GAC calls out Tesla in launch of a new all-electric sedan

GAC Motor, a giant Chinese automaker that is going electric, is launching a new electric sedan and it decided to call out Tesla while doing so. 

China’s GAC is currently making an important transition.

Last year, the company announced the construction of a giant $6.5 billion electric vehicle industrial park to jump-start the effort.

At 2018 Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition this week, they unveiled the latest electric vehicle addition to the lineup.

GAC describes the vehicle, called Aion S, in a press release:

“Aion S has a driving mileage of over 500 kilometers and is equipped with L2 assisted driving system and Bosch Body Stability System 9.3. It will be available in the market in 2019. Through GAC NE’s brand-new APP, customers can customize their demands and place orders online.”

They claim a range of 500 km (310 miles), but the real-world range is likely much lower – though they claim great aerodynamic performance, which should help.

GAC said that it is comparable to Tesla Model 3’s drag coefficient.

It’s not the first comparison that they made with Tesla.

The company said that it will “transcend” the California-based automaker, which is seen as the leader in electrification.

They wrote:

“GAC NE is striving to transcend Tesla with series of core technology and sustainable innovation.”

Feng Xingya, General Manager of GAC and Chairman of GAC NE, added:

“As GAC’s strategic carrier for the development of new energy vehicles, GAC NE will build itself into one of the most competitive and innovative technology companies worldwide, transforming from a car manufacturer to a comprehensive mobility solution provider. GAC NE aims to become the world’s leading and trusted value creator of green and smart mobility.”

They plan to start production of the Aion S next year for the Chinese market and GAC reiterated its global ambitions.

In terms of all-electric vehicles, they also launched the GE3 all-electric crossover last year. The production specs are fairly impressive for a vehicle of its price range: 150,200 to 173,200 yuan (US$ 22,200 to 25,600).