GAC Aion has launched its all-new Ray series, debuting with the Ray 7—a model designed to compete directly with the Xiaomi SU7 and other high-profile electric sedans. The Ray 7 introduces GAC Aion’s refreshed brand identity and incorporates advanced technologies from Huawei and CATL. This new entry aims to strengthen GAC Aion’s position in China’s competitive EV market, where the company is seeking to reverse recent sales declines.
Design and Features
The Ray 7 is the first model to showcase GAC Aion’s updated logo and new design language. Its exterior features a star-ring through-type light cluster, an enclosed front grille, and a trapezoidal intake with glossy black trim. The fastback silhouette is complemented by semi-hidden door handles, double five-spoke wheels, and distinctive yellow brake callipers. Buyers can choose between ‘Lightning Yellow’ and ‘Midsummer Purple’ colour options.
At the rear, the Ray 7 maintains design symmetry with a through-type taillight assembly centred around the Aion brand identity. According to MIIT filings, the vehicle measures 4,960 mm (~195 inches) in length, 1,900 mm (~75 inches) in width, and 1,455 mm (~57 inches) in height, with a wheelbase of 2,920 mm (~115 inches).
Chassis, Braking, and Powertrain
Built on a pure electric rear-wheel-drive platform, the Ray 7 incorporates chassis tuning expertise from Alfa Romeo. It features a hybrid aluminium front double-wishbone and rear five-link suspension, FSD adaptive damping shock absorbers, and front/rear stabiliser bars. The vehicle uses a chip-level drive-control fusion architecture and is equipped with Huawei’s DriveOne EMB (Electro-Mechanical Brake) system, achieving a stopping distance of 33 m from 100 km/h.
The Ray 7 is powered by a single Huawei-supplied motor delivering 180 kW (241 hp) and uses an LFP battery from CATL. This setup provides a CLTC pure electric range of 700 km (~435 miles). The Huawei iTRACK intelligent torque control system helps maintain stability on slippery surfaces.
Intelligent Driving and Technology
The Ray 7 is equipped with 27 automotive-grade panoramic sensors, including a 192-line LiDAR and three 4D millimetre-wave radars. Leveraging a large-scale model derived from WeRide’s L4-level Robotaxi technology, the vehicle can navigate complex urban environments, handle single-lane U-turns, lane-borrowing, and support advanced ‘parking spot to parking spot’ navigation and high-difficulty parking scenarios.
Competitor Comparison
The GAC Aion Ray 7 enters a segment dominated by models such as the Xiaomi SU7, Zeekr 007, and Shangjie Z7. Each of these competitors offers advanced technology and strong performance, making the Ray 7’s combination of Huawei eDrive, EMB braking, and L4-level autonomous features a key differentiator. Pricing and detailed specs for the Ray 7 are expected to align closely with these rivals, all of which target tech-savvy buyers in China’s rapidly evolving EV market.
Regional Availability
The Ray 7 is launching first in China, where GAC Aion maintains a strong presence. There is no official confirmation yet regarding exports or availability in other markets.
Why this matters
The introduction of the Ray 7 marks a strategic move by GAC Aion to regain momentum in a highly competitive market, especially after a year of declining sales. By integrating Huawei’s advanced eDrive and EMB technologies, as well as L4-level autonomous driving capabilities, GAC Aion is positioning the Ray 7 as a technologically advanced alternative to established rivals.
This launch also reflects the broader trend of Chinese automakers leveraging domestic technology partnerships to enhance vehicle performance and intelligence, aiming to attract both private buyers and fleet operators.
What this means for buyers
Buyers considering the Ray 7 can expect a blend of advanced safety, intelligent driving features, and a long electric range. Those comparing options in the mid-to-large electric sedan segment should closely evaluate the Ray 7 against the Xiaomi SU7, Zeekr 007, and Shangjie Z7, especially in terms of technology integration and real-world usability.
With the Ray 7 initially available in China, prospective buyers outside the region should monitor announcements for potential export plans or regional launches.
Key Specs
- Length: 4,960 mm (~195 inches)
- Width: 1,900 mm (~75 inches)
- Height: 1,455 mm (~57 inches)
- Wheelbase: 2,920 mm (~115 inches)
- Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive
- Motor Output: 180 kW (241 hp)
- Battery Type: LFP (CATL)
- CLTC Range: 700 km (~435 miles)
Source
Images sourced from: cnevpost.com, carnewschina.com
