Jakarta. GAC Aion officially enters the Indonesian market with the launch of the Aion Y Plus on Wednesday. Priced competitively starting at Rp 415 million ($25,284), this electric vehicle aims to carve a share of the growing market.

Ocean Ma, President of AION Southeast Asia, said the company plans to establish Indonesia as a core assembly base for GAC Aion vehicles in the ASEAN region.

"Indonesia's vast population of approximately 270 million and the rising trend in car purchases are key factors influencing our decision to enter this market. Additionally, Indonesia is rich in raw materials for manufacturing electric vehicle batteries, making it a strategic consideration. There's a possibility that battery production currently based in China may shift to Indonesia," he said in Jakarta.

The Aion Y Plus will be available to customers from July 2024. It features a unique design blending elements of a small multipurpose van (MPV) and a sport utility vehicle (SUV). Equipped with a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, it can charge up to 80 percent in just 30 minutes using a DC fast charger. It also supports Level 2 charging, requiring around 8 hours for a full charge. The vehicle boasts a battery capacity of 63.2 kWh, delivering 225 Nm torque and a driving range of 490 kilometers. Its maximum speed is limited to 150 kilometers per hour.

The Aion Y Plus includes a modern design accentuated by a panoramic sunroof, adding a touch of luxury. Its spacious interior is a standout feature, competing with models like the BYD Atto 3 and Chery Omoda E5. The front seats can fully recline, providing a bed-like space of 1.8 meters.

Externally, the vehicle features prominent LED headlights in an "Angel's Wing" design with seven horizontal blades. Despite its crossover appearance, this electric vehicle retains the distinctive characteristics of a mini MPV.

During a recent media trip to Guangzhou, China, journalists from Beritasatu.com had the opportunity to test drive the Aion Y Plus at the GAC Aion factory test drive area. The vehicle impressed with its smooth ride experience, even at speeds of up to 150 kilometers per hour.

The Aion Y Plus is offered in two variants: Exclusive with a range of 410 kilometers priced at Rp 415 million on the road (OTR), and Premium with a range of 490 kilometers priced at Rp 475 million.

In comparison, competitors like the Chery Omoda E5 are priced at around Rp 488.8 million, Wuling Cloud EC at Rp 398 million, Vinfast VF 6 at Rp 344.98 million, BYD Dolphin at Rp 425 million, Neta V at Rp 317 million, and MG 4 EV at Rp 423 million.

GAC Aion enters Indonesia through a joint venture with partner Indomobil Group. Plans include establishing 30 business networks in Indonesia by 2024, expanding to 70 by 2025.