Chinese automaker GAC is expanding its presence in Bangladesh with the introduction of its Aion electric vehicle brand and the E9 plug-in hybrid multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), adding electrified models to its conventional vehicle line-up already available in the country.

The new line-up comprises the Aion V, Aion Y and E9, according to a press release. GAC is entering Bangladesh's developing electric vehicle market with models covering different price points and powertrain requirements.

GAC was founded in 1997 and developed its automotive manufacturing operations through partnerships with Honda in 1998 and Toyota in 2004. The company launched its own GAC Motor brand in 2010 and subsequently established Aion as a dedicated electric vehicle brand. GAC said its cumulative global production had exceeded 30 million vehicles.

Aion V introduced in Bangladesh

GAC has introduced the Aion V electric SUV in Bangladesh with a claimed driving range of 485 km under the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure cycle. The company said the testing method was designed to provide a more realistic indication of driving range than older laboratory standards, although actual range can vary depending on road, weather and driving conditions.

The Aion V uses GAC's Magazine Battery 2.0 technology. According to the company, the battery system completed nail-penetration, bullet-impact and bending tests without catching fire. The electric SUV is available in Premium and Luxury variants and has a five-year warranty. An eight-year warranty, subject to applicable terms and conditions, covers its motor and battery.

GAC said prices for the Aion V start at BDT 5.2 million (US$ 42,510).

GAC E9 adds plug-in hybrid option

The E9 is a plug-in hybrid model offered alongside the fully electric Aion models and is available in GL and GX variants.

Its second-row executive seats feature a "One-Button Spa" function that reclines the seats into a zero-gravity position while activating massage, heating and ventilation functions. The cabin also includes a 17.3-inch ceiling-mounted high-definition television, Yamaha audio, soundproof glass and dual electric sliding doors.

The E9 offers a claimed pure-electric range of 136 km and a combined range of 1,032 km. Its safety and assistance features include a 360-degree airbag system and automatic parking, according to the company. The E9 comes with a six-year vehicle warranty and an eight-year battery warranty, subject to applicable terms and conditions. The GL and GX variants are available from BDT 8.5 million, the company said.

GAC expands local sales and support network

GAC said Bangladesh's transition towards electric mobility remains at an early stage, with consumers having different budgets, transport requirements and levels of familiarity with electric vehicles. The company said purchasing an electric vehicle involves considerations such as battery technology, charging and everyday usability, making access to first-hand product experience important.

GAC's showroom at 215 Bir Uttam Mir Shawkat Sarak in Dhaka's Tejgaon Industrial Area allows prospective buyers to explore and compare the E9, Aion V, Aion Y, Emkoo and Emzoom. DHS Motors is the official distributor of GAC vehicles in Bangladesh. Established in 1994, the company has more than 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, including its association with Honda.

DHS Motors provides after-sales services through its service centre, along with genuine spare parts and warranty support for conventional and electric vehicles. GAC said its electric vehicles, electrified models, after-sales services and customer facilities form part of its strategy to expand its presence in Bangladesh's automotive market.