Chinese car manufacturers are making a strong entrance into European markets, and one of the most exciting new players is GAC (Guangzhou Automobile Group). At this year’s Paris Motor Show, GAC unveiled their vision for electric vehicles, introducing two models that are expected to reach the European market, potentially including Scandinavia.
AION V
The first model, the GAC AION V, is a compact electric SUV initially launched in 2020. The latest version is built on GAC’s advanced AEP platform, specifically designed for electric vehicles. With a length of 4,605 mm and a height of 1,854 mm, the AION V is positioned as a direct competitor to models like the VW ID.4. The interior is modern and well-equipped, featuring an 8.9-inch digital instrument panel and a large 14.6-inch touchscreen. Although it lacks a head-up display, the AION V offers plenty of storage space, with 427 liters of trunk capacity, expandable to 987 liters with the rear seats folded.
In Europe, the AION V is expected to come with two battery options: a 75.3 kWh and a larger 90 kWh version. The range is estimated to be between 650 and 750 km based on the Chinese CLTC standard, though final figures using the European WLTP standard will be determined later.
AION Y
The second model, the AION Y, is another electric SUV, slightly smaller than the AION V, measuring 4,535 mm in length and 1,650 mm in height. It is expected to feature a 63 kWh battery with a motor delivering 187 hp and 225 Nm of torque. There may also be an option for a larger 76 kWh battery.
In China, the AION Y achieves up to 490 km of range with the smaller battery. The cabin design mirrors that of the AION V, with similar dual screens, though the materials are a bit more modest, giving it a more budget-friendly feel.
GAC’s future in Europe if success
If GAC finds success in Europe, it will be interesting to see what other models they bring to the market. In addition to the AION V and Y, GAC offers the AION RT, a sleek sedan similar in size to the Tesla Model 3. The AION RT comes with 55 kWh and 68 kWh battery options, but for Europe, it’s likely that GAC will aim to offer models with longer ranges to compete effectively.
Hyptec SSR
Another model that caught attention at the Paris Motor Show was GAC’s electric supercar, the Hyptec SSR. With 1,224 hp, 1,230 Nm of torque, and an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 1.9 seconds, it’s one of the fastest cars on the market. However, GAC indicated that there are currently no plans to introduce this model in Europe.
GAC is certainly a brand to watch, and we hope to see their models on Danish roads soon.
