Dongfeng unloads first vehicles in Brazil and plans network of 60 dealerships

The Brazilian startup company Lume Robotics has implemented driverless transport systems for operation in industrial facilities, including factories and ports. For example, a bus transporting employees inside a metallurgical plant in the state of Espírito Santo operates without a driver.

Lume Robotics, a startup from the state of Capixaba, also provides driverless truck services for companies such as Suzano, ArcelorMittal, Portocel, Ypê, and Mercedes-Benz. Currently, ten autonomous vehicles are distributed among six clients.

For instance, at the Suzano facility, four trucks are used to deliver products from production lines to the distribution center. Specifically, at the ArcelorMittal Tubarão site, located in Serra (Espírito Santo), a Marcopolo minibus began transporting personnel at the end of June.

The software uses artificial intelligence to map routes, recognize both stationary and moving obstacles, and make maneuvering decisions similar to those of a driver. According to Lume, the system reacts in a tenth of a second, which is faster than a human. The company estimates that automation allows for a reduction in operating costs by approximately 25% through fuel savings and reduced maintenance costs.

Currently, this technology is limited to private territories, such as industrial zones, ports, and factory grounds, where vehicles follow pre-set routes. Lume was founded in 2019 following ten years of research into autonomous vehicles at the Federal University of Espírito Santo (Ufes).

Before establishing the company, the same team assisted Embraer in testing the Legacy 500 aircraft, which could move autonomously on the runway in 2019. Initial funding was secured through the Centelha federal government program, which provided scholarships and equipment. Since then, according to founder Rânik Guidolini, the startup has been growing at an average of 150% annually and has attracted nearly 5 million reais from private investors.

The next project is a cabless electric truck being developed jointly with Suzano for cellulose transportation. The prototype is planned for completion by 2027, with trials scheduled for 2028. During the same period, Lume aims to enter the international market; negotiations are underway with companies from Uruguay, Chile, and Mexico, and the company intends to expand its operations to reach about 12 clients and 20 vehicles.

Automaker Changan has introduced a new lineup of electric and hybrid SUVs aimed at the Mzansi (South Africa) market. These models were showcased at the Mondial de l’Auto 2026 in Paris, France.

At the global show, the company presented its worldwide brand portfolio, debuted the NEVO brand in Europe, and displayed new vehicles intended for South Africa.

Among the new arrivals are the fully electric NEVO Q05, the larger crossover NEVO Q06, and the updated Deepal S07, which will also receive a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) version.

The exhibition in Paris marks another step in the international expansion of the Chinese automaker, particularly in Europe, where it has operated for 25 years. The company has intensified its European strategy by launching the Changan and AVATR brands in Germany in March 2025, followed by Deepal at the IAA Mobility show in Munich in September of the same year.

Zhang Fei, General Manager of Changan Group, stated that 'Changan is here for the long haul, putting down roots and developing in Europe.' The company plans to open approximately 400 sales and service points across 15 European countries by the end of 2026, with this number expected to rise to 650 by 2027.

This strategy is part of Changan's broader ambition to bring its range of electrified vehicles and intelligent technologies to more international markets.

NEVO Q05

One of the key vehicles presented at the show was the brand-new NEVO Q05—a compact electric SUV designed as the first model for the NEVO brand globally. NEVO represents a line of new energy vehicles focused on families, targeting buyers looking for practical cars with advanced technology.

According to Changan, the NEVO brand has attracted one million customers over three years, and the Q05 has been a bestseller among compact SUVs in China for six consecutive months. The manufacturer claims the model features a spacious cabin, an efficient electric powertrain, and intelligent systems, and holds a five-star safety rating.

The Q05 is targeted at urban professionals and families who are price-conscious and seek an electric vehicle for daily commuting. The model is planned for introduction in Europe in the first quarter of 2027, and in South Africa in the third quarter.

Information regarding local pricing, battery capacity, and range was not disclosed in the announcement.

NEVO Q06

Changan also unveiled the NEVO Q06—a larger mid-size crossover with a more streamlined design. This vehicle, designed in Europe, is confirmed for South Africa, although its local launch date has yet to be determined.

The model combines an electrified powertrain with a claimed electric-only range of 100 km and a total range exceeding 1000 km. The Q06 features a premium cabin and an Intelligent Instrument Panel, emphasizing comfort and technology.

The combination of pure electric driving and extended overall range may appeal to drivers who want the benefits of electrification without relying solely on charging during long journeys. Further details on specifications for South Africa, powertrain configuration, and pricing are yet to be announced.

Updated Deepal S07

Buyers in South Africa are already familiar with the Deepal S07—an electric coupe SUV that blends a sporty silhouette with rear-wheel drive and a technologically equipped interior. At the Paris Motor Show, Changan presented an updated version with a more modern design, as well as a new Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) variant.

Both models are scheduled to arrive in South Africa in the third quarter of 2027. The PHEV version will expand the capabilities of the S07, offering an alternative to fully electric driving. Plug-in hybrids combine an electric motor and a rechargeable battery with an internal combustion engine, allowing movement solely on electricity for a limited distance, depending on the vehicle's characteristics and operating conditions.

The Deepal S05 PHEV with right-hand drive was also shown at the event, but its launch date in South Africa was not specified.

Other Hybrid Models from Changan

The manufacturer's presentation in Paris also included the CS55 (UNI-S) PLUS BlueCore HEV, which appeared outside of China for the first time. This hybrid vehicle was part of a broader display of electrified transport, reflecting the company's strategy to offer various powertrain options in its portfolio.

Unlike plug-in hybrids, traditional hybrids typically charge their battery using the vehicle's powertrain and regenerative braking, rather than requiring external charging. Changan did not confirm whether the CS55 (UNI-S) PLUS BlueCore HEV will be available in South Africa.

AVATR T09 Concept

In the premium segment, the AVATR CONCEPT T09 concept demonstrated the brand's approach to technology-focused luxury SUVs. Its super hybrid powertrain combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 180 kW with two rear electric motors, each delivering 225 kW. The total claimed output of the system is 630 kW.

This concept showcases Changan's interest in combining electrified powertrains with high performance and premium positioning. However, the T09 remains a concept within the announcement, and production or launch plans for South Africa have not been confirmed.

Marinus Vanter, Regional Manager of Jameel Motors South Africa, welcomed the presentation of vehicles intended for the local market. He noted, 'It is wonderful to see vehicles intended for South Africa being presented at the 2026 Paris Motor Show.' Vanter characterized the Mondial de l'Auto as one of the leading global auto shows and highlighted the presentation of Changan's global brands and product portfolio.

For South African drivers, these announcements provide a preliminary view of the brand's upcoming electrified offerings. The NEVO Q05 and the updated Deepal S07 are slated for local introduction in the third quarter of 2027, while the NEVO Q06 is confirmed for South Africa without a final launch date.

The Deepal S05 PHEV with right-hand drive and the CS55 (UNI-S) PLUS BlueCore HEV were also presented, though local availability for these models was not confirmed. Prices, final specifications, and local trim levels will become important factors as the confirmed vehicles approach release. Currently, the Changan Paris show signals an intention to expand its range with more electric and hybrid options, giving South African buyers a preview of what the brand holds for Mzansi.