We already know that Changan has terminated its distributorship with Inchcape Philippines in the country. As a result, the automaker will operate as a direct subsidiary under the direction of Changan Automobile. Since Changan will operate soon in the country via a national sales team, we can expect the brand to revitalize its lineup, as well as bring all-new and refreshed models.

In fact, we recently checked the Department of Energy’s (DOE) list of recognized electrified vehicles and noticed two new additions from Changan. After being previewed at this year’s Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), it looks like Changan is set to bring the updated CS55 as a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV).

Based on the DOE’s listing, the CS55 HEV will get a 1.5L turbocharged engine that’s assisted by an electric motor and a small 1.7 kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery. The engine makes 110 kW (150 PS) with 220 Nm of torque, while the electric motor generates 166 kW (226 PS) and 290 Nm of torque. It also has a 51-liter fuel tank, and power is sent to the front wheels via a dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT).

Meanwhile, the CS55 PHEV will come in two variants: iD and SE. Both will have a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine that makes 69 kW (94 PS) with 125 Nm of torque, an 18.42 kWh LFP battery, and a single electric motor that produces 156 kW (212 PS) and 251 Nm of torque. Like the HEV, the CS55 PHEV comes with a 51-liter fuel tank and a DHT that drives the front wheels. 

Thanks to its plug-in hybrid setup, the CS55 PHEV is rated to run on EV power for more than 120 km and has a claimed total system range of over 1,032 km, both based on the NEDC standard. Moreover, the CS55 PHEV supports a vehicle-to-load (V2L) system, as well as AC & DC charging. Size-wise, the CS55 HEV & PHEV measure 4550mm long, 1868mm wide, and 1675mm tall on a 2656mm wheelbase.

Since the Changan CS55 HEV and PHEV models have already received DOE recognition, perhaps they will serve as the brand’s latest models when they officially relaunch as a direct subsidiary. We’ll be keeping our fingers crossed that we get to see more Changan models appear on the DOE’s website.