GAC Expands EV Lineup With Tech, Style, and Strategy
GAC Expands EV Lineup With Tech, Style, and Strategy
A Strong Statement at the EV Summit
At the 13th Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS), GAC didn’t just show up—it made a statement. The brand launched two new battery electric vehicles, the Aion V and the Hyptec HT, while also giving Filipinos their first look at the Aion UT, a model that has already made waves in Thailand. GAC Expands EV Lineup With Tech, Style, and Strategy
This wasn’t just about unveiling shiny new cars. It was about showing how GAC plans to cement its presence in Southeast Asia, particularly in the Philippines, through a mix of technology, localization, and ecosystem partnerships.
For me, this is where things get interesting. It’s one thing to launch EVs in markets with mature charging infrastructure. It’s another to do it in the Philippines, where EV adoption is still in its early stages. GAC seems to understand that success here requires more than just cars—it requires building trust, infrastructure, and value.
Aion V: Practical Power for Everyday Use
The Aion V is positioned as the reliable, family-friendly EV SUV. It’s equipped with GAC’s Magazine Battery 2.0, which is designed to be fireproof even under direct impact. That’s not just marketing fluff—it’s a safety feature that addresses one of the biggest concerns about EVs: battery safety.
On a full charge, the Aion V delivers a CLTC-rated range of 520 km. That’s enough to cover Manila to Baguio and back without plugging in. And when you do need to recharge, DC fast charging takes it from 30% to 80% in just 16 minutes. That’s faster than finishing a coffee break on the expressway.
With a 2,775 mm wheelbase and suspension tuned for Philippine roads, the Aion V promises both space and comfort. For Filipino families, this means a practical EV that doesn’t compromise on range, safety, or usability.
Hyptec HT: Luxury Meets Intelligent Technology
If the Aion V is about practicality, the Hyptec HT is about making a statement. This flagship electric SUV comes with dual-stage electric gullwing doors—yes, gullwing doors on an SUV. It’s the kind of feature that makes people stop and stare in the parking lot.
Inside, it’s all about premium comfort. Nappa leather interiors, reclining rear seats, and a 14.6-inch HD infotainment display powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8155 make it feel more like a luxury lounge than a car. Add in a submarine-grade steel body and advanced safety systems, and you’ve got a vehicle that’s as secure as it is stylish.
This is the kind of EV that appeals to buyers who want more than just efficiency. They want presence. They want technology that feels futuristic. And they want to know that their car is as safe as it is sophisticated.
Aion UT: Youthful Energy for the Next Generation
The Aion UT made its Philippine debut at the summit, targeting younger, tech-savvy drivers. In Thailand, it recorded 1,000 deliveries within 39 days, proving that there’s strong demand for a stylish, affordable EV with smart features.
As part of GAC Aion, the fastest EV brand to reach one million sales worldwide, the Aion UT carries the weight of global success. For Filipino drivers, it offers a glimpse of what’s coming: a compact, intelligent EV designed for urban living and digital lifestyles.
This is the model I see resonating with younger professionals in Metro Manila. It’s not oversized, it’s not intimidating, and it’s packed with features that make sense for daily commutes and city driving.
Expanding the Hybrid Lineup
Alongside its EVs, GAC also showcased the M8 PHEV and Emkoo HEV. The M8 PHEV is a flagship plug-in hybrid MPV that combines luxury with efficiency, while the Emkoo HEV is a sporty hybrid SUV designed for drivers who want both power and fuel economy.
This multi-path approach—offering both EVs and hybrids—shows that GAC understands the Philippine market. Not everyone is ready to go fully electric, and hybrids provide a bridge for those who want to reduce fuel consumption without fully committing to charging infrastructure.
Localization Through “ONE GAC 2.0”
GAC’s expansion in the Philippines is guided by its “ONE GAC 2.0” strategy, which emphasizes localization. Since entering the market in 2018, GAC has built a network of over 30 dealerships and service centers nationwide.
In 2024, the company achieved a 65% year-on-year sales increase, positioning it among the top Chinese car brands in the country. That growth reflects not just product quality, but also aftersales support—something Filipino buyers value highly.
As Calvin Cheng, General Manager of GAC International Philippines, put it: “We are not just launching new models. We are also building long-term partnerships, creating jobs, and investing in the Philippine EV ecosystem.”
Exclusive Launch Privilege Package
To encourage adoption, GAC introduced an Exclusive Launch Privilege Package for buyers of the Aion V and Hyptec HT. For just ₱999, customers receive over ₱99,999 worth of benefits, including:
- A 7kW wall-mounted home charger
- A portable charger
- Vehicle tint, car cover, and floor mats
- Charging credits
- Three-year LTO registration
- Three-year TPL insurance
- One-year preventive maintenance
- A ₱10,000 cash discount
This package is smart. It lowers the barrier to entry for first-time EV buyers by bundling essentials like chargers and insurance. For readers, this means less hassle and more value when transitioning to electric mobility.
My Take: Why This Matters
I’ve seen plenty of EV launches, but what makes GAC’s approach stand out is the balance between technology, safety, and accessibility. The Aion V offers practical range and fast charging. The Hyptec HT delivers luxury and futuristic design. The Aion UT brings youthful energy and affordability. And the hybrids provide a middle ground for those not ready to go all-in on EVs.
For Filipino consumers, the benefit is clear: more choices. Whether you’re a family looking for a reliable SUV, a professional wanting a luxury EV, or a young driver seeking something stylish and tech-savvy, GAC has something on the table.
What excites me most is the Magazine Battery 2.0 technology. Safety has always been a sticking point for EV adoption, and a fireproof battery is a big step toward building consumer confidence. Add in the fast-charging capability and the localization strategy, and you’ve got a brand that isn’t just testing the waters—it’s diving in headfirst.
And yes, gullwing doors on an SUV might feel like overkill, but let’s be honest: who doesn’t want to pull up to a mall and have doors that open like a sci-fi movie prop? Sometimes, practicality needs a little flair.
Looking Ahead
GAC’s participation at PEVS 2025 reinforces its Three Pillars of Leadership:
- Quality Leadership – world-class manufacturing and safety.
- Technology Leadership – global R&D driving intelligent systems.
- Ecosystem Leadership – partnerships that support sustainable development.
The road ahead is clear. GAC isn’t just selling cars—it’s building an ecosystem. And for the Philippines, that means more options, better infrastructure, and a faster path toward sustainable mobility.
