Celebrating the Art of Italian Coachbuilding
Celebrating the Art of Italian Coachbuilding
The Changan CV9 designed by I.DE.A Institute.
The Changan CV9 is a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) developed by Changan Automobile, with exterior and interior design executed by the Italian I.DE.A Institute. Introduced to serve urban and family transportation needs, the CV9 is characterized by a practical layout, moderate dimensions, and cost-effective engineering. The vehicle features a front-engine, front-wheel-drive configuration and is typically equipped with a 1.6-liter inline-four gasoline engine, coupled to a 5-speed manual transmission. A 2.0-liter variant has been produced for markets requiring higher power output. The powertrain is optimized for low to medium-speed urban use, with emphasis on fuel efficiency and mechanical simplicity. Its body structure incorporates a conventional monocoque chassis, prioritizing ease of manufacturing and structural integrity. The exterior design follows a utilitarian approach with minimal ornamentation, facilitating aerodynamics and production efficiency. Sliding rear doors (available on some models) improve accessibility in confined urban environments. The CV9’s interior is configured to accommodate up to seven passengers across three rows. The seating arrangement is modular, allowing for the reconfiguration of rear seats to expand cargo capacity. Interior components are selected for durability and low production cost, with emphasis on straightforward operation and ease of maintenance. Standard safety equipment includes front airbags and an anti-lock braking system (ABS), in compliance with baseline regulatory requirements in target markets. Electronic stability control and advanced driver-assist systems are not available. The vehicle was not widely distributed in Western Europe and is primarily found in domestic Chinese and select export markets. Its limited market penetration outside Asia can be attributed to homologation constraints, brand recognition, and competition from established global manufacturers. The Changan CV9 represents a category of low-cost, high-utility MPVs developed during the early 21st century in China, aimed at filling a demand for basic family and commercial transport. It is an example of pragmatic automotive design, shaped by production scalability, international styling influence, and constrained by cost and regulatory compliance.
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.
