GAC NE’s Aion LX hits the market with range up to 650km

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- GAC New Energy Automobile Co.,Ltd (GAC NE), a wholly-owned NEV subsidiary of GAC Group, saw the Aion LX, its new flagship model in the Aion range, hit the market on October 17. Offered in five trim levels, the new BEV model is priced between RMB249,600 and RMB349,600.

Premiering at the Auto Shanghai 2019, the Aion LX is an all-electric SUV that is capable of Level 3 autonomous driving assistance, and harnesses solar power to create an energy-efficient internal cabin. It is the second model in GAC NE's Aion range, following the subsidiary’s initial inroad to the EV market with the Aion S, which went on sale on April 27, 2019.

With independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a multi-link rear, it delivers outstanding performance with decreased energy consumption, sprinting from 0 to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds.

Two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive systems will be offered to different trim levels. Both “60” and “70” variants carry a two-wheel-drive system and an electric motor that is good for 135kW. Besides, the two-wheel-drive “80” and the four-wheel-drive “80D” versions are fitted with electric motors pumping out 150kW and 300kW respectively.

The range is one of bright spots that should be highlighted. Notably, the two-wheel-drive “80” and four-wheel-drive “80D”versions, powered by CATL's NCM 811 battery cells, have NEDC-rated ranges of 650km and 600km respectively.

Positioned as a medium-size SUV, the Aion LX measures 4,786mm long, 1,935mm wide and 1,685mm tall with a wheelbase that spans 2,920mm, comparatively close to the NIO ES6 (4,850mm*1,965mm*1,758mm, 2,900-mm wheelbase). Other major rivals include the BYD Tang EV600 and the Roewe MARVEL X.

Externally, the Aion LX features GAC NE's iconic design language but is still very distinctive. Above the nameplate, the middle plate coupled with headlights resembles an arrow flying through a patch of cloud. In the lower part of the front face, the honeycomb-shaped air admission opening edged by black trims looks more aggressive than that of the Aion S.

The powerful and dynamic essence of the Aion LX's is highlighted by character lines that swoop from the front wheel arches to the taillights, coupled with the so-called “floating” roof.

The rear end looks sleeker and stockier than that of the front face. The taillight cluster stretching across the tailgate accentuates the SUV’s width.

With a very spiffy interior, the new vehicle is trying to offer users a top-notch driving experience through two 12.3-inch displays and leather-wrapped facilities. Moreover, the addition of GAC's ADiGO smart and connected in-car system would facilitate and entertain users when they are driving (Photo source: GAC NE).