The global electric vehicle fever of the past few years has paved the way for China’s electric vehicle industry to achieve leapfrog growth and emerge as one of the powerhouses in this sector. This is attributed to the continuous enhancement of production capabilities by Chinese new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturers.
Recently, GAC Aion’s Changsha plant in central China’s Hunan province commenced production, with the first model rolling off the assembly line being the second-generation Aion V.
The Changsha plant stands out for its ability to produce a car in just 53 seconds, offering over 100,000 customization options. The robots in the factory can handle payloads of up to 1.2 tons. The annual production capacity stands at 200,000 vehicles, with potential for further expansion in the future.
The factory also integrates artificial intelligence (AI) and realizes fully automated production from raw materials to finished products. This helps reduce troubleshooting procedures by 25% and saves 30% of production space. Additionally, the smart logistic system can increase delivery accuracy by 40% and shorten delivery time by 25%. The plant also sources 50% of its energy from photovoltaics.
GAC Aion’s Changsha plant boasts an impressive production capacity.
The Aion V, the first model to roll off the assembly line at the Changsha plant.
Aion’s smart factory integrates AI and automated technologies.
Aion’s Changsha plant is expected to boost central China’s automotive industry.
The Changsha plant is Aion’s third factory, with the other two having a combined annual capacity of 400,000 vehicles, bringing the manufacturer’s total annual production capacity to 600,000 vehicles in China. The new plant began construction in October 2023, as a renovation project of the former GAC Mitsubishi fuel car production line taken over by Aion. This project is expected to transform central China into a major automotive manufacturing hub.
GAC Mitsubishi was established in May 2012 by the Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd. (GAC Group), Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, and Mitsubishi Corporation. Mitsubishi withdrew from China last year, and the joint venture’s employees were transferred to GAC Aion. In October last year, GAC Group announced the completion of the reorganization of GAC Mitsubishi and the handover of the Changsha plant to Aion.
Similar to its Chinese counterparts like BYD, Chery, Lynk&Co, Beijing, and MG, GAC Motor has swiftly entered the Vietnamese market in the past eight years with two large-sized models, the GAC M8 and GAC GS8, offered at mid-range to premium prices. The vehicles are sold through the Tan Chong Group distributor.
Previously, another GAC-owned brand, Aion, was launched in Vietnam through Harmony Vietnam, a subsidiary of Harmony Group (China).
As part of its development roadmap, GAC aims to open seven dealerships this year, targeting 10 dealerships in 2025, 20 in 2026, and 30 by 2027. The company also offers a 7-year warranty along with free roadside assistance and maintenance labor during this period.
GAC AION – Top 3 Global Electric Vehicle Brand Invites Dealers
GAC Energy Technology Corporation is gearing up to launch its electric vehicle brand AION in Vietnam, with a focus on developing dealerships throughout the country.
GAC AION – World’s Top 3 EV Brand Seeks Dealers
GAC Energy Technology Group is gearing up to launch its electric vehicle brand, AION, in Vietnam, with a focus on developing dealerships across the country…
