Chinese car manufacturer GAC has announced that it will launch its Aion V electric SUV, which is already available in China, in Europe next year. In the coming years, GAC plans to bring further core models to Europe, including an SUV and a hatchback in the B-segment.

The Aion V, which is well-known from China, is finally making its European debut. GAC presented the battery-electric SUV at the Paris Motor Show. Specifically, it is already the second generation of the Aion V, which at 4.65 metres in length is roughly comparable to a VW ID.4 and the other MEB SUVs. With an output of 150 to 165 kW, the GAC Aion V also plays in a similar league.

While there will probably be no major changes to the body of the European version, the key data for the drive and battery could well be different – a different version could easily be installed here. However, this has not been confirmed. Nevertheless, here is a brief look at the data for the Chinese model: GAC offers three battery packs with 62, 75 or 90 kWh, which enables ranges of 520, 650 or 750 kilometres. However, these are figures according to the Chinese CLTC; WLTP ranges are generally lower.

Inside, the Aion V has a two-spoke steering wheel, a digital instrument cluster, a 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system in landscape format and a bridge-like centre console. The minimalist interior layout of this electric car is not unusual and is reminiscent of almost all new electric cars that Chinese car manufacturers are currently launching on the market.

At GAC’s appearance at the motor show in Paris, it was stated that the company wants to set itself apart from its Chinese competitors with its “Japanese heritage.” The Guangzhou Automobile Group is a joint venture partner of Toyota and Honda and claims to have learnt a lot about manufacturing quality in the process.

While GAC was rather reserved at the trade fair – probably also inspired by the Japanese influence – the Chinese are more self-confident in the press release. As one of the few car manufacturers capable of independently researching, developing and manufacturing BEV batteries, GAC is ready to be a “significant player in Europe’s fast-growing EV market.” The company also wants to bring pioneering technologies to Europe, “including European-standard smart home charging stations, solid-state batteries, and carbon-ceramic brake discs.” Both the Aion V and the two unspecified models in the B segment are to be offered as “tailored solutions for European consumers.”

GAC has not yet revealed any further details about its European plans in its press release. As reported, GAC intends to enter the European market in smaller countries first – and will probably not serve Germany or France until 2026. As the company is not commenting further on this, no European prices are yet known. In China, the second-generation Aion V will be sold for 129,800 to 189,800 yuan, which corresponds to around 16,450 to 24,050 euros