Following the announcement of its expansion into the South African market, GAC Motor has confirmed its local product portfolio, scheduled to arrive in SA during 2024.
In February 2024, GAC Motor announced its expansion into the South African market, with the Chinese automaker signing a distribution agreement with Salvador Caetano Auto. Now, GAC Motor has unveiled the models it has penned in for local shores. Scheduled to arrive in SA during 2024, GAC Motor SA’s model range will comprise three derivatives, the Emkoo, Emzoom, and Aion Y.
Looking for your next new and used vehicle? Search here with CARmag!
GAC Emkoo
Measuring 1 670 mm in height, 1 901 mm in width, 4 680 mm in length, and 2 750 mm between the fore and aft axles, the Emkoo comes in the shape of a five-seater SUV. Although the local arm of the Chinese carmaker has yet to confirm engine specifications, overseas, this model is available with the option of a 177 kW/270 Nm 1.5-litre turbopetrol powertrain, coupled with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, and a 2.0-litre hybrid set-up, the latter of which produces 138 kW and 180 Nm. Both models direct power to the front wheels.
GAC Emzoom
Another GAC SUV scheduled for SA, the Emzoom slots in below the Emkoo in terms of size. The Emzoom measures 1 600 mm in height, 1 850 mm in width, and 4 410 mm in length. Overseas, the Emzoom is exclusively available with a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, tuned to churn out 130 kW and 270 Nm of torque, the latter of which available from a lowly 1 400 r/min. The unit is coupled with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, which directs power to the front axle.
Related: Another Chinese Brand For SA? GAC Motor Targets Local Entry
GAC Aion Y
Following the launch of the Emkoo and Emzoom, GAC Motor will introduce the Aion Y to SA shores. This all-electric crossover/SUV measures 1 650 mm in height, 1 870 mm in width, and 4 535 mm in length. Coupled with a 63.2kWh lithium-ion battery pack, the five-seater’s electric arrangement produces 100 kW and 225 Nm of torque. The firm claims an all-electric range of 490 km (on the NEDC cycle).
“I believe that the South African market represents a compelling opportunity for GAC Motor with its dynamic automotive landscape, coupled with a growing demand for innovation. Positioned strategically as a gateway to the broader African continent, this market holds immense potential for us to establish a strong presence, drive revenue growth, and solidify our position as a key player in the region,” said Leslie Ramsoomar, Managing director of Salvador Caetano South Africa.
Looking for your next new and used vehicle? Search here with CARmag!
