WTCA, a subsidiary of Warisan TC Holdings Bhd and the exclusive distributor of GAC AION electric vehicles (EVs) in Malaysia, has officially introduced the 2024 GAC AION Y Plus all-electric crossover model to the Malaysian market. The unveiling took place during the Press Day of the Malaysia Autoshow 2024, organised by the Malaysia Automotive Robotics & loT Institute (MARii) at MAEPS, Serdang.
Available in ‘Elite’ and ‘Premium’ variants, the GAC AION Y Plus marks WTCA’s debut in the EV segment with accessible price tags of RM119,800.00 (Elite) and RM135,800.00 (Premium). Malaysian consumers can choose from seven vibrant exterior colour options and five interior colour choices, providing a total of 35 combinations to suit individual preferences.
Both the Elite and Premium variants share the same front-mounted e-motor rated at 204PS and 225NM that drive the front wheels. This setup grants the GAC AION Y Plus with respectably zippy performance as demonstrated by its 0-100km/h acceleration time of 8.5 seconds. Crucially, the e-motor is also endowed with versatility thanks to the offer of up to four selectable driving modes, including an ‘i-Pedal’ single-pedal driving mode.
For its exterior design, the GAC AION Y Plus merges both trendy SUV elements with a dash of high-tech intelligence. Key design touches include Angel Wing LED headlights, Skyline through-type LED taillights, powered stow-away door handles, a panoramic sunroof present across both variants, as well as 17-inch (Elite) and 18-inch (Premium) alloy wheels design.
Underpinning the AEP 2.0 dedicated EV platform, said construct also houses GAC’s innovative 63.2 kWh Magazine Battery 2.0. With each full charge, this lithium iron phosphate (LFP) type battery is capable at delivering up to 490km (NEDC) of driving range. As for charging, the both 6.6 KW AC (Type 2) and up to 80 kW DC fast-charging (CCS2) inputs are accepted.
The GAC AION Y Plus presents a spacious cabin packed with premium amenities and features tailored to diverse urban lifestyles. Its six-way power-adjustable driver seat ensures comfort, while the 10.25-inch digital instrumentation offers essential vehicle information at a glance. Keyless entry adds convenience, complemented by automatic climate control with dedicated rear vents and a built-in PM2.5 air filter for a pleasant interior environment.
Entertainment and connectivity are handled by a 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, boasting Apple CarPlay functionality. The Premium variant elevates the experience with driver seat ventilation, a power-adjustable front passenger seat, and a wireless smartphone charging pad. Ambient lighting with music mode enhances the cabin’s ambiance, while split-folding rear seats expand cargo space up to 1,200 litres.
Safety features include six airbags, ABS, VDC, HHC, 360-degree View Monitor, and TPMS, standard across both variants. The Premium variant further enhances safety with Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities, including ACC with Stop & Go function, FCW, AEB, LDW with LKA, and TJA.
The firm spent the last four months establishing its network of 21 new showrooms and service centres nationwide, and more are set to become operational within this year.
