Shanghai (Gasgoo)- GAC NIO, a joint venture between Chinese automaker GAC Group and EV startup NIO, will unveil a fire-new concept code-named “Ar18” at the Auto Guangzhou 2020 kicking off on Nov. 20, according to a local media outlet.

Ar18 concept; photo credit: GAC NIO

The teaser photos exposed by the media outlet show that the Ar18 is a sedan that greatly inherits GAC NIO's signature design language. The closed-off grille coupled with slender headlights accentuates the car's width, radiating minimalist aesthetics. The “7”-shaped LED daytime running lights can also be seen at the HYCAN 007, the company's first mass-produced model.

Ar18 concept; photo credit: GAC NIO

At the rear, the ducktail spoiler is designed to generate downforce as air passes around it. The “7”-styled taillights are in tune with that of the front.

The powertrain solution is yet to be announced. We have already known that the HYCAN 007 is powered by a CATL’s 93kWh ternary lithium battery pack that enables a range of up to 643km under the NEDC test cycle.

Founded in April 2018, GAC NIO involves a registered capital of 500 million yuan ($75,933,600), which are together invested by such companies as GAC Group, GAC NE and Shanghai NIO Automobile Co.,Ltd. It is principally engaged in the R&D and sale of all-electric vehicles, and other supporting services like EV charging, the installation and management of charging piles, as well as EV rental service.

Located in Nansha District, Guangzhou, GAC NIO's R&D hub contains ten departments focusing on complete vehicle assembly, styling, car body, exterior & interior manufacturing engineering and intelligent connectivity, etc. GAC NE serves as its contract manufacturer.

GAC NIO launched the BEV-focused brand “HYCAN” in May 2019, with the concept of the HYCAN 007 unveiled at the same time. The mass-produced version hit the market in April 2020, with guiding prices ranging from 259,800 yuan ($39,455) and 400,000 yuan ($60,747).

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