GAC Aion, the new energy vehicle brand of GAC Group that became independent last year, announced Thursday that it will expand its plant capacity to 200,000 units per year, up from 100,000 units per year.

GAC Aion expects to invest about RMB 500 million in the initiative, which is scheduled to double its capacity by early 2022.

The company will enhance intelligent manufacturing and strengthen its mixed-line production capacity through the application of new technologies, processes, and materials.

GAC announced at last year's Guangzhou International Auto Show that the GAC Aion brand would be separated to make premium smart electric vehicles. The brand sold 60,033 units in 2020, up 43% year-on-year.

GAC Aion's plant, which opens in April 2019, offers advantages including flexible production of steel and aluminum bodies, digital autonomous decision-making, interactive customization, and integrated energy use, according to the company.

GAC Aion launches its own battery technology, becoming another carmaker after BYD to do so