GAC's Strategic Move: Strengthening European Presence at the 2026 Paris Motor Show

The 2026 Paris Motor Show, a significant event in the automotive calendar, kicked off on October 12 at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, showcasing innovations and future trends. Among the many exhibitors, GAC Group emerged as a standout, unveiling a comprehensive plan to deepen its roots in Europe. This initiative, resonating under the banner “Engineering for a better life”, signifies GAC's strategic approach towards becoming a more significant player in the European automotive market.

As the birthplace of the modern automotive industry, Europe has always held a premium position in the global automotive landscape. GAC recognized this and launched its European market strategy in 2024, professing a commitment to “In Europe, For Europe.” This vision is focused on long-term growth and establishing mutually beneficial partnerships through full-chain localization, which encompasses research and development (R&D), manufacturing, sales, and energy.

GAC's ambitious localization strategy is prominently showcased by the establishment of its Milan Design Center, which actively supports local design development. The company is further bolstering its presence with the construction of a European R&D Center planned for completion by 2027. This center is expected to house a local engineering team of over 100 professionals, solidifying GAC's investment in European talent and innovation. Currently, GAC has started to manufacture the AION V and AION UT in Europe, both of which have successfully achieved five-star ratings on the Euro NCAP safety scale.

A key part of GAC's strategy is its logistics operations. The Rotterdam Parts Distribution Center has been set up to optimize supply chain operations, ensuring efficient delivery across the continent. As of now, GAC has established a sales and service network that spans 30 European countries, with ambitions to open over 180 outlets by the end of the year, thereby enhancing accessibility for European consumers.

Additionally, GAC's introduction of GAC. THE ENGINEERS, a newly minted brand proposition targeted at the European market, aligns with the high standards for quality that European customers expect. This brand reflects the rigor and craftsmanship prevalent in engineering—key traits that GAC aims to embody in its offerings. Rooted in over 20 years of collaboration with esteemed partners like Toyota and Honda, GAC boasts advancements in proprietary technologies. Innovations such as ADiMOTION Power, Embedded-Frame Multi-Ring Cage Body, ADiGO Intelligence, and the X-SOUL Architecture 4.0 demonstrate a blend of global reliability and cutting-edge Chinese intelligent technology.

Looking to the future, GAC is committed to applying an engineering mindset to further enhance its products and technology while deepening local services and ecosystems. Their goal is not just to expand but to integrate comprehensively into the European industrial landscape and green energy ecosystems, reinforcing their positioning as a trusted mobility brand that resonates with European consumers.

The 2026 Paris Motor Show does not only mark GAC’s introduction of new energy vehicles; it highlights a pivotal moment in their journey of localization and innovation. By focusing on European needs and preferences, GAC aims to redefine its brand identity and secure a lasting foothold in one of the most competitive automotive markets worldwide.

For additional information on GAC’s initiatives and offerings, visit GAC's official site or follow them on social media channels.