Yes, we’ve got another Chinese EV brand in the local market, although technically, it’s an offshoot of another manufacturer that already exists on our shores. Aion, which is short for ‘AI on the Road,’ is GAC Motor’s electric sub-brand, and while it may be your first time hearing about it, it’s actually the third largest EV brand in the world with sales reaching 480,000 units in 2023.
At its official brand launch this week, Aion introduced its initial two-car lineup for our market. Let’s take a quick look.
Aion Y Plus
The carmaker has wisely chosen a crossover as one of its early offerings. The Aion Y Plus is a five-seater with two variants:
Aion Y Plus 2025 variants and prices
- Aion Y Plus Elite – P1,498,000
- Aion Y Plus Premium – P1,698,000
Powering the Y Plus is a single electric motor that puts out 201hp and 225Nm of torque. Both trim levels have the same battery capacity, with claimed range of up to 490km. One key difference is the Premium supports V2L functionality, with a max output of 3.3kW. Fast-charging up to 80kW is supported.
What the higher-spec Premium variant has over the entry-level Elite are advanced driver-assist aids. The safety suite includes intelligent cruise assist, forward-collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, traffic-jam assist, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. It also wears bigger 18-inch alloys shod with 215/50 tires, versus the Elite’s 17-inch rims with 215/55 rubber.
There’s a wide range of available exterior colors: Lucky Gold, Youthful Green, Pure White, Quick Silver, Elegant Gray, Liberty Ash, and Glamour Black. The first three may also be specified with a black roof. Interior colors, meanwhile, are Fairyland, Wonderland Forest, Pink Coast, Blue Ocean, and Elegant Lavender.
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Aion ES
The second model is the Aion ES, which, like its namesake in the Lexus stable, is midsize in terms of dimensions, measuring 4,810mm long, 1,880mm wide, and 1,545mm tall. For comparison, the GAC Empow is 4,700mm long, 1,850mm wide, and 1,432mm tall.
Aion ES 2025 price
- Aion ES – P1,358,000
Propulsion duties are covered by a single electric motor that generates 134hp and 225Nm of torque. The 55.2kWh battery’s estimated range on a full charge is 442km based on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC).
Unlike the Y Plus, the ES doesn’t come with advanced driver aids, but it boasts standard cruise control, auto hold, hill-hold control, a reversing camera, and parking sensors, among others.
Aion Makati flagship dealership
Aion and its Philippine distributor Dangdang New Energy Auto Service also officially opened the doors to the brand’s flagship dealership earlier this week. Located at 2287 Chino Roces Avenue Extension, Aion Makati sits on a 1,420sqm property and boasts a six-vehicle showroom, an after-sales service area, and four electric vehicle charging stations, including two fast-chargers.
“Our goal is not merely to introduce vehicles to the Philippines, but to provide a smarter and more sustainable lifestyle,” said Anton Ibarle, general manager of Aion Philippines. “Aion’s cutting-edge technology and eco-conscious solutions are perfectly suited to the evolving preferences of Filipino consumers who prioritize luxury, intelligence, and sustainability.”
The dealership has already turned over brand-new units to 10 Aion customers. In addition, three future dealership locations have been announced: Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, and Davao.
“The Philippines, as the fourth largest automotive market in ASEAN, has a large population and immense potential,” said Ding Zhiwei, regional sales director of GAC Aion Southeast Asia. “From January to June this year, the passenger car market here achieved a 17.8% year-on-year growth despite challenging circumstances. Additionally, the Philippine government has launched the ‘National Electric Vehicle Development Roadmap’ to encourage and support new energy development, giving us great confidence and anticipation for the Philippine market.
“The Aion Y Plus, known for its spacious design, long range, and sleek look, reflects GAC Aion’s commitment to delivering high-end, innovative new energy vehicles. The brand aims to contribute to the local EV industry’s development and offer Filipino consumers top-tier, sustainable transportation solutions.”
