GAC will add a short-range Aion UT variant to its all-electric Australian line-up for buyers who want a cheaper entry point into EV ownership. The new version focuses on urban driving and affordability, and GAC plans to launch it in late 2026, with local pricing and equipment details to come closer to launch.
The new variant will sit below the existing GAC Aion UT Premium in the local range which is priced at $31,990 drive-away.
Current entry-level – the GAC Aion UT Premium
Upcoming short-range variant pricing
The 2026 GAC Aion UT lineup starts at $31,990 drive-away nationwide now, and this price tag gives buyers a guide to where the new short-range version could sit, although GAC has not confirmed its final price; the new variant is expected to be positioned as a more affordable option.
GAC will release further information about the short-range Aion UT’s Australian specification and pricing over the coming months, and it will arrive here in late 2026.
Smaller battery and range
The short-range Aion UT will use a smaller 44kWh Magazine Battery 2.0 pack, and the brand claims the battery ranks among the world’s safest battery-pack units.
The new variant will deliver a claimed 320km WLTP range, which is decent for everyday urban driving. GAC has not yet confirmed the full Australian specification.
The higher-tier Premium and Luxury variants feature a 60kWh LFP battery and 430km of combined WLTP driving range and give an output of 150kW / 210Nm.
Australia’s cheapest EVs
Three new EV models currently sit below the $30,000 threshold in Australia.
- BYD Atto 1 Essential: $23,990 + on-road costs
- Geely EX2 Complete: $26,490 + on-road costs
- BYD Dolphin Essential: $29,990 + on-road costs
The upcoming Aion UT short-range variant could strengthen GAC’s position in this part of the market, although its Australian price has not yet been confirmed.
Buyers willing to add a few thousand dollars can already move into larger or longer-range EV options, such as:
- MG4 EV Urban Essence 43: from $31,990 drive-away
- GAC Aion UT Premium: from $31,990 drive-away
Interior of the top-tier GAC Aion UT Luxury variant
GAC wants first-time EV buyers
GAC Australia CEO Kevin Shu said, “GAC is committed to delivering products that are tailored to the needs of Australian consumers, and in this instance, the call for more accessible entry-level EVs was particularly strong.”
“With its innovative powertrain technologies, distinctive European-influenced design, and a generously spacious interior that defies its compact exterior footprint, I am confident the short-range Aion UT will be a leading option not just for those considering their first EV, but also those looking for their first car.”
The short-range Aion UT is due to arrive in Australia in late 2026, with GAC Australia expected to reveal local pricing, specifications and equipment details closer to launch.
The short-range Aion UT will arrive in Australia in late 2026, as the country’s EV market surpasses 650,000 electric vehicles. GAC Australia will reveal local pricing and specifications closer to launch.
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