JCT600 announces first Chinese vehicle manufacturer partnership with Changan - at Doncaster dealership

Changan vehicles will be introduced at JCT600’s Wheatley Hall Road dealership from this month, creating several new jobs over the coming year in Doncaster. The Chinese car brand will be the 18th brand to join the JCT600 portfolio.

JCT600 executive chairman John Tordoff said: “We’re delighted to welcome Changan to the JCT600 family. This is our first partnership with a Chinese automotive brand and Changan’s focus on electric vehicles, innovative technology and forward-thinking design aligns perfectly with our commitment to offering customers the very best in modern motoring.

“Doncaster provides the ideal location for this exciting new venture as we continue to grow our portfolio of future-focused brands.”

The JCT600 Approved Centre dealership in Doncaster will initially offer customers the opportunity to view and test drive the Changan Deepal S07 model, launched in the UK in September. JCT600 will have three variants of the firm’s flagship vehicle on display, with one available as a demonstrator. Other models in the Chinese manufacturer’s range of Italian-designed EV and hybrid cars include the Deepal S05, available in the UK in early 2026.

Craig Saunders, brand director for JCT600 Approved, Kia and Changan, said: “Changan is already a top-five vehicle brand in China, and with its Turin design studio, and a Birmingham R&D Centre and parts depot, its investment in the support infrastructure in the UK and Europe was part of the decision to bring its vehicles to market within the JCT600 family of brands at an exciting stage in the growth of the UK market.

“We’re already recruiting sales and administration staff here to support Changan customers, and we are investing in the complete range of after-sales services as the brand matures in the year ahead. Changan customers will also be able to book repairs with fully trained and certified technicians when service schedules demand,” he added.

Nic Thomas, UK managing director, Changan, added: “We are proud to be partnering with JCT600 as we continue to introduce Changan to customers across the UK. With nearly 80 years of heritage and a strong reputation for exceptional customer service, JCT600 is an ideal partner to support our next phase of growth.

“As one of China’s most established and innovative automotive manufacturers, we are committed to bringing UK drivers high-quality, thoughtfully designed electric vehicles that deliver real-world practicality and enjoyment. We look forward to working closely with the JCT600 team as we build our presence in the UK and offer customers a compelling new choice in the EV and hybrid market.”

The launch of the Changan brand in Doncaster follows JC600’s refurbishment of its Mercedes-Benz dealership in the city, which was completed in October, putting improved customer experience at the heart of the building.

Founded in Bradford in 1946, JCT600 has grown to become one of Yorkshire’s largest family-owned businesses, representing 18 of the world’s leading car brands. The firm has more than 50 dealerships and businesses, located from Derbyshire and Lincolnshire across to Yorkshire and the North East.

Changan was established in China over 150 years ago and in recent years the company has become one of China’s largest automotive groups, operating 14 manufacturing bases and 39 plants worldwide. As of October 2025, total sales of Changan’s Chinese brands exceeded 29.5 million units.