WTC Automotif (WTCA) has just confirmed that the GAC Aion Y Plus electric SUV will be officially launched in our market at the upcoming Malaysia Autoshow which is taking place from 22 to 26 May in MAEPS Serdang. The exclusive Malaysian distributor of the GAC Aion has previously promised that the EV will be released in Malaysia within the first half of 2024.
GAC Aion Y Plus Malaysia specs
The Y Plus was first previewed by WTCA and GAC Aion to the Malaysian media earlier this year. However, they did not reveal the variants that will be released into our market as well as their pricing.
They did say that the Y Plus that is coming to Malaysia will feature a 63.2kWh battery and 150kW (201hp) electric motor while capable of delivering a WLTP-rated range of 430km. Hence, we expected that the Malaysian unit would be identical to the 490 Elite or 490 Premium that are currently on sale in Thailand.
If our guess is correct, then the Malaysian variant should be capable of producing 225NM of maximum torque and can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 8.5 seconds. In addition to that, it should also feature a 7kW onboard AC charger with DC charging support of up to 80kW and Vehicle-To-Load (V2L) capability of up to 3.3kW.
GAC Aion Y Plus Malaysia expected price
Over in Thailand, the Y Plus 490 Elite is currently available for THB899,900 (~RM116,680) while the 490 Premium costs slightly higher at THB995,900 (~RM129,167). Hence, we expect the Y Plus will be released in Malaysia for under RM160,000.
If that is the case, then the new electric SUV will be facing tough competition from BYD Atto 3, Chery Omoda E5 and MG ZS EV. Not only that, the upcoming Neta X could also be a potential rival to the GAC Aion’s offering.
Do stay tuned for more details next week from the official launch event but for now, do check out our first take at the GAC Aion Y Plus right here.
