The Deepal S07 is a new entry in China’s increasingly competitive electric vehicle (EV) SUV market. This midsize SUV, designed in Turin, Italy, and assembled in Nanjing, China, stands out with its aggressive stance, sharp lines, and coupe-like roofline, drawing immediate comparisons to luxury vehicles like the Lamborghini Urus. However, the Deepal S07 is positioned to compete with more affordable EV brands such as Tesla, Volkswagen, and BYD. Deepal is a subsidiary of Changan Automobile, a state-owned company founded in 1959. Changan, one of China's oldest automakers, launched its first Deepal model in 2022, marking a significant pivot into the EV market. The S07’s price range in China is between 169,900 and 197,900 Chinese yuan ($23,300 to $27,200), making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. In early 2023, Deepal began expanding internationally, entering markets such as Thailand, Australia, Mexico, Nepal, and Pakistan. By March, the brand reached Singapore, where the S07 retails for 220,000 Singapore dollars ($170,000) due to the city-state's high taxes and registration costs. Despite the steep price in Singapore, the S07 remains competitive within its segment, with the Lamborghini Urus priced at approximately $1.5 million and the BYD Sealion 7 ranging from $212,888 to $237,888. During a two-day test drive in Singapore, the S07 left a strong impression. Equipped with 19-inch wheels, a large glass roof with a sunshade, and sleek, pop-out door handles, the SUV exudes a premium feel. The interior design, with its extensive use of leather and soft materials, further reinforces this premium image. The back seats are spacious and comfortable, capable of seating three adults with ease, and the car offers ample storage space in both the front and rear trunks. Technologically, the S07 is on par with modern EVs. Most functions are controlled via a 15.6-inch touchscreen, which provides a user-friendly interface. The car is also equipped with advanced safety features, including multiple cameras and sensors integrated seamlessly into the body. The driving experience was smooth, with precise steering and responsive acceleration, though the car could benefit from higher-performance tires for better grip and handling. The improvement in quality and design seen in the S07 is a testament to the rapid progress of Chinese manufacturers in the EV sector. Fifteen years ago, Chinese cars often felt like prototypes, raising questions about their durability. Today, the Deepal S07 demonstrates a level of refinement and reliability that is comparable to established players in the international market. Changan Automobile has ambitious goals for the Deepal brand. At the end of last year, the company celebrated delivering its 400,000th car. President Deng Chenghao announced plans to increase deliveries to 500,000 units by the end of 2023, with 400,000 targeted for the Chinese market and 100,000 for global markets. Managing Director of Changan Southeast Asia, Shen Xing Hua, emphasized the strategic importance of Singapore in the company’s globalization efforts. They aim to achieve over 1.2 million annual sales in overseas markets by 2030 and invest over $10 billion in international markets. Industry insiders view the Deepal S07 as a promising entrant in the EV market, particularly noting its value-for-money proposition and premium design. The car’s success in Singapore could serve as a launching pad for further international expansion, given the high standards and discerning consumer base in this market. Changan’s long history and recent focus on innovation suggest that Deepal is poised to make significant inroads in both domestic and global markets. The S07’s blend of affordability, design, and advanced features positions it well for competition in the growing EV SUV segment.