MANILA, Philippines (July 2026) — Buying an electric vehicle no longer means settling for a niche option. One of the world’s fastest-growing EV hatchbacks has officially arrived in the Philippines, bringing a mix of long range, spacious cabin, and a price tag that dips below the PHP 1 million mark.
The GAC AION UT has been making waves overseas after recording 3,331 global sales in May 2026, a 60 percent increase from the previous month. The model has also picked up several international awards, including honors in Thailand and Mexico, as it expands into markets across Asia, Australia, Latin America and Europe.
Built for city life with extra room inside
Although classified as a compact hatchback, the AION UT offers a 2,750mm wheelbase, giving passengers more legroom than buyers would normally expect in this segment.
Designed by GAC’s Milan Design Center, the EV features what the company calls its “Digital Magic Cube” design language, highlighted by a sleek fastback profile and a youthful look aimed at first-time EV buyers and young families.
Safety is also a key selling point. The vehicle uses GAC’s Magazine Battery 2.0 technology, which the company says has maintained a zero spontaneous combustion safety record.
Steven Wang, senior vice president of GAC International, said bringing the AION UT to the Philippines expands the company’s growing lineup of electrified vehicles while giving more Pinoy drivers access to sustainable mobility.
Early owners say the switch has paid off
Among the first local owners is Paul Lacson, a government employee from Silay City, who already owns a GAC Emzoom.
He said the positive experience with his previous vehicle made it easier to choose the AION UT for daily driving. According to Lacson, the EV delivered impressive highway performance and consumed only about 20 percent of its battery over a 100-kilometer trip.
Lacson added that he compared the AION UT with several competing EVs and hybrids before deciding it offered better features, cabin space and long-term savings.
Another early adopter, quality analyst Jeff Filio, said he initially discovered the vehicle through an online advertisement before researching its driving range and technology.
He and his wife eventually purchased the two-tone version after visiting GAC Kawit, saying the combination of design, driving range and connected features convinced them to make the jump to an electric vehicle.
Price, colors and introductory offers
The GAC AION UT Elite carries a suggested retail price of PHP 1,068,000 (approximately US$18,400).
Until July 31, 2026, buyers can take advantage of an introductory price of PHP 998,000 (approximately US$17,200), reflecting a PHP 50,000 discount. GAC is also offering an additional PHP 20,000 discount for the first 400 units sold.
Available exterior colors include:
- Champs-Elysees Beige
- Emerald Green
- Rococo White
- Seine Silver
- Two-tone Rococo White with Emerald Green roof
The cabin comes with a black interior and black headliner.
Warranty and availability
The AION UT is now available for reservation at GAC dealerships nationwide.
EV buyers receive an eight-year or 160,000-kilometer vehicle warranty, along with an eight-year or 200,000-kilometer warranty covering the core electric drive system. Owners also receive two years of complimentary roadside assistance.
GAC Philippines currently operates a network of 30 dealerships nationwide and continues to expand its EV lineup as demand for electric mobility grows in the country.
