GAC plans to launch at least 6 new models in PH this year

You may have already heard about GAC International Philippines, a subsidiary of China’s GAC Group, and taking over the local operations of the GAC brand from outgoing distributor Astara Philippines which is closing up shop.

Astara’s exit from our market was a bit worrisome for many customers of the GAC brand, but with the brand’s transition of its local presence from having an external distributor to a direct subsidiary, things are looking quite good as the company outlines its plans for the local market.

This move isn’t new for any automotive brand in our market. The same happened with rival brands Geely and MG, which are now under the direct management of their China-based parent companies. 

So what exactly is in the books for GAC International Philippines?

For starters, the company will be reinforcing its presence in our market through the “ONE GAC” strategy. This puts together all of GAC’s sub-brands–GAC Motor, Aion, and Hyptec–under one umbrella. Previously, GAC Motor vehicles were sold by Astara, while a separate distributor handled and sold Aion EVs. 

Through this strategy, the company says that they should be able to present a clearer and more consistent brand identity under GAC, along with more efficient sales and service networks, and a more reliable, consistent, and customer-centric ownership and aftersales experience. This also includes offering a more diverse product portfolio.

That diverse product portfolio includes the brand’s latest hybrid (HEV) and battery electric (BEV) models. While no details as to what these are were announced just yet, GAC International Philippines says there will be six to eight new models coming into the local market this year. These could include the Aion V crossover, Aion UT hatchback, and Hyptec HT crossover, all of which were shown off at last year’s Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS).

READ: PEVS 2025 | GAC has three new EVs up its sleeve

The company’s included press photo could also be something to come by, showing the current GAC Motor lineup, the aforementioned Aion and Hyptec EVs; with the Aion i60 and Y Plus; and the GAC GS4 Max, S7 and S9.

GAC International Philippines also promises to improve on its aftersales support which is currently leaving most owners worried. This will be done through operational and process optimization to enhance execution efficiency, dealer network support to ensure stable sales and aftersales operations, and parts supply capability enhancement through localized warehousing and logistics improvements.

This along with confirmation that all authorized GAC dealerships around the country remain fully operational without any disruptions to warranty coverage, aftersales services, and parts availability.

With all these in mind, do you think that the GAC brand has room to grow in our very competitive automotive market through its ONE GAC strategy, future new models, and promised aftersales continuity, especially now that it is under the management of its parent company instead of a separate distributor?

_{Photos: Julian Panlilio, Sam Surla, GAC}