Changfeng Motor, known for its robust history and ties to the military, began as a small repair facility (No.7319 Factory) before transitioning into a notable player in the automotive industry. Established initially in 1950, and rebranded as Changfeng Auto Manufacturing in 1996, the company was deeply intertwined with the People's Liberation Army, producing primarily for state use, especially military and police forces.
Over the years, Changfeng expanded its production, specializing in SUVs and light trucks, including licensed Mitsubishi Pajero models which were sold under the Lièbào (later Leopaard) brand in China. This move exemplified Changfeng’s shift towards a more commercial and civilian-focused market. By 2008, a significant portion of their sales was still to the Chinese state, showcasing their strong ongoing governmental ties.
However, the turn of the century saw significant shifts in ownership and strategic direction. In 2011, Changfeng was acquired by Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC), which led to its delisting from the Shanghai stock exchange in 2012. The acquisition aimed to realign Changfeng’s market strategies, focusing on the burgeoning SUV market under the revamped Leopaard brand, a symbol of the company’s aspirations to reinvent itself in a competitive industry.
Today, Changfeng, under the Leopaard brand, markets a variety of vehicles, predominantly SUVs and crossovers, such as the Leopaard CS9 and CS10, maintaining a presence in the Chinese automotive market. Their products reflect a blend of legacy military precision and modern automotive trends, aiming to carve a niche in both domestic and international markets. Despite the fluctuations in ownership and market strategy, Changfeng's enduring legacy in the automotive sector underscores its resilience and adaptability in the face of changing industry dynamics.
