This month, new information from the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has revealed details about the GAC Aion all-electric sedan named Aion RT. The Ion brand had previously announced a plan to launch several new models, including the AY3 sedan which was set to debut in August. Additionally, another model named AY2 is expected to be displayed at the Guangzhou Auto Show. It remains unclear whether the Ion RT is indeed the AY3.
In terms of exterior design, the Ion RT features a rounded shape that fits the standard of a new Chinese electric vehicle, with a closed front face, slim headlights, and hidden door handles. There are not many surprises in the design, as the charging port is located on the right front fender. At the rear, the light source in the taillights has a slanted design, with the Ion logo displayed in the middle of the rear of the car.
In addition to the “RT” logo on the rear, Jack has revealed two other names at the back: “T” and “VT”. However, the official name still needs to be announced by GAC. The dimensions of the vehicle are 4865 mm in length, 1875 mm in width, and 1520 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2775 mm, making it larger than the GAC Aion S. The vehicle's weight is reported to range between 1670 and 1780 kg.
The vehicle comes with 17 and 18-inch tires with different rim designs. It is also equipped with 6 front radars and 6 rear lidar units, but lacks a rear radar. There is a front roof radar without front or rear cameras, and the vehicle features privacy glass and door handles in various colors.
Power comes from a permanent magnet synchronous motor rated at 201 hp and 221 hp, paired with a CATL lithium iron phosphate battery. The maximum speed is 163 km/h, while battery capacity and range information have yet to be disclosed.
In August, the GAC Aion brand sold 35,355 vehicles globally, marking a 32% year-on-year decline compared to the 52,057 vehicles sold in August of the previous year. Aion plans to launch four new models in the second half of 2024.
Adrian is an Editor. Psychology graduate with over 4 years in the automotive industry, 3 in front of the camera. Occasionally seen at his family owned tyre shop. He will only buy cars that pass the big bottle test.
