Get ready for a shake-up in Australia’s automotive landscape—GAC, China’s latest automotive export, is setting its sights on becoming a top-ten seller in the country within just three years. Bold move? Absolutely. But here’s where it gets intriguing: with a late 2024 launch, GAC is starting modestly, aiming to sell only 1,000 vehicles in 2025. Yet, by 2028, they’re targeting a staggering 33,000 units annually. Can they pull it off? That’s the million-dollar question.
In a recent presentation to Drive, Cheney Liang, GAC’s Deputy Managing Director, laid out the ambitious plan. “Our goal is clear: start with 1,000 units this year, but by 2028, we aim to be among Australia’s top ten sellers,” Liang explained. But here’s the kicker: to crack the top ten, GAC might need to rethink its numbers—and fast. More on that later.
GAC’s initial Australian lineup will feature three models: the Emzoom, a compact petrol SUV; the Aion V, a mid-size electric SUV; and the M8 PHEV, a plug-in hybrid people mover. But don’t think they’re stopping there. Over the next two years, GAC plans to expand its range with up to five additional models. “Three models won’t cut it for our ambitions,” Liang admitted. “That’s why we’re already planning to diversify our offerings.”
And this is the part most people miss: GAC already has a strong presence in right-hand drive markets like Thailand, Singapore, and South Africa, with the UK set to join the list by 2026. This opens the door for models like the Emkoo, a petrol and hybrid mid-size SUV, and the Aion UT, a small electric hatchback. These could go head-to-head with popular rivals like the Hyundai Tucson, Toyota RAV4, and BYD Dolphin. But will Australian buyers bite?
Here’s the controversial bit: GAC’s 33,000-unit target might not be enough to secure a top-ten spot. In 2024, Australia’s tenth-best-selling brand, GWM, sold 42,782 units. Fast forward to October 2025, and even the tenth-ranked Isuzu had already sold 35,114 vehicles—with two months left in the year. To truly compete, GAC may need to aim closer to 45,000 units or more. That’s a massive leap, especially for a newcomer.
So, is GAC’s ambition realistic, or is it a stretch too far? Let’s not forget, Australia’s top-ten brands—Toyota, Ford, Mazda, and others—have decades of market dominance. GAC’s initial three-model lineup pales in comparison to most competitors, except for Isuzu. But with plans to expand rapidly, they’re clearly not here to play it safe.
What do you think? Can GAC crack Australia’s top ten by 2028, or are they setting themselves up for a fall? Will their electric and hybrid offerings resonate with Aussie buyers, or will they struggle to stand out in a crowded market? Let us know in the comments—this is one automotive story you won’t want to miss.
