GAC earns BrandZ nod

GAC Philippines has been named the 2026 Breakthrough Brand – Automotive in Kantar’s 2026 BrandZ Spotlight on Philippine Brands report, placing the Chinese automaker among the companies recognized for their growing relevance in the local market.

GAC was one of only two automotive brands honored in this year’s Philippine BrandZ recognition, alongside Toyota. The awards covered companies across consumer sectors that included banking, health supplements, communications, retail and beer.

Kantar Philippines cited GAC’s consumer connection, differentiation, market relevance and growth potential as factors behind the recognition.

The award comes as electrified vehicles take a larger share of the Philippine market. Kantar Philippines said xEVs accounted for 15.3 percent of new vehicle sales reported by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. and the Truck Manufacturers Association during the first half of 2026.

A Kantar consumer survey conducted in April also found that 74 percent of respondents would consider buying an electric vehicle.

Kantar uses its Meaningful, Different and Salient framework to assess how brands meet consumer needs, distinguish themselves from competitors and remain visible to buyers. Its BrandZ research combines consumer studies with financial data to measure brand equity.

“Being named the 2026 Breakthrough Brand – Automotive reflects our rapid strides in the market and our commitment to empowering Filipinos with cutting-edge mobility technology through our new energy lineup,” GAC Philippines General Manager Calvin Cheng said.

The recognition follows changes in GAC’s Philippine operations earlier this year.

GAC Philippines became a wholly owned local subsidiary of GAC International and adopted the company’s “ONE GAC” strategy, which places GAC MOTOR, AION and HYPTEC under a unified organization.

The company said the structure centralizes sales, aftersales operations and dealer coordination as it develops its Philippine network.

GAC currently has 30 dealerships nationwide and operates a local parts warehouse. Customers also receive two years of roadside assistance, with warranty coverage varying according to vehicle type.

Its internal-combustion models carry a five-year or 150,000-kilometer warranty, whichever comes first.

Electric vehicles including the AION Y, Hyptec HT, AION UT, AION V and AION ES receive an eight-year or 160,000-kilometer basic warranty. The traction battery and electric drive are covered for eight years or 200,000 kilometers.

GAC’s hybrid and plug-in hybrid models receive a five-year or 150,000-kilometer basic warranty, while the power battery, drive motor and motor control unit are covered for eight years or 150,000 kilometers.

The company’s Philippine portfolio now spans conventional combustion vehicles, hybrids, plug-in hybrids and battery-electric models as it builds its position in the country’s growing electrified vehicle market.