New Chinese EV brand announces price cut and free charger for first Australian model

Chinese automotive giant GAC has announced a significant price reduction and promotional offer for its first electric vehicle in the Australian market, the Aion V. The brand is offering two end-of-financial-year incentives on the top-spec Premium variant: a 0.99% finance rate over 36 months or a $2,000 cashback. Additionally, buyers will receive a complimentary 22 kW home charger, although installation costs are not included. These offers are valid for orders placed before 30 June 2026, with cashback deliveries required by 30 September 2026. The Aion V is available in two variants, starting at $42,590 for the Premium and $44,590 for the Luxury model, both excluding on-road costs. The electric SUV is powered by a 150 kW motor paired with a 75 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, capable of delivering up to 510 km of WLTP range. The vehicle supports fast charging at rates up to 180 kW, allowing it to charge from 30 to 80 percent in just 16 minutes. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h time of 7.9 seconds, aided by 240 Nm of torque, while its 1,880 kg weight places it among the lighter electric SUVs currently available. Inside, the Aion V features a 14.6-inch touchscreen equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, catering to modern connectivity needs. GAC, or Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., is one of China’s largest car manufacturers, producing over two million vehicles globally in 2024. The company has recently expanded its electric vehicle portfolio in Australia with the launch of the more affordable Aion UT hatchback, which has been well received for its value proposition. The brand currently operates a dealer network of 30 locations across Australia, with plans to expand to over 100 in the coming years. This expansion, combined with the current EOFY incentives and rising fuel prices, could encourage more Australian consumers to transition to electric vehicles. Industry observers will be watching closely to see how GAC’s competitive pricing and offers influence the local EV market in the months ahead.