Play and purpose: Deepal G318 at Changan's Proving Ground

Automotive proving grounds are the hidden wonderlands of the car world. They are vast, purpose-built facilities where manufacturers push vehicles to their limits in safety.

From high-speed looped tracks to sprawling concrete pads for precision handling, these spaces are equal parts laboratory and playground. For enthusiasts, they represent the ultimate dream: a place where cars can truly show what they’re capable of.

And yet, such facilities also tend to be rather elusive to an everyday driver. But for good reason - in-development cars are put through their paces on proving grounds, and manufacturers definitely want to maintain privacy and secrecy prior to new models being announced to the world.

The Chonqing Xibu Automotive Proving Ground is a wide-spanning facility that allows for rigorous testing of cars

Changan's Chongqing Proving Ground

Changan Automobile is one of China's largest automotive manufacturers, and calls Chongqing home. Located in Chongqing's neighboring province of Dianjiang, Changan's proving ground (called the Chonqing Xibu Automotive Proving Ground) is one of China’s largest and most advanced. While exact design and specification may vary across brand and location, proving ground typically will consist of some combination of a large looped track for high-speed testing, a multi-purpose expanse of flat concrete for gymkhana-style tests, as well as other obstacles/courses like off-road trails, high speed slalom, and mixed-surface roads. 

Here at the Chongqing Proving Ground, the huge 2.5km² facility hosts dealer conferences, media events, and of course, rigorous testing. On top of 13 main roads and nearly 70 special roads, the facility also features banked curves, off-road trails, and slalom courses that make it a versatile stage for research and development, but also for spectacle.

The Avatr 12 demonstrating its drifting prowess 

Spotlight on the Deepal G318

Among the vehicles showcased, the Deepal G318 truly captured attention. Its neon yellow hue, bold design, and towering presence make it seem destined for the big screen. Named after China’s longest highway, the G318, which spans from Shanghai to Tibet, the vehicle embodies an all-terrain spirit, ready to traverse everything from bustling urban streets to the wildest landscapes.

The Deepal G318 is quite a sizeable car at 5,010mm long and 1,985mm tall, and its exterior commands attention with its high ground clearance and a rugged roof rack equipped with factory-installed floodlights, ready for any adventure. Thick plastic mudguards protect the body, while the distinctive triangular wheel design adds a unique touch to its bold appearance. Its long hood and tall stance give it a commanding presence on the road, complemented by a side-opening rear boot that houses a spare tyre and offers 818 litres of storage space for all your gear (expandable to 1,747 litres with the rear seats folded).

With its bright yellow paintwork and rugged design, the G318 looks like it could have leaped out straight from a movie screen

Inside, the G318 blends plush luxury with modern technology. The seats are upholstered in a combination of leather and alcantara-like materials, providing both comfort and style. The palm-wide pilot-style gear lever feels intuitive and substantial in hand, while the expansive digital instrument cluster and oversized infotainment display keep the driver connected and informed. Together, these elements create an interior that is both inviting and cutting-edge, perfect for long journeys or daily drives.

On a short test drive, the G318 impressed with sharp handling and minimal cabin rocking over bumps. Its monocoque build delivered precise feedback, while the interior’s comfort made it approachable for any driver. It’s a rare combination: Rugged capability paired with everyday usability. And with this dual-motor all-wheel drive model producing 323kW of power, acceleration is expectedly brisk. 

Burgeoning Ambition

Based on my time in Chongqing, the G318 is already quite a common sight, a sign of its popularity. It’s indicative of Deepal carving out a strong identity in China’s EV market. And, it’s more than just a car - it’s a statement of what the brand can achieve.

In essence, the Deepal G318 embodies the thrill of the proving ground: Bold design, advanced technology, and a spirit of adventure. This proving ground serves as a vital proving space where innovation meets rigorous testing, ensuring that vehicles like the G318 are not only impressive in design but also reliable and capable in real-world conditions. It is here that automotive dreams are challenged and refined, making the proving ground an essential cornerstone in the journey from concept to road-ready reality.