Grab and GAC partner up to bring electric ride hailing to Southeast Asia in a big way.
Ride-hailing giant Grab and Chinese automaker GAC (Guangzhou Automobile Group) have signed a landmark strategic agreement to deploy an initial fleet of 20,000 high-performance electric vehicles (EVs) across Southeast Asia.
Signed on January 8, 2026, in Guangzhou, China, the partnership marks a significant acceleration in the region’s transition to sustainable mobility. The initiative will see GAC’s “Aion” series of electric vehicles roll out across six key markets: Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand.
The Fleet: Aion Y, ES, and V
To kickstart the collaboration, GAC will introduce three of its star models to the Grab fleet, selected specifically for their suitability in ride-hailing environments:
- Aion Y: A best-seller known for its spacious, practical interior and stylish design, making it ideal for premium transfers.
- Aion ES: A sedan favoured for its efficiency and ergonomic configuration, already gaining traction as a trusted electric taxi option.
- Aion V: A pure electric SUV with a Euro NCAP five-star safety rating, combining long-range capabilities with a roomy cabin.
These vehicles feature design elements tailored for professional drivers, such as 90-degree door openings and ample rear legroom, ensuring maximum comfort for passengers.
Tech Integration: No More Phone Toggling
A game-changing aspect of this partnership is the deep technological integration between the two companies. Under GAC’s “Tech-Driven GAC” strategy, the Grab driver app will be directly integrated into the vehicle’s intelligent cockpit system.
This means Grab driver-partners will no longer need to rely solely on their smartphones for navigation and job acceptance. Instead, critical information—such as heatmaps for high-demand areas, safety alerts, and navigation—will be displayed on the car’s larger, built-in dashboard screen.
Ownership and Financing
To make the switch to electric easier, Grab driver-partners will have flexible access options. They can choose to rent the EVs from Grab’s fleet partners or purchase them through Grab’s car ownership schemes, which offer financing support.
A Greener Future
The move aligns with Grab’s ambitious goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040. With the Southeast Asian EV market growing rapidly—sales rose by nearly 50% in 2024 according to the IEA—this partnership positions Grab as a primary facilitator of the region’s green transition.
For GAC, the deal provides immediate, massive exposure to millions of daily users across Southeast Asia, accelerating its global expansion and brand recognition in the right-hand drive market.
