Chinese EVs are entering Japan one after another, and GAC is also joining in

China’s state-owned large automobile group GAC Group will officially enter the Japanese market with pure electric vehicles (EVs) in summer 2026. Sales will be conducted through agents, with a target of 2,000 orders by 2027. Following BYD, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, which focuses on high-end EVs, has also entered the Japanese market. Currently, the number of EV manufacturers in China has surged, leading to intense competition. More companies are turning their attention to Japan, where EV adoption is relatively slower, seeking new growth opportunities.

The agency sales in Japan will be managed by M Mobility Japan, based in Nakano, Tokyo. GAC will launch its EV brand “AION” in Japan, aiming for 200 orders in 2026 and increasing to 2,000 orders in 2027.

Initially, two models will be introduced: the compact “AION UT” and the SUV “AION V.” The starting price for AION UT is 3.3 million yen (approximately 149,800 RMB), and for AION V, it is 5 million yen (about 227,000 RMB). Both models support Japan’s exclusive fast-charging standard “CHAdeMO.” Early sales will be limited to corporate clients with business vehicle needs.

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