GAC Aion unveils the UT—a possible rival to the MG4?

GAC Aion, the electric vehicle division of GAC Group, has just introduced its latest model, the Aion UT. Previously known by its codename AY2, the Aion UT hatchback is designed primarily for urban mobility, the Aion UT features a modern electric hatchback design, including a long wheelbase with short overhangs, flush door handles, a streamlined profile, and oval-shaped headlights. 

The car is expected to measure 4,275 mm in length, 1,850 mm in width, and 1,575 mm in height, with a 2,750 mm wheelbase. This puts around the sights of similar cars like the MG 4 and the BYD Dolphin.

As reported by CarNewsChina, the Aion UT is powered by a single electric motor generating 134 hp, drawing energy from a lithium iron phosphate battery pack, though its capacity hasn't been disclosed yet. Official sketches indicate the EV will deliver over 600 km of range. For comparison, the larger GAC Aion RT sedan, equipped with a 68.1 kWh battery, is rated at up to 650 km under the CLTC range standard.

Buyers will reportedly have a choice between 16-inch and 17-inch wheels, along with LED lighting at both the front and rear, and optional two-tone roof designs.

Comic book-style sketches from GAC Aion, shared by CarNewsChina and Carscoops, reveal a minimalist interior design featuring a two-spoke steering wheel and freestanding instrument and infotainment screens, with very few physical buttons.

The UT hatchback will be launched at the Guangzhou Auto Show, nothing has been confirmed yet in regards to the global market. If the Aion UT does make an appearance here, it could be a great competitor to MG’s electric hatchback, the MG 4 EV.

Speaking of the MG 4 EV, MG’s five-door EV hatchback features a rear-motor, rear-wheel-drive setup with two variants. The MG4 EV Standard variant delivers 168 hp and 250 Nm of torque from a 51 kWh battery, allowing for an estimated NEDC range of up to 350 km. This version comes with 17-inch wheels.

In contrast, the MG4 EV Lux offers a larger battery and greater power output, with 201 hp and 250 Nm of torque. Equipped with a 64 kWh battery, the Lux variant achieves a claimed NEDC range of up to 435 km. This model upgrades to 18-inch alloy wheels over the Standard’s 17-inch wheels.

Given what we know about the UT hatchback, if GAC Aion decides to introduce it to the local market, the hatchback EV segment could become quite exciting. In the meantime, you can explore the GAC Car Guide on AutoDeal.com.ph for more details.