Chinese automaker GAC Motor confirmed that it is launching three new vehicles in South Africa in the near future.
Before the end of 2024, the firm said it will bring the Emkoo and Emzoom SUVs to local roads; with the all-electric Aion Y to follow “soon after,” said the company, suggesting a 2025 introduction date.
The rollout of these vehicles will be accompanied by a “strategic [dealer] network expansion” across the country and the automaker is currently fielding inquiries from interested parties regarding “potential franchise opportunities,” it said.
GAC first announced in January this year that it would enter South Africa in partnership with the Salvador Caetano Group, becoming the latest in a flurry of Chinese brands to sink their fangs into the local market.
“I believe that the South African market represents a compelling opportunity for GAC Motor with its dynamic automotive landscape, coupled with a growing demand for innovation,” said Leslie Ramsoomar, Managing director of Salvador Caetano South Africa.
“Positioned strategically as a gateway to the broader African continent, this market holds immense potential for us to establish a strong presence, drive revenue growth, and solidify our position as a key player in the region.”
GAC Emzoom
Emzoom
The Emzoom is positioned as GAC’s entry-level crossover, and dependent on the market, it is available in three derivatives all driven by the same powertrain.
The entire range is equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine generating 130kW and 270Nm partnered with a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission, with fuel consumption pegged at 5.9l/100km.
As has become customary with the majority of modern Chinese vehicles, the Emzoom also features an abundance of features and technologies to attract buyers.
Depending on the model, buyers can expect all-round LED lighting, stylish 18-inch alloy wheels, a 10.25-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7-inch digital driver’s cockpit, leather upholstery, electric seats, 360-degree cameras, cruise control, rear parking sensors, and hill-start assist.
The Emzoom comes in at 4,410mm long, 1,850mm wide, and 1,600mm tall – roughly the same dimensions as the highly popular Toyota Corolla Cross.
Emkoo
One step up from its crossover sibling, the Emkoo represents GAC’s entry into the competitive mid-size SUV category.
Buyers have a choice between two powertrain options in the Emkoo line-up.
The first comprises a 1.5-litre, turbo-petrol engine generating 177kW and 270Nm, working in conjunction with a seven-speed automatic gearbox, with the setup reporting a fuel usage of 6.2l/100km.
There is also a hybrid entry that marries a 2.0-litre petrol mill with 138kW and 180Nm to an electric motor that pushes out 134kW and 300Nm.
A “dedicated hybrid transmission” is used to channel power to the front wheels, with combined fuel usage rated at a lowly 4.8l/100km.
Standard nice-to-haves in the Emkoo family include a front grille with a rhythmic lighting effect, automatic LED lights, keyless entry and start, ventilated front seats, a 10.1-inch touchscreen with smartphone mirroring, and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster.
The Emkoo occupies a footprint of 4,680mm in length, 1,901mm in width, and 1,670mm in height – similar to something like the BMW X3.
Aion Y
GAC’s only electric vehicle (EV) at present is the Aion Y, which is only coming to South African roads after the Emkoo and Emzoom.
The Aion Y boasts 100kW and 225Nm of output, and courtesy of its 63.2kWh battery pack it affords 490km of driving range when calculated with the optimistic NEDC standard.
Like its siblings, the GAC EV brings a generous assortment of amenities such as keyless entry and start, a 14.6-inch infotainment hub, a 10.25-inch driver’s display, climate control with rear-seat vents, a microfibre leather steering wheel, PVC leather-trimmed seats, an electric driver’s chair, a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, cruise control, and a 360-view camera system.
At 4,535mm long, 1,870mm wide, and 1,650mm tall – the Aion Y is nearly equal in size to the VW Tiguan.
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