GAC Aion has submitted filings to China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) for the GAC Aion RT battery-swap model, introducing a swappable battery option for its Aion RT electric sedan. This new variant keeps the 150 kW (201 hp) motor and core specifications of the non-swappable version, while providing a more flexible and convenient charging solution for EV owners.
The announcement aligns with CATL’s “Chocolate” battery-swapping initiative, which partners with multiple automakers to deliver ten battery-swappable models. The Aion RT and Chery’s iCar V23 are among the first vehicles to receive battery-swap variant approvals.
CATL’s Chocolate platform standardizes battery-swapping technology, making charging faster and more convenient for EV users across China.
GAC Aion RT Battery-Swap Model Specifications
The GAC Aion RT battery-swap model mirrors the standard Aion RT in performance and design:
Aerodynamic “velociraptor” body with a drag coefficient of 0.208Cd
Dimensions: 4,865mm length, 1,875mm width, 1,520mm height, 2,775mm wheelbase
Battery options: 55.1kWh or 68.1kWh CATL lithium iron phosphate
Range: 520km or 650km
Energy consumption: 11.7kWh/100km or 11.9kWh/100km
Fast-charging technology: 400V silicon carbide
Autonomous driving system: 126-line LiDAR with Nvidia Orin-X chip
The swappable battery model could reduce the entry price by approximately 7,000 USD with a battery subscription plan, making EV ownership more affordable.
CATL’s Choco-SEB battery swap stations have almost reached their 1,000-unit target for this year. All stations are scheduled to be fully operational before the Spring Festival, covering about two-thirds of Chinese cities. Users can now locate a swap station within 10 kilometres on average.
By 2030, CATL plans to expand the network to 10,000–20,000 stations, with a long-term goal of 30,000. This growth aims to make battery swapping as convenient as traditional refuelling. Current compatible models—including Changan Oshan vehicles, the Aion UT Super, and the newly approved Aion RT and iCar V23—are all priced under 14,000 USD. The GAC Aion RT battery-swap model provides a cost-effective alternative to Nio’s Firefly, which also supports battery swapping.
The launch of the GAC Aion RT battery-swap model strengthens China’s EV infrastructure and improves charging convenience, offering a practical solution for long-distance travel and daily EV use.
