GAC Aion's first foray into the Philippine market marks a further acceleration of the expansion of Chinese EV brands in Southeast Asia. As the fourth largest automotive market in ASEAN, the Philippines offers huge room for development for electric vehicle brands with its abundant population resources and fast-growing passenger car market. In the first half of 2024, the Philippine passenger car market reached a year-on-year growth of 17.8%, which not only proves the huge potential of the market, but also reflects the growing demand for vehicles from local consumers.
This time, GAC Aion chose to set up its first flagship showroom in Makati City, the core business district of Manila, the capital of the Philippines. Covering an area of 1,420 square meters, the showroom aims to provide local consumers with a "one-stop car purchase and after-sales experience", and is also equipped with four charging stations, including two fast charging stations, providing consumers with great convenience. Such a strategic layout not only enhances GAC Aion's brand image, but also demonstrates its long-term commitment to the Philippine market.
Figure: GAC Aion goes overseas to the Philippines: the first flagship showroom landed in Manila
The strong support of the Philippine government also provides a strong guarantee for GAC Aion's entry. According to the Philippine government's "National Electric Vehicle Development Roadmap", EV brands will enjoy a series of policy incentives, such as tax exemption, free parking, green lanes, and priority purchases, which will further promote the popularity of EVs in the Philippines. In addition, the Philippine Department of Energy is drafting new guidelines aimed at promoting the establishment of EV charging infrastructure at gas stations, laying the groundwork for the rollout of EVs. GAC Aion will be able to take advantage of this favorable policy to build and promote the charging network more smoothly in the future, providing strong support for the long-term development of the brand.
GAC Aion's localization strategy is also one of the key factors in its success. By cooperating with dealers in the three major cities of the Philippines, GAC Aion was able to quickly gain a firm foothold in the market. Close cooperation with local distributors not only helps brands better penetrate the market, but also serves consumers faster and more efficiently through local resources and sales networks. Anton Ibarle, General Manager of Aion Philippines, elaborated on GAC Aion's localization development strategy in the Philippines, and clearly expressed the brand's confidence and expectations for the future market. In addition, GAC Aion also showcased the latest Aion Y PLUS series and AION ES models to the guests, demonstrating its high emphasis on excellent products and customer experience.
It is worth mentioning that on the opening day of the exhibition hall, GAC Aion also held the delivery ceremony of the first batch of 10 car owners. This ceremony is not only an important milestone for GAC Aion in the Philippine market, but also builds a bridge of trust between the brand and consumers. Car owners highly appreciated GAC Aion's professional services and excellent product performance, and the good reputation will lay a solid foundation for the further promotion and development of the brand in the local area.
GAC Aion's Philippine market strategy demonstrates its all-round layout capabilities. From product quality to customer service, from partnerships to policy support, every detail shows its in-depth understanding of the market and long-term planning. With the gradual advancement of GAC Aion's business in the Philippines, it is expected to inject new vitality and development opportunities into the electric vehicle market throughout Southeast Asia in the future.
Looking ahead, GAC Aion will not only continue to increase its investment in the Philippines, but also explore more cooperation opportunities to further expand its market share in Southeast Asia. GAC Aion's success in the Philippines will undoubtedly provide valuable experience for other Chinese EV brands, and also provide new ideas and impetus for the sustainable development of the global EV industry.
All in all, GAC Aion's appearance in the Philippine market not only demonstrates its strength as a leading electric vehicle manufacturer in China, but also opens a new chapter for the popularization of electric vehicles in the Southeast Asian market. Under the multiple benefits of policy, market demand and product innovation, GAC Aion will play an increasingly important role in the electric vehicle market in the Philippines and even Southeast Asia.
