses across Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, Derbyshire and the North East.