Shanghai (ZXZC)- On October 14, the Paris Motor Show 2024, one of the world's top five auto exhibitions, officially raised its curtain. GAC Group returned to the event after a six-year hiatus since its debut in 2018, using the platform to announce its ambitious plans for the European market.

Accelerating Integration into the European Market

Europe, a leader in green mobility, is the second-largest new energy vehicle (NEV) market globally, following China, and has set a target to ban the sale of internal combustion engine vehicles by 2035. As Europe's carbon-neutral goals progress, the demand for NEVs continues to surge, making this an ideal time for GAC Group to expand internationally.

Photo credit: GAC Group

At the Paris Motor Show, GAC Group launched its "European Market Plan," which outlines its strategy for market expansion, promoting green mobility, establishing service networks, and fostering cultural integration. The plan also includes exploring the potential for setting up a technology center in Europe to build a localized, sustainable ecosystem. The group is committed to becoming a trusted partner in the European automotive industry and a reliable brand for European consumers.

Since 2022, GAC Group has made key moves to support its European ambitions, including establishing the Milan Design Studio in Italy and a European headquarters in the Netherlands. This year, the company has accelerated its overseas expansion, aiming to put products into several European markets by the end of 2024, with plans to cover the entire European market by 2028. Additionally, the group is working to establish a localized service network and will complete a European transit warehouse by 2025 to improve parts supply efficiency. By 2028, GAC Group intends to have a service system in place that spans most European countries.

AION V makes debuts in European Market

At the show, GAC Group introduced its first global strategic vehicle, the second-generation AION V, to the European market. Designed and developed by GAC's global R&D team to meet the highest quality standards, the model addresses consumer needs identified through extensive research, including in Europe. It complies with European safety and quality standards, offering advanced smart driving features, cutting-edge electric technology, and a robust yet elegant design to provide European users with a top-tier intelligent mobility experience.

Photo credit: GAC Group

Wei Haigang, General Manager of GAC International, commented, "The second-generation AION V will be officially available to European consumers next year. We hope this vehicle will become the ideal partner for green mobility in Europe, creating a safer, smarter, and more reliable driving experience. Also, we will actively seek deeper collaborations with European partners to promote the mutual development of the automotive industry."

Mr. Wei also announced the appointment of Thomas Schemera, a veteran with over 30 years of experience in the European automotive industry, as Senior Vice President (SVP) and Global Chief Operating Officer (COO) of GAC International. Schemera's expertise is expected to help GAC establish a strong connection with European consumers and drive the company's global expansion.

Showcasing star models and cutting-edge technologies

Aligned with the theme of the Paris Motor Show, "Let's Celebrate!", GAC Group presented its lineup under the theme "When Craftsmanship Meets Technology." The booth, designed with the brand's signature flowing lines and a red-and-blue color scheme, symbolized the fusion of Chinese and European cultures, reflecting GAC Group's determination to integrate into the European market.

Photo credit: GAC AION

In addition to the newly launched all-electric second-generation AION V, GAC Group also displayed several heavyweight models, including the AION Y Plus, HYPTEC SSR, and HYPTEC HT in the full-electric vehicle segment, as well as the Trumpchi E9 and ES9 plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.

The technology section of GAC's booth featured cutting-edge innovations in electrification and smart driving, including the Euro-standard smart home charging pile, the A480 ultra-fast charging pile, Quark battery, solid-state battery packs, and long-fiber carbon-ceramic brake discs.