A new Chinese car brand has confirmed that its UK launch continues to gain steam with the opening of its retail partners today.
Aion has announced that its retail partners will be opening across the UK from June 1, with its flagship model, the Aion V electric car, available immediately.
Jon Wakefield, managing director of Aion Auto UK, welcomed joint venture partners GAC International and Jameel Motors to the brand's headquarters outside of London.
Aion welcomed the likes of Jack Chen, Vice President of GAC Group and Chairman of GAC International, and Jasmmine Wong, CEO of Jameel Motors.
The Guangzhou-based manufacturer aims to expand its network of retailers across the UK over the coming months and years.
Aion's flagship V electric car will retail from £36,450, with flexible PCP offers between 18 and 48 months available from £379 a month.
The Aion V boasts an impressive 317-mile battery range and rapid charging speeds from 30 to 80 per cent in just 18 minutes.
A "super-efficient" heat pump installed inside the vehicle also keeps the battery at an optimal operating temperature.
Aion said it was targeting 'long-term sustainable growth' in the UK market
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Aion confirmed that it had optimised the driving experience for UK drivers, in addition to special calibration and suspension for British roads.
Commenting on the launch, Mr Wakefield said: "After many months of hard work behind the scenes, this event was a true celebration of everything our collaboration has achieved so far, marking our bold first steps as we set the new standard for car ownership in the UK.
"GAC's incredible engineering and production expertise provides us with world-class AION cars, and Jameel supports us with extensive experience of launching brands in new markets.
"Backed by these two powerhouses, Aion is all set for a successful launch and long-term sustainable growth in the UK market."
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Aion has officially launched in the UK with a glitzy event at its HQ on the outskirts of London
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The Aion V is also backed by the "Great Eight" scheme, which provides eight years of support across the vehicle's warranty, servicing, roadside assistance and MOT.
It has partnered with the AA to give customers access to accredited workshops and over 100 "Mobile Mechanics" for servicing, maintenance and repair.
Aion has also collaborated with shipping giant DHL to ensure that nationwide next-day deliveries are possible from its Bury St Edmunds parts hub.
Order books for the Aion V are now open, while the brand plans to introduce a line-up of eight electrified vehicles by the end of the decade.
Aion aims to release eight electrified vehicles in the UK by the end of the decade
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Aion is the electrified brand within the GAC Group and has sold more than 300,000 cars in China alone last year, despite only launching in 2017.
The manufacturer will act as a key asset for GAC as it targets one million overseas sales by 2030 through its internationalisation strategy.
Aion will be the latest Chinese brand to join the UK market following the successful launch of the likes of BYD, Chery, Omoda, Jaecoo and others in recent years.
In addition to Aion, Chery International will be launching its fourth auto brand in the UK later this year, with Lepas set to launch its flagship Lepas L8.