Vehicle model
Aion S
The Aion S represents the ambitious entry of GAC New Energy Automobile Technology (now simply Aion) into the compact electric sedan segment. Launched in April 2019 on the Chinese market, this sedan marked the beginning of a new era for the Canton, China-based automaker. Born from GAC Group (Guangzhou Automobile Group), the Aion S was developed to meet the growing demand for affordable and technologically advanced electric vehicles in the Chinese market, as emissions standards tightened and government incentives favored electrification. The model takes its name from the Aion brand, which would become an independent entity in 2020, specializing exclusively in intelligent electric vehicles. The design of the Aion S reflects a resolutely modern and futuristic approach, with a closed grille typical of electric vehicles, adorned with distinctive LED light elements forming a recognizable visual signature. The sedan's proportions, with its generous wheelbase of 2,750 mm, optimize interior space while housing the battery in the floor. The streamlined silhouette displays a drag coefficient of 0.245, contributing to maximizing range. The interior offers a spacious cabin dominated by two screens, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch central infotainment screen, both integrated into a clean dashboard with horizontal lines. At launch, the Aion S was offered with an electric powertrain of approximately 135 kW (184 hp) powered by lithium-ion batteries of different capacities, offering ranges from 410 to 510 km according to the Chinese NEDC cycle. The sedan positioned itself as an accessible electric alternative to traditional combustion sedans, with competitive pricing made possible by production scale and Chinese government subsidies. The model quickly achieved success, surpassing 10,000 units sold in its first months of commercialization. In 2020, Aion introduced the Aion S Plus, an evolved version offering aesthetic improvements, increased range thanks to more energy-dense batteries, and more advanced driver assistance technologies. The range expanded with versions offering up to 602 km of NEDC range. In 2023, a second generation was unveiled, bringing refreshed design, an improved platform, and integration of higher-level driver assistance technologies, including semi-autonomous features. The Aion S also served as a base for variants dedicated to the taxi and fleet market, consolidating its presence in major Chinese cities. The model helped establish Aion as a serious player in the Chinese electric automotive industry, alongside competitors such as BYD, Xpeng, and NIO. While primarily sold in China, the Aion S was occasionally exported to certain emerging markets, demonstrating the manufacturer's international ambitions. With hundreds of thousands of units produced, the Aion S consolidated Aion's reputation for reliable and technologically competitive electric vehicles, paving the way for an expanded range of electric models.
History
History of the Aion S
The Aion S represents the ambitious entry of GAC New Energy Automobile Technology (now simply Aion) into the compact electric sedan segment. Launched in April 2019 on the Chinese market, this sedan marked the beginning of a new era for the Canton, China-based automaker. Born from GAC Group (Guangzhou Automobile Group), the Aion S was developed to meet the growing demand for affordable and technologically advanced electric vehicles in the Chinese market, as emissions standards tightened and government incentives favored electrification. The model takes its name from the Aion brand, which would become an independent entity in 2020, specializing exclusively in intelligent electric vehicles. The design of the Aion S reflects a resolutely modern and futuristic approach, with a closed grille typical of electric vehicles, adorned with distinctive LED light elements forming a recognizable visual signature. The sedan's proportions, with its generous wheelbase of 2,750 mm, optimize interior space while housing the battery in the floor. The streamlined silhouette displays a drag coefficient of 0.245, contributing to maximizing range. The interior offers a spacious cabin dominated by two screens, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch central infotainment screen, both integrated into a clean dashboard with horizontal lines. At launch, the Aion S was offered with an electric powertrain of approximately 135 kW (184 hp) powered by lithium-ion batteries of different capacities, offering ranges from 410 to 510 km according to the Chinese NEDC cycle. The sedan positioned itself as an accessible electric alternative to traditional combustion sedans, with competitive pricing made possible by production scale and Chinese government subsidies. The model quickly achieved success, surpassing 10,000 units sold in its first months of commercialization. In 2020, Aion introduced the Aion S Plus, an evolved version offering aesthetic improvements, increased range thanks to more energy-dense batteries, and more advanced driver assistance technologies. The range expanded with versions offering up to 602 km of NEDC range. In 2023, a second generation was unveiled, bringing refreshed design, an improved platform, and integration of higher-level driver assistance technologies, including semi-autonomous features. The Aion S also served as a base for variants dedicated to the taxi and fleet market, consolidating its presence in major Chinese cities. The model helped establish Aion as a serious player in the Chinese electric automotive industry, alongside competitors such as BYD, Xpeng, and NIO. While primarily sold in China, the Aion S was occasionally exported to certain emerging markets, demonstrating the manufacturer's international ambitions. With hundreds of thousands of units produced, the Aion S consolidated Aion's reputation for reliable and technologically competitive electric vehicles, paving the way for an expanded range of electric models.
Technology
Technologies, engines and platforms
The Aion S is built on the GEP (GAC Electric Platform), specifically designed for electric vehicles, allowing optimal battery integration in the floor and balanced weight distribution. The permanent magnet synchronous electric motor typically develops 135 to 150 kW, offering brisk acceleration and quiet operation. The lithium-ion batteries, developed in partnership with leading Chinese suppliers, offer capacities ranging from 49.4 to 58.8 kWh depending on versions, enabling ranges of 410 to 602 km (NEDC). The regenerative braking system optimizes efficiency. The Aion S integrates advanced driver assistance systems including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, automatic emergency braking, and on recent versions, automated parking capabilities and semi-autonomous highway driving. 4G connectivity and OTA (Over-The-Air) software updates keep the system current.
Tires and wheels
Tire and wheel compatibility
Tire dimensions for the Aion S vary depending on model year and trim level, generally ranging from 215/55R17 to 225/45R18. It is recommended to check the door jamb label or owner's manual for the exact dimension corresponding to your specific version.
Other models