Chinese automaker Changan Automobile has entered a strategic partnership with Yango Group, a tech company of Russian origin now based in the UAE, to advance innovative mobility solutions across Africa and the Middle East.
The agreement was formalized in Dubai on November 10, 2025, and positions Côte d’Ivoire as the launch market, leveraging Yango’s established urban transport presence, Ecofin Agency reported.
Under the deal, Yango Motors, the automotive division of Yango, will distribute Changan vehicles throughout West Africa, starting with Côte d’Ivoire.
Abidjan, already a hub for digital mobility, offers fertile ground for this venture. Yango, which launched locally in 2018, currently leads the market ahead of competitors like Uber and Heetch, operating alongside traditional taxis in a rapidly evolving ecosystem.
Until now, most ride-hailing fleets have relied on Suzuki Swifts imported from India for their affordability and low fuel consumption. Although some operators have trialed Chinese electric vehicles, adoption has been limited due to gaps in charging infrastructure.
Changan’s entry is expected to modernize urban fleets and foster integrated partnerships between manufacturers, platforms, and drivers.
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This collaboration reflects a broader trend in Africa, where ride-hailing companies are seeking greater control over vehicle sourcing and financing.
In Nigeria, for instance, Uber partnered with fintech Moove to lease vehicles to drivers, while Gozem in Togo and Benin secured IFC funding to renew its fleet.
Changan and Yango’s approach differs by forming an industrial partnership in which the mobility platform acts as both distributor and ecosystem developer.
Côte d’Ivoire will serve as a test market for Changan’s West African expansion.
Leveraging Yango’s footprint in major regional cities, Changan can refine its offerings before scaling to countries such as Ghana — $1.12 per litre — 61st globally, Nigeria — $1.27 per litre — 60th globally, or Cameroon — $1.45 per litre — 47th globally.
The partnership aims to build an integrated mobility ecosystem, combining Changan’s automotive technology, including connectivity, hybrid, and electric systems, with Yango’s digital data and user base.
Together, Changan and Yango seek to enhance vehicle access for African drivers, improve route efficiency, and reduce urban transport emissions.
If successful, their model could redefine collaboration between automakers and mobility platforms in Africa, positioning Côte d’Ivoire at the forefront of sustainable, connected urban transport in Francophone Sub-Saharan Africa.
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Image Credit: African Media Agency
