GAC is set to become the 16th Chinese brand currently on sale in Australia, launching with three models initially.
Chinese car brand GAC is weeks away from going on sale in Australia, adding the 16th marque from the world's largest car market to the local automotive landscape.
Set for a November launch, GAC – which stands for Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd – will arrive in Australia with three key models initially.
Leading the charge is the Aion V electric mid-size SUV, set to be one of GAC's more important models in Australia as it joins the most popular SUV segment locally.
Australian specifications are still under wraps, but right-hand-drive markets like Singapore and Thailand already receive a high-specification version of the Aion V, equipped with a 75kWh battery for a claimed WLTP driving range of 485km.
If Australia takes the same version, it would mean a 180kW/240Nm single motor powering the front wheels.
GAC will also offer a smaller SUV called the Emzoom, with a petrol engine. Overseas, it is sold as the GAC GS3 Emzoom, and under GAC’s Trumpchi sub-brand as the Trumpchi GS3 Yingsu.
It’s powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine producing 130kW, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and front-wheel drive.
International versions measure about 4.4 metres long, making the Emzoom roughly the same size as a Nissan Qashqai, with prices expected to start from less than $30,000.
Unlike the rather conservative Aion V, the Emzoom uses a more sharply-creased design language to give a sportier appearance.
GAC's third model will be the M8 PHEV, a seven-seat people mover with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Positioned as a flagship vehicle in the Chinese market, the M8 PHEV pairs a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for a combined 274kW/630Nm output overseas.
Despite the relatively potent outputs, the claimed 0-100km/h acceleration time is a more relaxed 8.8 seconds.
GAC claims the M8 will be suitable for families and professionals alike.
In a statement provided by GAC, the brand’s deputy general manager, Cheney Liang, said, “Launching GAC in Australia is an exceptional milestone for our brand.
“I have no doubt that Australian customers will welcome our range of high-quality, innovative models with keen interest, and become accustomed to the elevated ownership experience we are set to offer.”
GAC’s existing Chinese operations include current joint-venture agreements with Toyota and Honda, and an upcoming collaboration with Huawei, to create a new high-end prestige brand for the Chinese market.
Full details of pricing, specifications, and GAC’s dealer rollout are expected closer to the brand’s official launch in November.
Kez Casey migrated from behind spare parts counters to writing about cars over ten years ago. Raised by a family of automotive workers, Kez grew up in workshops and panel shops before making the switch to reviews and road tests for The Motor Report, Drive and CarAdvice.
