Grab and GAC have announced a major strategic partnership to deploy electric vehicles (EVs) as part of the former’s e-hailing fleet across Southeast Asia. This collaboration aims to move beyond simple fleet expansion by integrating both companies’ systems to enhance the overall experience for driver-partners and streamline after-sales support.
The rollout will initially involve some 20,000 vehicles spread across three GAC’s models. These are the GAC Aion Y, Aion ES, and Aion V, and will be deployed to markets in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand.
In a press release, Grab says that these vehicles are specifically suited for professional ride-hailing demands, courtesy of their 90-degree door openings for easier entry and exit, along with ample rear legroom for improved passenger comfort.
A key highlight of this partnership is the integration of the Grab driver app directly into GAC’s intelligent cockpit system. Instead of toggling between smartphones and dashboard screens, driver-partners can now view navigation, high-demand “heat maps,” and safety alerts directly on the cars’ large integrated display.
Grab Chief Product Officer, Philipp Kandal, said, “At Grab, we are constantly seeking innovations that empower our driver-partners. By integrating the Grab driver app directly into the GAC cockpit display, our driver-partners can receive timely and important data, such as precise navigation and safety alerts, in a more ergonomic way.”
“This ensures a more seamless and intuitive experience that reduces our driver-partners’ cognitive load, while advancing our shared commitment to carbon neutrality and a sustainable future,” Kandal added.
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To facilitate the transition to green mobility, Grab is offering its drivers-partners flexible pathways to vehicle access, either through rental from the company’s existing fleet partners, or taking advantage of specialised financing through Grab’s car ownership schemes.
In Malaysia, the stretched version of the Aion Y, the GAC Aion Y Plus, is currently available in two variants: the Elite priced at RM119,800 and the Premium at RM135,800, according to the price list available on the company’s website.
Powering the GAC Aion Y Plus in Malaysia is a front-mounted single electric motor setup that makes 204 hp and 225 Nm. This is juiced by a 63.2 kWh battery, which enables 490 km (NEDC) of range. Charging is supported by 6.6 kW AC and 80 kW DC charging.
While the GAC Aion ES was previously launched at KLIMS 2024 with a price tag of RM106,800, its absence from the official GAC Malaysia website suggests the model may have been discontinued for the local market.
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