CHANGAN

1862 — Industrial Origins

Changan traces its history to 1862, when it began as the Shanghai Foundry — a state arsenal established during the late Qing dynasty. This makes Changan one of the oldest continuously operating industrial enterprises in China, with more than 160 years of manufacturing heritage long before it became an automaker.

• Founded as a military arsenal, giving the company deep engineering and manufacturing roots.
• The enterprise eventually relocated to Chongqing, which remains Changan’s headquarters today.

1957–1990s — Becoming an Automaker

Changan built its first vehicle — an off-road utility model — in the late 1950s, marking its transition into the automotive industry. Through the following decades it grew into a major producer of microvans and small commercial vehicles, becoming a household name for affordable, practical transport in China.

• Produced one of China’s earliest domestically built off-road vehicles in 1958.
• Established itself as a leading maker of microvans and light commercial vehicles.

2001–2010 — Joint Ventures and Rapid Growth

As China’s car market boomed, Changan formed landmark joint ventures with global automakers, gaining access to advanced technology and management expertise. These partnerships helped establish Changan as one of China’s "Big Four" state-owned automotive groups, alongside SAIC, FAW, and Dongfeng.

• Changan Ford established a major joint venture producing Ford models for the Chinese market.
• Partnerships with Mazda and Suzuki expanded Changan’s technical capabilities.
• Confirmed as one of China’s "Big Four" automakers, backed by the state.