Chinese automaker GAC has consolidated its local operations under a single, factory-owned structure in the Philippines as it expands its electric vehicle (EV) line-up in the country.

In late January, GAC International Philippines confirmed that it had assumed unified control of all GAC-related brands operating in the country under the global ONE GAC framework. The change places the company's internal combustion models, the Aion electric vehicle range, and the Hyptec sub-brand under one Philippine organisation responsible for sales, dealer operations, and aftersales support.

The consolidation follows the introduction of electric and hybrid vehicles that had previously been managed under separate arrangements. As part of the restructuring, dealer standards, pricing policies, and warranty coverage are being aligned across the brands.

On February 9th, the company formally opened its offices, unifying the various local operations.

Current EV line-up in the Philippines

The company has outlined the first phase of its electric vehicle presence in the country. At industry events in late 2025, including the Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit, three battery-electric models were presented for the local market.

These include the Aion V, a compact electric SUV positioned for mainstream buyers; the smaller Aion UT, aimed at entry-level EV customers; and the Hyptec HT, a larger electric SUV positioned at a higher price point. The three models represent the brand's initial EV offering in the Philippines, covering the mass-market, compact, and higher-end segments.

How the brand evolved

The current structure follows several changes in local distribution since the brand entered the Philippines.

GAC vehicles were first introduced locally in 2018 through Legado Motors, with internal combustion models such as the GA4 sedan and the GS4 and GS8 SUVs, alongside the establishment of the first dealerships, mainly in Metro Manila. Marketing efforts included participation in motor racing activities.

In late 2022, the distributorship was transferred to another distributor that was part of an international automotive group. During this period, the line-up was refreshed and the dealer network was expanded, coinciding with increased local interest in electrification driven by fuel prices and early EV incentives.

As electric and higher-end models were introduced, they entered the country through different channels, resulting in parallel operations with varying dealer requirements and aftersales systems.

By late 2025, the distributor began winding down its automotive distribution activities in the Philippines. The parent group subsequently reassigned full distribution responsibility to GAC International Philippines, expanding the subsidiary's role beyond its original EV-focused mandate. The transition was completed in early 2026.

With the ONE GAC structure in place, all vehicles sold under the brand in the Philippines are handled through a single, factory-controlled organisation. Existing warranties and parts support are expected to continue, while dealers are being re-accredited under unified standards, including requirements related to electric vehicle servicing.

The consolidation defines the structure under which the current EV line-up and the planned 2026 model launches will be rolled out locally under direct manufacturer oversight.

Eight new models planned for 2026

Beyond these initial introductions, the company has indicated that up to eight new models are scheduled for launch in the Philippines in 2026. While specific nameplates have not all been disclosed, the pipeline is expected to include a mix of additional battery-electric vehicles, hybrid models, and refreshed versions of existing offerings.

The expanded rollout follows the shift to direct factory oversight, allowing product launches, pricing, and aftersales preparation to be managed under a single structure. For electric vehicles, this includes dealer readiness for high-voltage servicing, parts supply, and diagnostics.

Among the models currently sold in China, the Aion Y, or Aion Y Plus, is viewed as a potential candidate for Philippine homologation. It is a compact electric crossover with dimensions and performance characteristics suited to local roads and infrastructure. The model has already been exported to other Southeast Asian markets, indicating compliance with regional lighting, safety, and charging standards. Its battery size and power output may limit additional strain on the charging infrastructure.

The Aion RT, a midsize electric sedan, is also considered feasible. Sedans continue to serve a consistent buyer base in the Philippines, particularly for fleet and corporate use. Regulatory approval is not expected to be complex, with pricing and positioning likely to be the primary considerations.

The Hyptec GT, a higher-positioned electric sedan, is technically viable but would likely cater to a smaller segment due to its performance focus and expected pricing. Vehicles in this category are typically introduced after dealer EV servicing capabilities and brand familiarity are established.

Larger SUVs, such as the Hyptec HL, present additional practical considerations. While homologation is achievable, their size and weight place greater demands on the charging infrastructure and may limit suitability for dense urban areas. Such models may follow once fast-charging partnerships and aftersales readiness for larger battery packs are established.

Range-extended electric vehicle variants, such as the Hyptec A800 in extended-range form, would require additional certification and emissions testing, adding complexity to introduction plans. Historically, these powertrains have been prioritised only where there is a regulatory or commercial rationale.

Overall, the expected expansion path for 2026 is likely to focus on compact and midsize EVs that have already been exported to other ASEAN markets, with higher-end and larger vehicles introduced in line with infrastructure and service capability developments.