UT Goes Global

MANILA, Philippines | The GAC AION UT is building momentum in the Philippines after posting stronger global sales and gaining early traction among local electric vehicle buyers.

GAC International Philippines Inc. (GAC Philippines) said the AION UT recorded 3,331 units in global sales in May 2026, up 60 percent month on month. The company described the model as the fastest-growing Chinese-brand electric hatchback in its segment.

The AION UT was launched in the Philippines in May 2026 as part of GAC’s new energy vehicle lineup. The compact electric hatchback has also expanded across Thailand, Australia, Latin America and Europe since its global debut in 2025.

Its global recognition includes the Most Valuable EV Award at the Bangkok International Motor Show, Best Compact Electric Vehicle Award in Mexico and Best Subcompact Hatchback 5 Dr. EV at Thailand’s Car of the Year 2026.

Designed by GAC’s Milan Design Center, the AION UT carries the brand’s “Digital Magic Cube” design language and a fastback body style. It has a 2,750 mm wheelbase, giving the hatchback a larger cabin footprint than its compact size suggests.

The model also uses GAC’s Magazine Battery 2.0 technology, which the company said has maintained a zero-spontaneous-combustion safety record.

“We are thrilled to bring another global hit from GAC’s line of innovations to the Philippines through the AION UT,” said Steven Wang, Senior Vice President of GAC International. “This milestone allows us to further serve and diversify our brand offerings in the local mobility scene. We are confident that the AION UT will bolster dynamic, safe, and sustainable driving for Filipinos this 2026”.

Early Filipino owners cited efficiency, cabin space and value as factors behind their decision to shift to the AION UT.

Paul Lacson, a Silay City government employee and GAC owner, said the brand’s quality helped him choose the electric hatchback after owning a GAC Emzoom.

“I also have a two-year old GAC Emzoom, and the quality of the brand made me confident in choosing the AION UT. Since the fuel crisis, I’ve been using the AION UT for everyday commutes. The drive comfort is very good, and the power for its size is very strong, especially on the highway. I took it on an out-of-town trip and for a 100-kilometer stretch, I only used 20% of the battery. It’s been a game-changer for my family”.

Lacson said he compared the model with other electric and hybrid vehicles before choosing the AION UT for its features, efficiency and operating cost.

Jeff Filio, a quality analyst and first-time EV owner, said the AION UT stood out after he researched competing options.

“I was looking at other brands, but after I saw the AION UT in an ad, I looked into it further and saw the higher range and better tech. It was actually the first release of the Aion UT at GAC Kawit,” said Filio. “We got the two-tone unit, which is exactly what my wife and I like. Picking up the unit was a special family experience. It was my grandma’s birthday, and we all had a lot of fun. My gut feeling, based on research and reviews, was right; I really like it, and the GAC app is also very handy”.

The AION UT Elite is priced at P1.068 million. Its introductory price of P998,000, which includes a P50,000 discount, has been extended until 31 July 2026. GAC Philippines is also offering an additional P20,000 promo discount for the first 400 units sold.

Color options include Champs-Elysees Beige, Emerald Green, Rococo White, Seine Silver and a two-tone Rococo White with Emerald Green combination.

GAC Philippines said the AION UT is now available for reservation at its dealerships nationwide. The company currently operates a 30-dealer network, supported by a local parts warehouse and aftersales operations.

EV models carry an eight-year or 160,000 km warranty, while the core three-electric system is covered for eight years or 200,000 km. New owners also get two years of free roadside assistance.