GAC Brand Launches in Ethiopia with NEVs, Strengthening China-Africa Cooperation in Auto Industry
GAC Brand Launches in Ethiopia with NEVs
On May 27, 2025, GAC International held an impressive brand launch event in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia's capital, showcasing its commitment to bringing green mobility to the region. The event marked the debut of two significant new energy vehicles (NEVs): the global strategic model AION Y Plus and the premium intelligent electric SUV ES9. This initiative stands as a testament to the strengthening of Sino-African cooperation in the automobile industry.
Dignitaries including Alemu Sime Feyisa, Ethiopia's Minister of Transport and Logistics, and Zhang Wei, Counsellor at the Chinese Mission to the African Union, graced the occasion, highlighting the importance of this partnership. Alemu Sime emphasized Ethiopia's commitment to improving its business environment to support GAC's growth.
GAC International's President Feng Xingya noted the vast potential of Ethiopia's 120 million populace and the government's push to ban fuel-powered vehicles, presenting a ripe opportunity for NEVs. He assured attendees of GAC's dedication to supporting Ethiopia's green transition. Additionally, Mr. Zhang of Huajian Group pledged to establish charging stations and develop a collaborative industrial center, further modernizing Ethiopia's automotive sector.
The launch event is part of GAC's broader globalization strategy, dubbed “One GAC 2.0.” This strategy focuses on creating a complete ecosystem for energy vehicles, which will support end-to-end solutions, including product development, smart manufacturing, distribution, and service. The introduction of the AION Y Plus and ES9 represents a significant stride in GAC's leadership in the NEV sector, offering electric and plug-in hybrid options.
The company also inaugurated its first flagship showroom in Addis Ababa, with plans for further expansion throughout the country. GAC aims to enhance local production through its KD factory and collaborate with Huajian's energy storage and charging infrastructure network, contributing to a sustainable green mobility ecosystem.
Both the Ethiopian Investment Commission and the Ministry of Transport praised GAC's “Ethiopia Action” initiative, confirming its alignment with the national automotive strategy, which supports the “Made in Ethiopia 2025” project. Ethiopia, being the gateway to East Africa, is set to become a key hub for GAC as it implements the Belt and Road Initiative and advances green mobility transformation in the continent.
In summary, GAC's recent launch in Ethiopia not only introduces innovative automotive solutions but also signifies a collaborative effort towards a greener future, reinforcing the bonds between China and Africa while addressing regional mobility needs.