Changan CX30: Steady Progress and Precise Steps Toward Victory in the Autonomous Vehicle Field

by myc0n5o52 on 2012-02-15 16:01:03

In today's car market, most domestic brands operate within the range of small cars and economy sedans. Although all domestic brands are well aware of the strategic significance of advancing into the mid-to-high-end segment for their enterprises, how to break through is not a unified concept among them, and the paths they choose vary. In comparison, Changan seems to have opted for a more prudent route, in short: "meticulous every step," gradually ascending. The CX30 represents Changan's steady progress.

What exactly are the demands of mid-to-high-end car consumers? For Changan, this is a completely new topic. But some clues can be found from the CX30.

Speaking of the CX30, many car enthusiasts would naturally think of the Yueshang. One could say that the Yueshang is the most standout model under Changan's passenger car lineup. The CX30, with its appearance resembling the "Focus," may not be as stunning as the Yueshang, but it once again refreshes the outside world's fixed impression of Changan Automobiles after the Yueshang. A fashionable and smooth overall design, sharp waistline, substantial rear, and lively taillights blend the dynamism of youth with the increasing maturity during an upward phase, cautious yet full of vitality. The styling of the CX30 very much aligns with the mood of the post-80s generation who have "established themselves by thirty" and also fits well with Changan Automobile's brand image during its product transformation period.

The grand and intelligent exterior of the CX30 is just a fleeting glance; its super-large and reasonably configured space truly offers a refreshing experience to the outside world. A vehicle width of 1.8 meters is enough to make similar-level models pale in comparison. The ultra-wide interior design provides consumers with a more comfortable driving and riding space. Spending money sometimes is for moments of enjoyment, and if one can obtain extra value with a more reasonable price, why wouldn't consumers be happy? Clearly, Changan understands this principle.

No matter what, buying a car is still a significant expense for families nowadays. For increasingly savvy consumers, the appearance and interior might attract their attention, but they may not necessarily sway their rationality. The essence of breakthrough in independent innovation should still focus on quality as a continuous goal. From the CX30, we can see Changan's "strictness" towards quality. It is said that at the launch of the CX30, the prototype underwent multiple redesigns, especially in the tuning of the chassis where Changan put in great effort. Not only did they co-develop with the renowned British company MIRA, but they also underwent professional tuning by PRODRIVE, complemented by the original imported AISIN intelligent automatic transmission system. All of this was done to provide drivers with a smoother and more stable driving experience. Hard work pays off; the advantages of the CX30's chassis and handling were practically certified during the event "Changan CX30 Thirty Million Quality Journey" held by Changan, and gained unanimous recognition from the market: "The handling of the CX30 is definitely commendable, especially during turns, the car is not small, yet the steering is light. The overall feeling is very solid and stable, not inferior to similar joint venture models, very impressive."

In addition, in the competition with mid-to-high-end cars, the biggest advantage of economical models is fuel consumption, which is currently the main selling point for many domestic brands. In this aspect, Changan Automobile has further leveraged this advantage, taking the lead, and launched two low-carbon versions in the 1.6L version of the CX30, equipped with the STT intelligent fuel-saving system developed by Germany's BOSCH. This system implants an enhanced motor with idle-stop functionality onto traditional engines, causing the engine to completely shut down when idle parking conditions are met (for example, waiting for a red light in the city, stopping and shifting to neutral). When the car needs to start moving again, whether stepping on the gas or engaging the clutch to shift gears, the idle-stop motor system will quickly respond, rapidly starting the engine, seamlessly connecting, indistinguishable from traditional starts. This system can save up to 15% of fuel consumption under urban road conditions, undoubtedly helping owners reduce expenses.

We cannot deny here that Changan Automobile's brand appeal still needs improvement. However, from the CX30, we see Changan's attempts and courage to enhance its brand and products. We can say that the CX30 carries Changan's strategic significance of entering the mid-to-high-end car market. Although, from the model positioning and price perspective, the CX30 is not strictly speaking a mid-to-high-end model. However, from the technological content and fashionable elements endowed by Changan Automobile to this car, it is evident that presenting the CX30 has already begun to realize Changan Automobile's upward brand ideal.

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