China-owned automaker Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC) recently launched its all-electric brand, Aion, in Hong Kong. The move is apparently part of the company’s expansion efforts amid the overcapacity issues in its home market, China.
Launch event highlights
According to the press release, GAC AION held the grand opening ceremony of its inaugural showroom in Hong Kong on January 28, 2024. Significant people attended the event, including government officials, GAC AION, and GAC International leaders.
The Chinese electric automaker took the chance to introduce a wide range of new energy vehicle (NEV) models, including the AION Y Plus, Hyper SSR, and Hyper HT.
The imminent arrival of GAC AION’s NEV models in the market will significantly aid Hong Kong’s ongoing push for decarbonization in its transportation sector.
“Hong Kong serves as a an integral part of GAC Group’s global layout. Using the Hong Kong market as a starting point, GAC AION will expedite the overseas layout of new energy vehicles, advance GAC Group’s internationalization process, and contribute to the realization of the “Trillion GAC” blueprint. Simultaneously, GAC AION is committed to driving the worldwide growth of the new energy industry.”
GAC Motor
Arriving models in the local market
GAC AION Hong Kong General Manager Zhang Zhenguo introduced the AION Y Plus with a First-Class Cabin and a 490 km NEDC-rated range. It is expected to hit the Hong Kong electric vehicle market in May 2024, with a sales target of 5,000 units annually.
The Hyper SSR advanced as the “First Chinese Supercar.” It features front and rear double wishbone suspension and three motors, generating a maximum output of 900kW.
Meanwhile, the Hyper HT is a five-seater high-end electric SUV that offers generous interior space and a trunk volume of up to 1802L.
GAC’s expansion efforts
Apart from the NEV models, GAC AION also showed off some of its technological breakthroughs, such as its X-Soul Architecture, Magazine Battery, Quark Electric Drive, the upgraded NDA system, and the AEP3.0 platform.
The Chinese electric automaker also aims to launch six local showrooms in Hong Kong this year to display and sell its competitive offerings and services.
It will also develop 1000V ultra-fast charging stations in the country to meet the demand for charging infrastructures, with 300 public charging stations by 2028.
GAC AION’s expansion will play a significant role in its parent company’s efforts to reach 500,000 unit sales per year in overseas markets by 2030.
