GAC AION V ARRIVES: A NEW CHAPTER IN LUXURY ELECTRIC CARS

The model, available in more than 20 markets worldwide, combines progressive design with advanced EV engineering, offering a long-range, fast-charging alternative that redefines what Australian drivers can expect from electric mobility.

BUILT ON INNOVATION

Selling more than two million vehicles in China last year, GAC has emerged as a leader in new-energy mobility, drawing on decades of research and development and collaborations with Toyota and Honda.

Underpinning the AION V is GAC’s proprietary 400 V electric architecture, a densely packed 75.26 kWh battery, and extensive use of lightweight aluminium. The result: a 510 km WLTP range and fast charging from 30 to 80 per cent in just 16 minutes.

Its 150 kW motor produces 210 Nm of torque, while a heat-pump air-conditioning system improves overall power efficiency — hallmarks of the brand’s real-world engineering approach.

SAFETY FIRST

At the heart of the AION V’s safety credentials is the Magazine Battery 2.0, GAC’s patented technology designed for exceptional durability and fire resistance even under extreme conditions.

The SUV also meets i-Size, the latest international standard for child seat compatibility — reinforcing its credentials as a smart and secure family choice.

DESIGN WITHOUT BORDERS

Developed through GAC’s global design network, with studios in Milan, Los Angeles, Shanghai and Guangzhou, the AION V reflects the brand’s internationally influenced aesthetic.

Muscular proportions, a bold waistline and distinctive “dragon claw” lighting give it a confident, athletic stance, while inside, the cabin offers a calming, minimalist environment anchored by a 14.6-inch central display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Soft-touch materials, a panoramic glass roof with electric sunscreen, and 4 mm acoustic glass deliver a serene, premium ambience.

REFINED PRACTICALITY

Space is generous, with class-leading rear legroom of up to 1.1 metres and the ability to recline the front seats into a queen-bed configuration. A smart-sensor tailgate and 978-litre cargo capacity (rear seats folded) ensure practicality keeps pace with luxury.

The Luxury trim adds standout features, notably a 6.6-litre refrigerator hidden in the central armrest that cools to –15 °C or warms to 50 °C, and eight-point massage seats for driver and passenger.

READY FOR AUSTRALIA

Cheney Liang, Deputy General Manager of GAC Australia, said: “We’ve already delivered the AION V in over 20 countries worldwide, and we’re delighted that Australians can now experience this exceptional, feature-rich SUV for themselves.

“Whether choosing the Premium or Luxury model, every AION V represents the very best of modern electric powertrain technology, combining this with the safety, comfort and everyday practicality that truly make a difference in Australian life.”

NSW schools, gyms, 000 services and the public are being called on to lace up for Steps for the Love of Living, a four-day, 200km walk from Newcastle to Penrith held in honour of World Suicide Prevention Day.

The walk will draw star power as well as solidarity: legendary MMA fighter and former WIBA and WBF world champion boxer Arlene Blencowe, known as “The Aussie Girl ‘Angerfist'” and a respected youth mentor, will join the walk’s final leg from Parramatta to Penrith.

She’ll be joined by five-time Olympian and diving icon Melissa Wu, Ambassador for the Step Into Action Foundation.

The walk runs from September 10 to 13, beginning on World Suicide Prevention Day itself, and starts at Newcastle’s McDonald Jones Stadium before finishing at Penrith Showground.

It’s a joint initiative between The Australian Man Cave Support Group Inc and the Step Into Action Foundation, two organisations working on the frontline of suicide prevention in NSW.

The Australian Man Cave provides a safe, non-judgmental space for men to speak openly, with a focus on reducing the rate of male suicide, while Step Into Action concentrates on youth suicide prevention through resilience-building and early-intervention programs.

This year’s event also features a friendly inter-service challenge between NSW Police, NSW Ambulance, Fire & Rescue NSW, SES, Surf Life Saving NSW and the Rural Fire Service, who’ll compete to walk the furthest and raise the most for suicide-prevention initiatives.

“This walk is about hope, connection, and standing together,” said Lou Greco, President and Co-Founder of The Australian Man Cave Support Group Inc. “Every step taken is a step toward saving a life.”

Leading the charge is Chris Barton, Founder of the Step Into Action Foundation and a long-distance walking adventurer, who is taking on the full 200km route.

He’ll be joined for part of the way by the “Bakery Brothers”, Tyson Pedro and Rama Pattison, who are trading in punches and pastries for kilometres, walking the full distance alongside Chris.

How to get involved

The event is open to everyone, not just those able to walk the full distance. Participants can:

Walk the full 200km from Newcastle to Penrith
Join for a single day or section of the route
Take part virtually from anywhere in Australia — at school, the gym, work or in the local community, logging kilometres through walking, running, rowing, cycling or treadmill sessions

000 services can enter as teams for the inter-service challenge, and schools and gyms are encouraged to form their own teams to complete the distance collectively.

Funds raised will go towards mental health first aid training, crisis response support, community outreach programs, support services for at-risk men and families, and youth suicide awareness and prevention programs.

Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death among Australian men and young people. Both organisations say the walk is about ensuring no one feels alone in their struggle.

To register or find out more, visit stepsforloveofliving.com.au.

This is a sensitive topic. If this raises any issues for you, Lifeline is available on 13 11 14.