DEEPAL, Changan Automobile’s intelligent electric mobility brand, has officially launched its third model in the UAE within just ten months, unveiling the new G318 at an immersive event at Dubai’s Nara Desert Escape. Building on the regional success of the S05 and S07, the G318 brings a bold, off-road-ready interpretation of the brand’s Super Hybrid technology to one of the world’s most mobility-forward markets.
The launch reinforces Changan’s growing investment in the Middle East as the brand continues to expand its electrified portfolio with exclusive importer-distributor Al Tayer Motors. Priced from AED 129,900, the G318 arrives with a six-year or 150,000 km vehicle warranty and an eight-year or 150,000 km battery warranty.
The future of mobility
For Changan, DEEPAL represents much more than a product line – it’s the brand’s strategic expression of where mobility is heading globally. Speaking to Arabian Business, Xiao Feng, General Manager of Changan Automobile’s Middle East and Africa Division, said DEEPAL embodies the company’s long-term vision for smarter, cleaner, and more intuitive transportation. “DEEPAL is the natural evolution of Changan Automobile’s long-term global strategy, bringing together decades of R&D investment with a clear commitment to electrification and intelligent mobility,” explained Xiao. “With DEEPAL, Changan is redefining what modern mobility means: vehicles that are cleaner, smarter and designed to fit seamlessly into the lifestyles of global consumers.”
This philosophy underpins the G318, which integrates a new generation of super-hybrid architecture, sophisticated driver-assistance systems, and sustainability-driven engineering. Xiao added: “DEEPAL represents our ambition to create vehicles that are safer, smarter, more emotional, and more sustainable for customers everywhere.”
Why the UAE leads the region for DEEPAL’s expansion
The G318’s UAE debut reflects Changan’s confidence in a market increasingly recognised as a global testbed for advanced mobility. “The Middle East is rapidly becoming a global reference point for next-generation mobility, and the UAE sits at the heart of this transformation,” noted Xiao. He cites government support for electrification, extensive EV infrastructure, and a consumer base seeking performance, design, and cutting-edge technology.
The success of the S05 and S07 in the Emirates earlier this year confirmed strong appetite for the brand’s approach. “The UAE’s early adoption of electrified mobility makes it an ideal launch destination for one of DEEPAL’s flagship SUVs,” he added. Ashok Khanna, CEO of Al Tayer Motors, echoed this sentiment at the launch, calling the G318 “a game-changer for customers seeking adventure without compromising on environmental responsibility or cutting-edge technology.”
Engineered for the GCC
Changan has invested heavily in adapting DEEPAL models to regional driving demands—from scorching heat to desert terrain. Every model undergoes a rigorous three-month GCC endurance programme. “The G318 was engineered with these exact conditions in mind,” said Xiao. “From thermal-resistant components to software calibrations optimised for heat, the vehicle has been refined to ensure stability, safety and comfort for any condition.” This includes validation on sand, steep gradients and high-speed highways, with particular focus on cooling systems, battery management, and AC performance.
At the heart of the G318 is DEEPAL’s Super-Hybrid powertrain, combining dual-motor 4WD capability with range-extended electrification to deliver an EV-like driving feel. The SUV accelerates from 0–100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and achieves a leading energy conversion rate of 3.63 kWh per litre of fuel. “Unlike conventional hybrids that primarily focus on fuel savings, the G318 elevates efficiency while delivering powerful torque, refined control and highly intelligent energy distribution,” explained Xiao. He describes it as a hybrid “that delivers an elevated experience in every sense.”
A standout is the Magic Carpet Suspension system, which integrates CDC adaptive damping, air suspension, and active terrain scanning. Combined with the ET Intelligent All Terrain System, the G318 automatically adjusts engine, suspension and differential settings in real time – making off-road driving accessible even to novices.
Modern design with user-centred intelligence
The SUV’s exterior adopts DEEPAL’s ‘Meteorolite Cutting’ design, pairing crisp geometric lines with a commanding profile. Inside, a minimalist cockpit is anchored by a large central control screen, premium materials and full-cabin sound-insulation.
Intelligent features include bilingual voice interaction, online navigation, remote mobile control, and advanced safety systems such as Integrated Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Change Assist, Blind Spot Detection, and a 540° panoramic visibility suite.
Xiao emphasises that the technology is designed around everyday usability: “DEEPAL’s philosophy places the user at the centre of every innovation. This blend of intelligence and practicality ensures that every journey feels smoother, safer and more connected.”
Sustainability-driven
Sustainability sits at the core of the G318’s development. Xiao highlighted Changan’s ongoing shift toward cleaner manufacturing: “Our Chongqing plant used 37.76 million kWh of green electricity in 2022 alone, reducing carbon emissions by 32,000 tonnes.”
The G318 features eco-friendly cabin materials and Changan’s Golden Shield Battery, which has recorded zero spontaneous combustion incidents across more than 500,000 units in service.
Presence through partnership
The company’s collaboration with Al Tayer Motors is a cornerstone of its regional strategy. “This partnership not only strengthens our market entry, but elevates the customer experience from day one,” said Xiao. From showroom presence to after-sales support, the goal is a seamless ownership experience aligned with premium global standards.
According to Feng, the G318 will resonate with “drivers who value exploration, technology, and purposeful design” – from weekday commuters to weekend off-road enthusiasts.
He sees the G318 as a milestone for the brand’s long-term ambitions in the Middle East. “The G318 is more than a new model. It is a signal of where mobility in the Middle East is heading, and DEEPAL will play a leading role in shaping that future.”
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