On November 6, GAC formally launched the Aion RT, its latest pure electrical sedan aimed on the mainstream market. Constructed on the corporate’s superior AEP 3.0 pure electrical platform, the Aion RT combines fashionable design, strong efficiency, and cutting-edge expertise to cater to a variety of drivers. The car is offered in 5 trims, priced between 119,800 and 165,800 yuan (roughly 16,350–22,600 USD), equally priced as the favored Xpeng Mona M03 (see specs). In November, the Aion RT bought over 7,000 models in China.
Our take a look at automobile is the 650 LiDAR trim, powered by a 165 kW motor and a 68.1 kWh battery for a 650 km vary; it options 27 sensors, together with a 126-line LiDAR and an NVIDIA Orin-X chip, enabling L2++ driving help. Superior options embrace map-free navigation, reminiscence parking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alerts. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds, with power consumption at 11.9 kWh/100 km. It helps 3C quick charging expertise. Recharging the battery from 30% to 80% takes solely 18 minutes.
Exterior
The Aion RT embodies GAC’s “Velociraptor” design idea, highlighted by a glossy exterior and an ultra-low drag coefficient of 0.208 Cd. Its dimensions—4865 mm in size, 1875 mm in width, and 1520 mm in peak—present a well-proportioned physique, whereas the 2775 mm wheelbase ensures a spacious cabin.
Inside
The minimalist cabin emphasizes performance and luxury. The dashboard integrates a typical 14.6-inch central management display and an 8.8-inch digital instrument panel. Excessive-quality supplies and considerate design touches elevate the expertise. Practicality is a key focus, with the entrance seats able to reclining totally to attach with the rear, forming a “huge mattress.”
The Aion RT has heated and ventilated seats, normal throughout all trims, enhancing consolation throughout excessive climate. The cabin’s format contains air-conditioning vents, wi-fi charging pads, and ample space for storing.
Behind the Wheel
The GAC Aion RT gives a refined driving expertise, prioritizing consolation and smoothness over aggressive efficiency. In city settings, the sedan’s responsive throttle delivers ample energy for fast acceleration, whereas its linear energy supply ensures a stress-free experience in stop-and-go visitors. Exact steering simplifies maneuvering via tight metropolis streets, and the suspension successfully absorbs bumps, sustaining consolation on uneven roads. On the freeway, the Aion RT demonstrates spectacular stability, aided by its low 0.208 Cd drag coefficient and well-calibrated chassis, making certain confidence at larger speeds.
Noise isolation is superb, with minimal wind and street noise intrusion, whereas adaptive cruise management and lane-keeping help perform reliably, lowering fatigue throughout lengthy drives. The 165 kW motor within the 650 trim emphasizes clean energy supply fairly than outright pace. On winding roads, the Aion RT maintains composure with minimal physique roll and a planted really feel, though its muted steering suggestions highlights its comfort-focused design.
Throughout our take a look at, adaptive cruise and lane-keeping methods are reliable. Nevertheless, the LiDAR often faltered in tight parking eventualities, suggesting potential software program updates are required. The Aion RT is good for these looking for a cushty and balanced day by day commuter.
Verdict
The Aion RT competes with rivals just like the BYD Qin Plus (see specs), XPeng Mona M03, and even the Tesla Mannequin 3 in dimension. Whereas some rivals could present extra luxurious interiors or superior autonomous driving methods, the Aion RT’s emphasis on affordability and performance makes it a sexy choice for cost-conscious patrons.
With a spacious inside, strong driver-assistance options, and superior expertise, the GAC Aion RT is a well-rounded electrical sedan. Its concentrate on practicality and worth positions it as a powerful contender within the aggressive EV market, interesting to fashionable households and concrete commuters.
Keep tuned for subsequent week’s Sunday China Drive at Automobile Information China, the place you may learn extra first-person evaluations of Chinese language automobiles.
