GAC Motor has expanded its strategy in the Philippines with the introduction of its new brand, Aion, and a range of electric vehicles (EVs).

Under the theme "GAC Global Ecosystem - Leading a New Era of Green Mobility in the Philippines," the initiative focuses on strengthening the company's presence in the local EV market. Unlike the main GAC Motor brand, which is distributed by Astara Philippines, Aion is managed directly by GAC International Philippines.

The brand was previously distributed by Dangdang New Energy Auto Service Philippines. GAC International Philippines is led by General Manager Calvin Cheng, Chief Brand Officer Reginald Go See, and Head of Sales and Marketing Lincoln Lan.

Aion's initial line-up includes three models.

The Aion V, a compact EV crossover, competes with models such as the BYD Atto 3 and Geely EX5.

It has a box-shaped silhouette with claw-shaped daytime running lights and taillights, along with roof rails. The interior has a two-spoke steering wheel, a centre console equipped with a wireless charger and two cupholders, and a central touchscreen controlling most vehicle functions.

The Aion V uses GAC's Magazine Battery 2.0, which the company claims is resistant to fire even under direct impact.

It has a CLTC range of 520 kilometres and can charge from 30% to 80% in 16 minutes using DC fast charging. The model is priced from PHP 1,498,000 (US$ 25,480).

The Aion Hyper HT is a fastback crossover with second-row gull-wing doors. Its exterior design takes inspiration from earlier generations of the Porsche Cayenne, with LED lighting at the front and rear.

On the inside, it includes light-toned upholstery and Nappa leather seats, while the front passenger seat offers cooling, heating, and massage functions. The instrument display is positioned within the dashboard, and the centre console is arranged for accessibility.

The Hyper HT also features the Magazine Battery 2.0, offering a CLTC range of 670 kilometres. Built with high-strength hot-formed steel, it is priced from PHP 2,260,000 and competes with models such as the Tesla Model Y.

Both vehicles come with a vehicle warranty of 160,000 kilometres or eight years, and a separate warranty of 200,000 kilometres or eight years for the battery, electric motor, and control system. Buyers are also offered an Exclusive Launch Privilege Package valued at PHP 99,999, available for PHP 999.

This package includes a 7-kW wall charger, portable charger, vehicle tint, car cover, floor mats, charging credits, three-year LTO registration, three-year TPL insurance, one-year PMS, and a PHP 10,000 cash discount.

Aion also displayed the smaller Aion UT, which has not yet been officially launched.

It is expected to compete with the GWM Ora and Dongfeng Nammi, with a 500-kilometre range, 30% to 80% DC fast charging in 24 minutes, and a suite of advanced driver assistance systems. Pricing and launch details have not yet been announced.