Celebrating the Art of Italian Coachbuilding
Celebrating the Art of Italian Coachbuilding
The Changan BenBen designed by I.DE.A Institute.
The first-generation Changan BenBen was introduced in 2006 as a compact city hatchback, positioned to meet growing domestic demand in China for affordable and efficient urban transportation. Developed with the design expertise of Italy’s I.DE.A Institute, the vehicle marked one of Changan Automobile’s early efforts to integrate international design standards into its product line. Externally, the BenBen adopted a rounded, compact silhouette characterized by short overhangs and a high roofline, aimed at maximizing interior space within limited exterior dimensions. The styling, while modest, was contemporary for its time, incorporating large, teardrop-shaped headlamps and a simplified front fascia. These elements, combined with the vehicle’s upright stance and five-door layout, contributed to both aesthetic accessibility and functional utility. The body structure was designed with urban maneuverability in mind, measuring approximately 3.5 meters in length. Its small footprint allowed for easy navigation through congested city environments, while a relatively tall cabin profile supported better visibility and headroom for passengers. Inside, the first-generation Changan BenBen emphasized basic functionality. The dashboard was laid out with clarity and simplicity, featuring analog instrumentation and rotary climate controls. Interior materials were selected primarily for durability and cost-efficiency, reflecting the vehicle’s target market segment. Seating configurations allowed for four to five occupants, with folding rear seats enabling a modest increase in cargo volume when needed. Powertrain options included a 1.0-liter or 1.3-liter inline-four petrol engine, mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. Output ranged from approximately 51 to 63 kW, suitable for city driving and occasional suburban use. The suspension system consisted of MacPherson struts at the front and a torsion beam at the rear, offering a balance between ride comfort and production simplicity. The involvement of I.DE.A Institute in the design process brought a European influence to the BenBen’s appearance, contributing to its acceptability in both domestic and selected export markets. Though positioned in the entry-level segment, the vehicle represented a step forward for Changan in adopting globally informed design practices within a locally manufactured product.
I.DE.A Institute – short for Institute of Development in Automotive Engineering – was founded in Turin, Italy in 1978 by Italian entrepreneur Franco Mantegazza together with famed architect Renzo Piano (designer of the Pompidou Centre). Renzo Piano’s structural engineer partner Peter Rice served as Vice President.
