GAC has made its intentions crystal clear at Auto China 2026: it is aiming to become a major automotive exporter with Australia positioned as a key market in the company’s long-term growth plans.
GAC International unveiled several new products alongside an upgraded international strategy focused on technology, integration and long-term expansion at its first dedicated international launch event, Auto China 2026, in Beijing.
This announcement also comes as GAC rapidly grows its local dealer network and prepares to expand its lineup for Australian buyers.
Headquartered in Guangzhou, China, GAC officially entered the Australian market in November 2025. Kevin Shu currently serves as the CEO of GAC Australia. The brand is now selling these vehicles in Australia: GAC Aion V, GAC Emzoom, GAC M8 PHEV, and GAC Aion UT.
GAC outlines international growth strategy
GAC outlined its international roadmap at Auto China 2026, using four core themes: Craftsmanship, Trust, Technology, and Ecosystem. Together, these pillars form the foundation of GAC’s broader strategy of “full-chain globalisation.” The company says the strategy is designed to transition GAC from a traditional exporter into a globally integrated automotive brand.
The company has now openly set its sights on becoming one of China’s leading automotive exporters by 2030.
Kevin Shu, CEO of GAC Australia, said the company’s growing engineering and technology capabilities are allowing local teams to select products tailored specifically for Australian buyers.
“By evolving from a traditional exporter to a leader in global integration, we are setting a new standard for Chinese brands on the world stage,” Mr Shu said.
“Our R&D powerhouse provides a depth in product and broader technologies, giving our local team the ability to hand-pick the exact products that meet the demands of Australian consumers.”
Also read: Top 5 best-selling Chinese car brands in Australia [2025]
GAC reveals new SUVs, EVs, and futuristic technology
Auto China 2026 served as a showcase for GAC’s latest generation of vehicles and technologies. Here are the major reveals by GAC at the Beijing event:
GAC S7
GAC S7 is a premium SUV and the first mass-production model built on the brand’s new EV+ energy platform. The S7 features GAC’s self-developed ADiGO GSD system and focuses on three major strengths: full-scenario assisted driving capability, intelligent luxury driving experience, and premium smart cabin comfort.
GAC Hyptec S600
GAC also unveiled the Hyptec S600, a premium mid-to-large SUV offered in both plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and fully electric form. According to GAC, key highlights include up to 800km driving range, advanced autonomous driving technology, and a striking new design language.
GAC YUE7
The YUE7 is for buyers wanting a more rugged family SUV. The model features a class-leading integrated frame, digital chassis technology, and off-road capability combined with daily comfort.
GAC Aion pushes EV innovation further
The company’s Aion sub-brand also debuted a fresh brand logo alongside two important new models.
The Aion i60 features the brand’s next-generation ADiMOTION technology and claims a massive combined CLTC range of up to 1,240km. The Aion N60 became the world’s first vehicle to feature an amorphous alloy-silicon carbide electric drive system.
Huawei partnership debuts globally
Another major talking point of GAC at the Auto China 2026 was the international debut of the Aistaland brand, a joint venture between GAC and Huawei Qiankun. Its first model, the Aistaland GT7, made its global debut at the show, signalling GAC’s growing push into software-driven, AI-focused mobility solutions.
We still don’t know whether these car models will launch locally.
GAC Australia grows dealer network
GAC Australia used the Auto China 2026 platform to highlight major progress locally. The company has now expanded to 30 dealer locations nationwide, and it’s only getting started. GAC says it plans to build a network of more than 100 dealerships across Australia within the next three years.
The company is also exploring expansion beyond capital cities as its local model range continues to grow.
Mr Shu said establishing strong customer support was critical for winning over Australian buyers who may still be cautious about adopting a relatively new automotive brand.
“Developing our network of dealerships here in Australia is a key priority for our ‘In Australia, For Australia’ strategy,” he said.
“We understand the trepidation that prospective buyers may have when committing to a new brand, and exceptional service must be provided alongside exceptional products.”
“We have paid close attention to selecting partners that we are confident will deliver the highest levels of support to GAC owners for the long-term.”
He also pointed to GAC’s strong customer satisfaction reputation in China.
“In China, GAC has been recognised as #1 for customer satisfaction in the J.D. Power surveys time and time again. We aspire to replicate this here in Australia, along with the growing acceptance of our products.”
Also read: Top 10 best-selling Chinese cars in Australia [2025]
GAC’s growing Australian lineup
GAC only officially launched in Australia in late 2025, but its local lineup is already expanding quickly. Its current models include:
- GAC Aion V electric SUV
- GAC Emzoom compact SUV
- GAC M8 PHEV luxury people mover
- GAC Aion UT electric hatchback (just launched)
GAC has also established extensive vehicle warranty programs and a Melbourne-based parts warehouse to support that growth.
The bigger picture
GAC used Auto China 2026 to position itself as a technology-focused automotive brand with broader international ambitions. The company isn’t simply chasing export numbers but trying to position itself as a global technology-driven automotive brand capable of competing with established international players.
And in Australia, where Chinese brands are gaining momentum at a rapid pace, GAC appears determined to build trust not just through flashy technology and long-range electric cars, but through dealer support, customer service and long-term local investment.
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