Interviewing a representative from Changan Automotive, we dive into the rich history behind this prominent Chinese company, tracing its roots back to the Shanghai Arsenal, established in 1862.
**Interviewer:** Changan Automotive has a legacy of 162 years. How is it that a company with such a long history continues to feel increasingly youthful today?
**Representative:** That’s a great question. Our journey reflects resilience through adversity. Let me share three key stories that highlight our spirit.
**Interviewer:** Please go ahead.
**Representative:** The first story captures the theme of struggle. In the fall of 1937, amid chaos and conflict, our predecessor, the Jinling Arsenal, found itself in a life-or-death relocation scenario. With the Japanese forces advancing, it was crucial to transport machinery and equipment to Chongqing.
Employees undertook the perilous journey, navigating over 2,500 kilometers of treacherous waters under constant bombardment from enemy planes. At one dramatic moment in Yichang, equipment was lost when bombs struck, sinking it to the riverbed. Workers, tied with ropes, jumped into the frigid waters to retrieve the vital machinery as planes targeted their efforts. Tragically, many sacrificed their lives, united by a shared conviction: “As long as there’s life, the machinery must survive.”
In just three months, the Jinling Arsenal successfully relocated over 4,300 tons of equipment, a remarkable achievement at that time when it was renamed the 21st Arsenal. Despite suffering 14 bombings and the loss of seven workers, production did not falter. In fact, they contributed a staggering 60% of China’s ammunition for the front lines, solidifying their place as one of China’s largest munitions factories.
**Interviewer:** What an incredible testament to bravery and determination! What’s the second story?
**Representative:** The second story embodies courage as well. In 1957, Changan was tasked with an urgent mission: to produce the first domestically-made Jeep for the upcoming 10th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China. The challenge, however, was significant—not only was there a lack of technical knowledge, but we also had no equipment whatsoever.
Yet, our resilient workforce faced the challenge head-on. With no blueprints, they hand-measured every component, using basic tools to laboriously shape the vehicle from the ground up. Despite the harsh conditions, the craftsmanship was exquisite. By May 1958, the first prototype emerged, named “Changjiang,” after the Yangtze River.
On October 1, 1959, at the 10th National Day parade, 20 Changjiang Jeep models proudly rolled past Tiananmen Square, receiving applause and recognition from the nation.
**Interviewer:** Such a remarkable achievement! And what’s the third story you’d like to share?
**Representative:** The third story is about innovation and youthfulness. In 2006, a group of young Chinese designers made their way to the industrial district of Turin, Italy. There, they launched the Changan Automotive Design Center, marking a significant step in our global reach.
This center brought together 199 talented designers from around the world, focusing on the aesthetics and development of Changan vehicles. In the fashion-forward environment of Italy, we fused local creativity with our vision for innovation. Over time, our research and development network expanded globally, establishing centers in cities like Yokohama, Detroit, and Birmingham. This expanded framework enables us to collaborate seamlessly and develop modern vehicles that reflect both style and practicality.
**Interviewer:** That sounds like an exciting direction for Changan. Considering the rapid development of the Chinese automotive industry, how does Changan fit into this landscape?
**Representative:** Absolutely! Beyond Changan, the 21st century has seen our automotive industry flourish, growing in production and sales year after year. By 2010, China emerged as the world’s largest automotive producer. Recently, the rise of new energy vehicles (NEVs) has propelled us onto the global stage, with China leading the market.
In 2023, for the first time, our production and sales surpassed 30 million units, making us the world’s largest automotive exporter, with NEVs contributing over 60% of global production volume.
**Interviewer:** Inspiring! It sounds like Changan’s story is interwoven with the evolution of the entire Chinese automotive culture.
**Representative:** Exactly! We embody endurance, dedication, and a forward-looking approach. While there are many historical brands like FAW, Dongfeng, and BAIC, we see ourselves as a legacy brand—that thrives on innovation, ensuring we remain relevant and dynamic in this ever-changing industry.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing these incredible stories from Changan Automotive. They truly illustrate the resilience and innovative spirit behind the brand.
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