As electric car sales surge and the 2030 petrol ban looms, Chinese giant GAC is entering the UK market with two high-tech models, promising premium features and competitive pricing aimed at shaking up Britain’s fast-growing EV sector
British drivers will soon see a new name on the roads as Chinese carmaker GAC prepares to launch its first electric vehicles in the UK.
The company, one of China’s biggest automotive brands, will introduce two models – the Aion V SUV and Aion UT hatchback – in early 2026 as part of a major push into Europe.
GAC’s entry comes as demand for electric cars in Britain accelerates, with more than 16 per cent of new vehicles registered last year running on battery power.
The Guangzhou-based firm says its cars will combine advanced technology, premium design and competitive pricing aimed at challenging established European brands.
The launch is being supported by a new collaboration with Jameel Motors, which will distribute the vehicles and handle sales in the UK.
According to GAC, the first models will be available for order this year, with deliveries starting in the first quarter of 2026.
In a statement, GAC said: “This partnership with Jameel Motors signifies GAC’s formal entry into the UK market.
“As one of Europe’s most crucial automotive markets, the UK has shown remarkable growth in demand for electric vehicles.
“As demand for electric vehicles continues to intensify in the UK market, GAC will gradually roll out its model portfolio, consistently offering diverse premium green mobility options to customers of the United Kingdom.”
The agreement with Jameel Motors was signed in London on 15 July and marks GAC’s formal entry into the UK market. Jameel Motors, one of the world’s largest dealership groups, will oversee sales and after-sales services, providing an initial foothold for the Chinese brand in Britain.
The Aion V and Aion UT form part of GAC’s global strategic line-up. The Aion V is described as a “smart SUV” designed for families and urban drivers, while the Aion UT is positioned as a premium hatchback. Both vehicles include advanced driver-assistance features and GAC’s proprietary electric drivetrain systems.
The UK expansion follows GAC’s earlier entry into Poland in April this year, also through Jameel Motors. These partnerships form part of GAC’s “Europe Market Plan” a central pillar of its so-called “One GAC 2.0” strategy, which aims to build a comprehensive “full-chain ecosystem” across Europe.
Chinese EV makers such as BYD, Nio and MG (owned by SAIC) are already making significant gains in Europe, competing on both technology and cost. Analysts expect Chinese brands to claim a major share of the UK’s EV market within five years, as the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel cars approaches.
“Moving forward, guided by the principle of ‘In Europe, For Europe’, GAC will steadfastly execute its Europe Market Plan to become a reliable mobility partner for European consumers,” GAC said in a statement.
Main image: Senior executives from GAC INTERNATIONAL and Jameel Motors were present at the signing ceremony to jointly witness what was described as a “pivotal occasion”. Photo: GAC
