Bermaz Auto may add Deepal EVs to Its lineup: What you need to know

KUALA LUMPUR: Reports from Maybank Investment Bank suggest that Bermaz Auto (BAuto) may soon expand its growing portfolio by adding Deepal to its lineup.

Currently, BAuto represents well-known brands such as Mazda, KIA, and the electric vehicle (EV) marque, XPENG.

If confirmed, Deepal's models would be sourced from Thailand, where a state-of-the-art factory is under construction and expected to begin operations by mid-2025.

Deepal is a sub-brand of Changan Automobile, one of China’s largest car manufacturers. Known domestically as Shenlan, Deepal was created to address growing demand for premium electric and smart vehicles, both in China and international markets.

Deepal’s lineup is built on Changan’s dedicated EV platform, with a focus on performance, range, and advanced technology. Unlike budget-oriented competitors, Deepal targets the premium segment, offering EVs with modern design, high-end interiors, and cutting-edge features.

The brand has launched three models so far. The Deepal L07 is a mid-size sedan available in Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) and Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) versions.

The BEV offers 218 horsepower and up to 700 km of range, while the EREV pairs a 1.5-litre petrol engine (as a generator) with a 258-horsepower motor, extending the range to 1,200 km. The L07 also includes Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities supported by 27 sensors and Qualcomm’s SA8155P chip.

The Deepal S07, a mid-size crossover SUV, also comes in BEV and EREV configurations. The BEV is offered with 218 or 258 horsepower motors and ranges of 520 km or 620 km.

The EREV variant combines a 238-horsepower motor with a 1.5-liter petrol engine for a range of 700 to 1,200 km. Designed in Italy, the S07 includes a 12.3-inch heads-up display, Huawei’s Harmony OS, and CATL-supplied batteries.

The Deepal G318 is a mid-size SUV with a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine as a range extender, paired with electric motors producing 248 horsepower (rear-wheel-drive) or 424 horsepower (all-wheel-drive).

It comes with battery options of 18.4 kWh or 35.1 kWh, and features a rugged design with LED lighting, a roof rack, and off-road capabilities.

Changan plans to expand Deepal’s reach to Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, leveraging partnerships with Huawei for software and CATL for batteries. 

These partnerships equip Deepal with the resources to establish a foothold in the expanding EV market. Despite being a relatively new player, Deepal is emerging as a strong contender in the premium EV segment.

If Maybank's report turns out to be true, with the support of Bermaz Auto, the brand could soon add Malaysia to its growing list of global markets.