The group’s strategic expansion in Europe and the transition to a new era of global dominance.
On July 16, 2026, the 30,000,000th production vehicle rolled off the Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC) production line, marking one of the most important milestones in the Group’s 29-year history.
The model was a right-hand drive GAC M8 PHEV, known in international markets as the GN8. The choice of an export model reflects GAC’s strategic shift towards international markets, electrification and the development of vehicles adapted to the needs of different countries.
Today, GAC operates in 110 countries and regions, has more than 746 sales and service points, seven production plants outside China and nine international spare parts warehouses.
GAC’s path has also been built on decades of partnerships with manufacturers such as Toyota and Honda, through which it has developed expertise in lean manufacturing, quality control and supply chain management. At the same time, it created its own brands and product families, including GAC, AION and HYPTEC.
AION is the fully electrified arm of the Group and is at the forefront of its international expansion.
In 2025, GAC exported more than 130,000 vehicles, registering an increase of over 47%. In the first half of 2026, exports exceeded 120,000 units, an increase of 132% compared to the corresponding period in 2025. In total, shipments to international markets have exceeded 540,000 units, confirming that markets outside of China are developing into a key pillar of the Group’s growth.
In Europe, GAC AION’s strategy is moving from simple exports to local production, the creation of distribution and service networks and the development of products with European specifications.
A central role is played by the collaboration with Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria, where the electric C-SUV AION V is produced, while the compact electric hatchback AION UT followed in March 2026. The two models have been designed with a European approach at GAC’s Milan Design Studio and are manufactured on European soil.
Local production brings the brand closer to its markets, facilitates the adaptation of models to the demands of European drivers and reflects a long-term industrial commitment to the region.
In the Greek market, AION is represented by Inchcape Hellas, the Group that has represented Toyota and Lexus for decades. Within the first seven months of its presence, the brand has developed points in Athens, Thessaloniki and Heraklion, Crete, with further expansion to follow.
The range includes the AION V and AION UT, two purely electric models with a different character and common technological and manufacturing base.
The AION V is an electric C-SUV with a power of 204 PS, with a combined range of up to 510 km according to WLTP and over 700 km in an urban cycle. Produced in Austria by Magna Steyr, it combines family spaces, advanced safety systems, digital technology and an emphasis on comfort. It comes with an eight-year or 160,000km vehicle warranty and an eight-year or 200,000km battery warranty.
The AION V Premium is offered, for a limited number of cars and for registrations until August 31, 2026, at a price of 29,900 euros, from 33,900 euros, as part of Inchcape Hellas’ promotion. With the maximum government subsidy of 3,000 euros through the “Move Electric 3” program, the final price can be set at 26,900 euros.
The AION UT is a compact electric hatchback, designed in Milan and built in Graz. It produces 204 PS, has a 60 kWh battery and offers a combined range of up to 430 km according to WLTP. Charging from 30% to 80% is completed in approximately 24 minutes under the intended conditions.
The AION UT available in two versions. Premium costs €25,400 and can be configured to €22,400 after the maximum subsidy, while Luxury is offered from €27,400 and can be configured to €24,400. The subsidy is granted in accordance with the terms of the program and is subject to the approval of the buyer’s application.
On the website aionauto.grinterested parties can be informed about the models, versions, equipment, financing and leasing possibilities, as well as schedule a test drive.
Source: Skai



