July 15, 2025 (London) — Guangzhou Auto Corp.-GAC Group, China’s Fortune 500 automaker, has signed a JV with Jameel Motors to distribute its AION EVs in the UK, marking its first European passenger vehicle push. The AION V SUV and UT hatchback will debut in Q1 2026, priced competitively in the £30,000–£40,000 range (USD 51,000 / RMB 275,000–370,000).
KEY FACTS:
1. Strategic UK Beachhead
- Targets UK’s 21.8% BEV market share (SMMT May 2025), with registrations up 25.8% YoY.
- Follows Jameel’s Poland distribution win for GAC; expands Farizon commercial EV portfolio.
- Regulatory approvals pending for one of UK’s first Chinese OEM JVs.
2. Product Firepower
- AION V (C-SUV): 700km CLTC range, L3-ready autonomous driving, and ultra-fast 800V charging.
- AION UT (B-Hatch): Urban-focused with “Pandora” smart cockpit and rear-wheel steering.
- Both feature GAC’s “Skateboard 3.0” platform and 5-star Euro NCAP safety.
3. GAC’s Global Momentum
- Sold 100,000+ self-branded overseas vehicles in 2024 (+92.3% YoY).
- Operates in 84 countries, with R&D spend hitting 4.5% of revenue in 2024.
4. Jameel’s Multi-Continent Leverage
- Builds on 80-year distribution legacy across Middle East/Africa/Asia.
- Eyes UK EV subsidies (no VAT on sub-£50k BEVs until 2027).
Jasmmine Wong, Chief Executive Officer, the lady on the right – Jameel Motors stated: “The joint venture with GAC represents a shared vision, and an exciting opportunity to meet the UK’s growing demand for smarter, cleaner passenger vehicles. Led by customer preference and guided by our expertise, we’re committed to staying ahead of trends and delivering first-class solutions that are both innovative and sustainable.”
Wayne Wei, President – GAC International, added: “GAC’s entry into the UK marks a crucial step in its internationalization strategy. As we set foot in this dynamic market, GAC is committed to bringing industry-leading products and first-class services to UK consumers.”
The signing ceremony was successfully concluded
EDITOR’S NOTE
The UK represents a critical proving ground for Chinese automakers- Europe’s second-largest EV market after Germany, the sales new electric cars are predicted to reach more than 400,000 in 2025 (DriveElectric data) but will still fall short of government-set targets.
GAC’s move signals how seriously Chinese brands take the UK’s regulatory tailwinds (no VAT on sub-£50k EVs until 2027) and Tesla-dominated premium sector. Success here could redefine “Made in China” for Western consumers – if GAC can balance its cutting-edge tech (800V charging, L3 autonomy) with localized compliance and service networks.
