Changan's global design excellence recognised with five Car Design News People Awards nominations
CHANGAN EUROPE PRESS INFORMATION
- Nominations reflect the breadth of Changan's global design capabilities and the creative excellence behind the recently launched Deepal S05 und Deepal S07 models
Birmingham – The global design team behind Changan Automobile, one of China’s largest and most influential automotive manufacturers, has been shortlisted in five major categories at the Car Design News (CDN) People Awards 2025, underscoring the company’s creative influence and design expertise on the world stage.
Founded 160 years ago, Changan has evolved from one of China’s earliest engineering pioneers into a global design-led automotive group which continues to attract world-class creative talent globally. Today, it’s established network of international design centres across Italy, Germany, China, Japan and is home to more than 1,000 designers.
Under the leadership of Klaus Zyciora, Vice President of Global Design and former Head of Design at the Volkswagen Group – the team blends cultural heritage with the latest innovative design principles – positioning the brand as a true global competitor in the evolving world of electric mobility.
Changan’s multidisciplinary design teams have been recognised across the following categories:
- Best Clay Modelling Team – celebrating craftsmanship in physical form development
- Best Studio Engineering Team – recognising innovation in digital-to-physical design
- Best Lighting Design Team – for expressive signature lighting integration
- Best Interior Design Team – recognising human-centred cabin architecture and design
- AI Explorer Award – for pioneering use of AI-assisted design workflows
Changan is also proud to sponsor the Unsung Hero Award category. This award recognises those who lead by example without seeking the spotlight.

“Design sits at the heart of how we are redefining the future of electric mobility. These nominations collectively showcase the breadth and calibre of Changan’s global design capabilities, as well as the creative excellence behind recent projects such as the Deepal S07 and Deepal S05,” commented Klaus Zyciora about the nominations. “The strength of our integrated approach to design – merging traditional artistry with advanced technologies – creates vehicles that are both emotionally engaging and functionally intelligent.”
The Car Design News People Awards are among the most prestigious honours in the international automotive design calendar. Held annually, they celebrate both the individuals and teams behind the world’s most innovative vehicle designs, recognising creativity, collaboration and technical excellence across every discipline of the car design process.
Nic Thomas, Vice President Marketing Changan Europe and Managing Director Changan UK, said: “These nominations are a testament to Changan’s unwavering commitment to design excellence and innovation. As we continue to grow our presence in Europe, it’s inspiring to see our global teams recognised in this way. European drivers have always appreciated great design, and we’re proud of our design accomplishments that seamlessly combine style, technological advancement and craftsmanship.”
The winners will be announced at the ceremony on 4 December in London – an event that brings together the world’s leading automotive designers, OEM executives and industry innovators.