Deepal Brand To Enter Malaysia; S07 SUV Launch Imminent

Malaysia’s automotive scene is set for another shake-up as a brand new automotive player, Deepal, prepares to make its official debut. Represented locally by Bermaz Changan Sdn Bhd (BCSB), a subsidiary of Bermaz Auto (BAuto), Deepal’s arrival will mark a new chapter in the country’s rapidly evolving electric vehicle (EV) sector. Deepal (translates to ‘Deep Blue’) is one of the brands owned by Changan Automobile, considered one of the ‘Big 4′ of Chinese car makers.

This isn’t Changan’s first foray into Malaysia however, as the company previously had presence here under the Chana brand. Now with Deepal, it wants to bring with it innovative technology, premium experience and a focus on safety.

Deepal S07: Technology, Performance, & Range

Marking the brand’s debut in Malaysia will be the Deepal S07 SUV which boasts a modern, aerodynamic design and advanced in-car technology. Its dimensions of 4,750 mm (length), 1,930 mm (width), and 1,625 mm (height), along with its 2,900 mm wheelbase, and 165 mm ground clearance, put it squarely in the competitive 5-seater D-segment for SUVs. The preview car is shod with 255/45 R20 Dunlop SP Sport Maxx tyres. Additionally it will be offered here in BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) form, although a range extender version is sold in other markets. 

A single motor will drive the rear axle and provide 190 kW (258 PS) and 320 Nm of torque. Its top speed is limited to 180 km/h although it can do a 0 – 100 km/h sprint in 7.6 seconds. Providing energy is a 66.8 kWh Ternary Lithium (NMC) battery pack which offers a driving range of up to 485 km based on the NEDC cycle. There is also a long range variant in Thailand where right-hand-drive Deepal are assembled i.e. S07 L which has a 560 km range thanks to the larger 79.97 kWh NMC battery. According to Changan Thailand, it takes about 35 minutes to get from 30% to 80% state-of-charge via DC charging. The S07 also has a regenerative braking system as well as vehicle-to-load capability, which are both common features nowadays.

Stepping inside, the S07’s dashboard features a 15.6″ Sunflower infotainment touchscreen powered by a Snapdragon 8155 chip. Other highlights include an AR-HUD (augmented reality head-up display), a 40W wireless charging pad, gesture recognition, 14-way power-adjustable leather seats, a panoramic glass roof, digital key and premium headrest audio.

The exterior sports a modern, sporty aesthetic, featuring high resolution digital headlights with interactive light effects, a full-width taillight with a spoiler, as well as electric suction doors with frameless glass windows and rain detection auto close. 

Deepal S07 Safety Benchmark

Deepal is also not just entering the market with promises; it’s entering with proof. The Deepal S07 has secured a coveted 5-star safety rating from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP), demonstrating its commitment to occupant and pedestrian protection. ANCAP, renowned for its rigorous crash testing and safety assessments, awarded the S07 with exceptional scores:

• Adult Occupant Protection: 95% (matching the highest-rated in the current 2023-2025 criteria, equivalent to models like the Toyota Camry)

• Child Occupant Protection: 86%

• Safety Assist: 78%

• Vulnerable Road User Protection: 74%

The S07 also performed commendably in oblique pole and side-impact crash tests for the driver, with indications of minimal injury risk. It also showcased excellent results in frontal offset tests for front occupants and was found to minimise injury risks to occupants in other vehicles involved in a crash. Additionally, its child safety features were recognised with maximum points in both front offset and side impact tests.

The S07 also features retractable door handles that automatically extend after a crash, while still being operable without power, ensuring easy access for emergency responders.

Possible Pricing

While there is no pricing indication for Malaysia, the Deepal S07 can be expected to be priced within the RM180,000 range. In Thailand, it is retailing at THB1,399,000 (RM184,068). 

The official launch is said to be in the 2nd or 3rd quarter of this year. And as with all things Bermaz Auto, expect a comprehensive warranty programme.