Chinese automaker Changan has officially begun operating as an independent vehicle manufacturer under the direct control of Beijing, following a state-led restructuring that aims to accelerate its global reach and tech-driven evolution, China’s state broadcaster CCTV reported on Tuesday.

Previously a subsidiary of China South Industries Group Corp, a major state-owned defense and industrial conglomerate, Changan was formally spun off and restructured in a ceremony held in Chongqing. The newly launched company will now answer directly to the central government.

The move marks a significant shift in China’s state enterprise strategy, giving Changan greater autonomy while sharpening its focus on advanced automotive technology. With 117 subsidiaries under its umbrella, the restructured company plans to dive deep into cutting-edge fields including smart vehicles, robotics, embodied intelligence, and even flying cars.

State media emphasized that the revamped Changan aims to be more than just a carmaker. It is positioning itself as a full-fledged mobility and intelligence technology firm—one that is expected to play a key role in China’s push for tech self-reliance and global industrial leadership.

As part of its strategic pivot, Changan is accelerating its overseas expansion. The firm plans to penetrate fast-growing international markets such as Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Central and South America, and Europe.