GAC AION UT in electric vehicle tests
The goal of our long-term test is primarily to determine whether this small urban electric vehicle from China can meet the daily needs of an active family. We will take it on both long distances and challenging terrains, while evaluating all its features and technological innovations. But one step at a time — first, some facts and figures about our new editorial companion.
GAC AION UT: Dimensions
The tested electric car is a C-segment hatchback that combines compact dimensions with a spacious interior. The body measures 4270 mm in length, 1850 mm in width, and 1575 mm in height, making it well-suited for daily urban driving. Particularly interesting is the wheelbase of 2750 mm, which allows for more space for passengers.
One of the car’s biggest advantages is its trunk that holds 440 liters, making it a practical choice. The vehicle also features a turning radius of 10.7 m. Depending on the trim level, the curb weight ranges from 1670 to 1700 kg, with the Luxury version offering additional amenities such as a panoramic roof and an electrically opening trunk lid.
GAC AION UT: Range and Technology
The vehicle is powered by an electric motor that generates 204 HP and 210 Nm of torque. Power is delivered to the front axle, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds. Energy is stored in a 60 kWh LFP battery, which enables a range of up to 430 km per charge according to WLTP standards, with a claimed average consumption of 16.4 kWh/100 km.
In terms of charging, the vehicle delivers up to 87 kW at fast DC chargers, meaning it can go from 10% to 80% charge in about 32 minutes. For AC charging, a 11 kW onboard charger is available. The vehicle also features amenities to enhance comfort, including a heat pump, a V2L function for powering external devices, a large 14.6-inch multimedia screen, and driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, 360° cameras, and blind spot monitoring.
GAC AION UT: Competition in the Market
Compared to other competitors in the market, GAC remains one of the most attractive price options. It performs even best in our comparison. The BYD Dolphin has almost identical range to GAC, despite having a price that is 19,100 zł higher, so at current list prices, the AION UT is more cost-effective.
Model
Battery
Price from (gross)
WLTP Range
Maximum DC Charging Power
GAC AION UT PREMIUM
60 kWh
129,900 zł
430
87 kW
VW ID.3 Neo Life
58 kWh
169,890 zł
492 km
105 kW
Skoda Elroq Essence
58 kWh
Approx. 164,000 zł
Approx. 430-440 km
105 kW
Kia EV4 Hatcback Air
58.3 kWh
173,900 zł
440 km
80 kW
BYD Dolphin Comfort
60.4 kWh
151,900 zł
427 km
110 kW
GAC AION UT: long-distance test of electric vehicles
Still, the offerings from Volkswagen Group, as well as BYD and Kia, are quite familiar to us. That makes us even more curious about how the urban-oriented model from GAC will perform in our long-distance test, especially since we’ll have the chance to evaluate it under various conditions over several months.
GAC AION UT: GALLERY
Jan Wiewiór