GAC Aion stepping up recruitment efforts in anticipation for global market expansion in China

In an ambitious move to extend its reach, Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer GAC Aion is set to establish production bases in Thailand, Indonesia, Brazil, and various other locations in the second half of 2023.

The company is preparing to complete its extended-range and plug-in hybrid vehicle lineups, with plans to launch these starting from 2025. In the meantime, GAC Aion is gearing up to release three new cars in the second half of this year.

These strategic moves are part of GAC Aion's broader goal to explore the European market and tap into opportunities in South America, the Middle East, Central Asia, and Africa. The company's new cars will fill market gaps and include products priced between RMB 100,000-200,000 (USD 13,770-27,540) and those above RMB 300,000 (USD 41,310).

Direct exports are considered the best option due to higher Chinese labor productivity. Initially, GAC Aion will send personnel from China to overseas locations for factory operations, with plans to transition to a model where local talent takes the lead within two years. However, cultural differences necessitate increased training efforts for overseas employees.

GAC Aion's recruitment strategy prioritizes local manpower for branding, sales, service, corporate management, and human resources roles. Product- and production-related talents will mainly come from China. The company aims to build factories with capacities of 20,000 or 30,000 units instead of immediately building larger ones with capacities of 100,000 or 200,000 units.

The export model for overseas operations includes building bases and direct exports. GAC Aion considers three issues when deciding on overseas factory locations: tariffs, construction scale, and the industrial chain. Tariff barriers and import licenses in some countries may limit the number of vehicles that can be imported, affecting scale.

GAC Aion's factories in Thailand, Indonesia, and Changsha are already in the process of hiring, with operations set to commence this year. The company also plans to establish 100 self-operated stores, with 2,000 new positions to be added in the second half of 2024.

Contrary to recent rumours, GAC Aion has denied reports about 20% layoffs and mass cancellations of agreements with fresh graduates. The company remains committed to its growth strategy and expanding its global footprint.

One new car will be released every two months, ensuring a steady stream of innovative and high-quality electric vehicles for consumers around the world. With its strategic expansion and product launches, GAC Aion is poised to make a significant impact in the global electric vehicle market.