RwandaMotor, a local dealership, has made history by launching the first-ever Changan vehicles on the Rwandan market. Changan Automobile, a Chinese state-owned manufacturer founded in 1862 and headquartered in Jiangbei, Chongqing, is recognized as one of China's top four automobile groups and the leading domestic Chinese automotive brand.
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In a launch event held on Friday, February 9, RwandaMotor introduced Changan’s first vehicles to the market.
Among them is the Changan Hunter, a 4-wheel-drive Pickup Truck designed for versatility and rugged performance. Equipped with a 1.9L Turbo Diesel Engine, 6 gears + reverse, and boasting 150 horsepower and 350 Engine Torque, it's primed to conquer any terrain. Featuring Eco leather seats, right blind spot cameras, rearview cameras and sensors, and a front and back air conditioning system, it offers comfort and safety. With a payload of one ton and a towing capacity of 3.5 tons, it's suitable for personal use or commercial operations.
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Priced at Rwf45.8 million, tax included, it's available at a promotional price throughout February.
Also unveiled is the Changan SUV CS95, a spacious 7-seater SUV equipped with a 2.0L Turbo Petrol Engine, 360 8AT gears, and an array of advanced features including 360-degree cameras, a panoramic sunroof, automatic boot door, leather interior, a 12-inch infotainment screen with smartphone connectivity, phone wireless charging, and a pedestrian protection auto brake system.
The Changan E-Star, a 100% electric vehicle, was also introduced, representing a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. With zero emissions and a range of 300 kilometers on a full charge, it offers an eco-friendly driving solution.
In addition to passenger vehicles, RwandaMotor introduced the Changan Star, a light refrigerated cargo truck designed to meet modern logistics and transportation demands, ensuring the efficient cooling and timely delivery of perishable goods.
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"Changan invests extensively in advanced research and innovative new technologies," stated Xavier Berbers, Rwanda Motor’s country director.
"Their international teams work at facilities around the world to bring customers advanced, high-tech products, trend-setting vehicle designs, innovative safety technologies, and strong performance. So, working with them, we want to bring this technology to Rwanda’s automotive market."
Kevin Mucyo, the Sales Manager at RwandaMotor, addressed potential misconceptions about vehicles manufactured in China, stating, "People have a bad understanding when it comes to equipment manufactured in China, but these cars are efficient and priced competitively compared to others in the market."
He highlighted Changan's track record of manufacturing vehicles for European brands and their resilience in various conditions worldwide. Additionally, he emphasized RwandaMotor's commitment to customer satisfaction, offering a 3-year warranty or 100,000 kilometers, along with after-sales services.
Spare parts
Mucyo revealed plans to collaborate with auto shops across the country to provide authentic Changan spare parts, cautioning against taking cars to other shops to avoid voiding the warranty.
To make car ownership more accessible, RwandaMotor has partnered with Ecobank to offer clients 14% interest loans valid for five years.
Olivier Mpenzi, the Head of Consumer Segments at Ecobank Rwanda, explained: "After noticing that a car is becoming a necessity more than a luxury, we had to make a deal to make car ownership easier for our customers. The 14% interest is low compared to competitors, and we want clients to be able to purchase their dream cars and continue to be successful in their ventures. We encourage clients to consider these cars and prospective clients to join our bank as we strive to keep them happy.”
RwandaMotor offers a diverse range of vehicles, including renowned brands like Suzuki, Renault, Fiat, Changan, and Sonalika (recognized for agricultural tractors), all of which can be financed through Ecobank loans. Moreover, RwandaMotor collaborates with sponsors such as Total Energies, Skol, Africar, Sanlam, and Securysat in enhancing its operations and providing comprehensive automotive solutions.
About RwandaMotor
RwandaMotor, established in 1967, stands as a prominent automotive dealership in Rwanda, offering a diverse range of vehicles and automotive solutions. Situated in the Gahanga Industrial Zone, RwandaMotor prides itself on its state-of-the-art showroom and service center, equipped with modern facilities and technology to meet customers' needs.
In addition to vehicle sales, RwandaMotor provides comprehensive after-sales services, including maintenance, repairs, and genuine spare parts sourced directly from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM).
For more information on RwandaMotor and its offerings, visit their website at https://rwandamotor.com.