GAC Considers Production Facility in Europe: Strategic Move to Bypass Import Tariffs

Chinese vehicle manufacturer GAC is considering the production of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in Europe to mitigate the impact of the stringent EU import tariffs. This consideration was hinted at by comments from a manager for the company's international business. In the spotlight at the Paris Motor Show is GAC's Aion V electric SUV, specifically designed for the European market. The vehicle promises a range of over 520 kilometers on a full charge and allows for an additional 255 kilometers of driving distance with a 15-minute charge. Alongside the Aion V, GAC is showcasing five other models at the show, highlighting the importance of the European market for the company's future growth plans. Wei Heigang, a manager at GAC International, emphasized to Reuters the openness of the European market and acknowledged that tariff policies affect the company. In light of the tariffs, Heigang pointed out that local production could be a possible solution to this problem. "We are actively exploring this possibility," he said, according to the Reuters report.