Chinese automaker GAC set to debut Down Under in October, unveiling a lineup of electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and conventional hybrids. Aiming for a top 10 sales position in Australia.

Chinese auto giant GAC is set to make its debut in the Australian market in October, with an initial line-up of three models. The company, which is ranked fifth in the Chinese auto market and had more than two million sales in 2024, aims to join the top 10 sellers in Australia, similar to BYD, GWM, and MG.

The initial launch line-up will include the Aion V medium crossover EV, the Trumpchi GS3 Emzoom small SUV, and the ICE-powered Trumpchi E9 plug-in hybrid people-mover. The Aion V, set to be the second generation model launched in Australia in 2024, will target a 510km rated range and will focus on achieving five-star ANCAP safety ratings.

GAC has partnerships with Honda and Toyota to build cars in China, and these partnerships have given the company access to the Japanese giants' hybrid technology. However, whether this technology comes with GAC models in Australia is yet to be confirmed.

One of the models is a Tesla Model Y competitor, with three of the additional models set to be electric vehicles (EVs). GAC plans to add an electric hatchback and a hybrid/ICE SUV to the line-up in 2026.

The company's expansion in Australia is part of a widespread international export expansion, as GAC is involved in a cut-throat sales battle at home and is looking for more volume overseas. Jason Pecotic, an Australian automotive industry veteran with China links, has been appointed Chief Operating Officer for GAC's operations in Australia, New Zealand, and Oceania.

In 2027, GAC plans to launch an electric SUV and a hybrid/ICE SUV, as well as a ute. The company aims to expand to at least eight models in Australia by the end of 2027.

The SSR hypercar, previously known as Hyper, will not be part of the Australian line-up plans. GAC has re-engineered Honda and Toyota vehicles into their own cars, which may give them an advantage in the Australian market.

It's worth noting that GAC is ranked 181st on the 2024 Fortune Global 500 and has more than 80,000 employees. The search results do not contain information about the director of GAC International Australia, responsible for operations in Australia, New Zealand, and Oceania.

The PHEV E9, not previously mentioned, is powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine and e-motor, producing a combined 274kW/630Nm output. This model is expected to be a strong contender in the Australian market.

With GAC's strong presence in the Chinese auto market and their strategic partnerships with Honda and Toyota, the company is poised to make a significant impact in the Australian market. The initial launch line-up offers a diverse range of vehicles, with a focus on electric and hybrid technology, which aligns with the growing trend towards sustainable transportation in Australia. The appointment of Jason Pecotic as COO further strengthens GAC's commitment to the Australian market, as he brings extensive industry knowledge and experience to the table. As GAC continues to expand its line-up and establish itself in the Australian market, it will be interesting to see how it competes with established brands and new entrants in the coming years.

Chinese automaker GAC set to debut Down Under in October, unveiling a lineup of electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and conventional hybrids. Aiming for a top 10 sales position in Australia.