GAC Aion AY2 gets ready to conquer Europe

The EV market is about to get yet another Chinese contender with the introduction of the Aion AY2, a hatchback from GAC's brand. Codenamed AY2, is getting ready to make its global debut, with Europe firmly in its sights.

Leaked images suggest a November unveiling at the Guangzhou Auto Show is on the cards. The AY2 is Aion's third model designed for the global stage, following the second-generation Aion V and the SSR supercar.

The AY2's design features headlights, shaped like eyes, adding a lot of personality to its front. Below the headlights, the DRLs are set in a pattern resembling the Chinese character "tian" (田), meaning "paddy field."

The AY2's charging port is conveniently located on the right wing, while semi-flush door handles offer a practical balance between aerodynamics and cost-effectiveness. The rear of the AY2 features a roofline that ends with a spoiler, while the taillights echo the "tian" character design, hinting at a possible link to the car's official name.

Detailed specifications haven't been revealed yet, but industry insiders suggest the AY2 will target the competitive RMB 100,000 ($14,050) price point in China. This means it'll be in direct competition with popular EVs like the BYD Dolphin, Wuling Bingo, and the Volkswagen ID.3.

Aion, although less known outside of China, is currently the third-largest EV producer globally, right after Tesla and BYD. The company is aggressively looking for export opportunities, and the AY2's European launch, scheduled for 2025, is a big part of Aion's plans of becoming a major name in the global EV market.

Via