GAC Group Confirms Localized Production Plans in Brazil
According to an official announcement from GAC Group, on May 12, during his visit to China, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva met with Wei Haigang, General Manager of GAC International, in Beijing. The two sides held in-depth discussions on GAC's phased achievements in entering the Brazilian market, its development plans in Brazil, and advancing China-Brazil cooperation in the green mobility industry.
During the meeting with President Lula, GAC Group confirmed its plans for localized production in Brazil. The company also announced that it will establish an R&D center in Brazil in collaboration with the University of Campinas (Unicamp), the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), and the Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), fully integrating GAC's R&D system into the country. Additionally, GAC expressed its willingness to provide new energy vehicles for the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
President Lula stated that GAC Group's strategic initiatives in Brazil demonstrate China's contribution to global sustainable development and serve as a model for "South-South cooperation." He emphasized that, against the backdrop of current global geopolitics, GAC's commitment to Brazil is a significant example of mutual trust among Global South nations, sending a positive message to the world about multilateralism and reciprocal cooperation.
Wei Haigang noted that GAC's Brazilian subsidiary was officially established late last year, and the company is now fully prepared to enter the Brazilian market. On May 23, GAC will hold a brand launch and new vehicle premiere event in São Paulo, marking its official entry into Brazil. "GAC's mission is to strengthen ties between Brazil and China and promote mutual development," Wei said. "Our goal is to become a catalyst for technological progress in Latin America's largest economy."
GAC Group plans to introduce three new models in Brazil: the AION Y Plus and Hyper HT SUVs, and the AION ES sedan. Reports indicate that the AION Y Plus will offer multiple range options, including 410 km and 610 km variants. The AION ES will be equipped with battery packs ranging from 50 kWh to 69.9 kWh, providing ranges of 510 km and 610 km, respectively. The Hyper HT will feature two battery options: 70 kWh and 99.5 kWh.
In May, several Chinese companies announced future investment plans in Brazil, including Meituan, Missa Ice City, renewable energy firm ENVISION Energy, and Great Wall Motor.