GAC Aion’s N60 battery swap variant has surfaced in Chinese regulatory filings, confirming a swappable battery option for this 4615mm-long compact electric SUV. This development positions the N60 to leverage China’s expanding battery swap infrastructure, potentially reducing charging downtime to under 100 seconds like recent Aion models. EV buyers targeting affordable urban mobility should note this, as it combines the N60’s 410 km CLTC range with swap compatibility, addressing range anxiety in high-density markets.
Background: GAC Aion’s Rise in the EV Market
GAC Aion, a subsidiary of Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC), has established itself as a key player in China’s electric vehicle sector since its founding in 2017. The brand focuses on intelligent EVs with advanced battery tech, including its proprietary Inpey batteries and now integration with swappable systems from partners like CATL. In 2025, Aion expanded its portfolio with models like the UT Super, the first passenger car using CATL’s Choco-SEB swapping tech, achieving 99-second swaps and 500 km range on a 54 kWh pack.
The N60 fits Aion’s strategy of sub-RMB 100,000 ($14,000) EVs for mass adoption. Standard N60 specs include a 47.8 kWh LFP battery, 148 hp front motor, and pricing from $25,500 USD. The battery swap version, revealed February 9, 2026, in filings, measures 4615mm long, 1860mm wide, with a 2775mm wheelbase for five passengers. It supports motor options of 100 kW (134 hp) or 165 kW (224 hp), powered by Inpey batteries, plus features like zero-gravity seats and optional LiDAR.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 4615 x 1860/1883 x 1673 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2775 mm |
| Battery Capacity (Standard) | 47.8 kWh LFP |
| Range (CLTC) | 410 km (255 miles) |
| Power Output | 148 hp (110 kW) standard; 100/165 kW options |
| Drive Type | FWD |
| 0-100 km/h | 8.9 seconds |
| Top Speed | 160 km/h |
| DC Charging (30-80%) | 25 minutes |
| AC Charging (0-100%) | 7.5 hours |
| Starting Price | $25,500 USD |
| Key Features | 14.6-inch touchscreen, LED lights, optional LiDAR, zero-gravity seats |
Note: Battery swap specifics for N60, such as exact swap time or pack size, remain unconfirmed in filings.
Performance and Powertrain Analysis
The N60’s single front motor delivers 148 hp and 210 Nm torque in base form, with acceleration to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds and a 160 km/h top speed. Drive modes include Eco, Comfort, and Sport. The 47.8 kWh LFP battery prioritizes safety and longevity via Magazine Battery 2.0 thermal management. Real-world range estimates 310-330 km, suitable for urban commutes.
Battery swap integration draws from Aion’s UT Super experience, which uses CATL’s #25 Choco-SEB pack (54 kWh LFP, 500 km range, 99-second swap). N60’s swap version likely adopts a similar semi-automated process, where drivers position the vehicle manually—real-world tests hit 87 seconds. This could outpace its 25-minute DC charge (30-80%), vital as China’s CATL stations near 1000 by late 2025.
Battery Swap Implications for Urban EVs
China’s swap ecosystem, led by CATL and NIO, targets taxis and now passenger cars. Aion’s UT Super starts at RMB 45,400 ($6,370) with battery rental, undercutting ownership costs. For N60, swaps could enable standardized packs like CATL’s #20 (42 kWh LFP, 400 km) or #25, easing degradation worries. GAC Huawei Cloud Car with 160 TOPS computing adds intelligent driving, standard LiDAR across trims, and enhances safety.
Unanswered: Will N60 use CATL Choco-SEB or GAC’s own? Swap station access for private owners? Pricing impact—standard N60 eyes RMB 100,000 threshold.
Comparison with Competitors
| Model | Price (USD) | Range (CLTC km) | Battery (kWh) | Swap Support | Power (hp) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GAC Aion N60 | $25,500 | 410 | 47.8 LFP | Yes (version) | 148 |
| Aion UT Super | $12,630 (incl. batt.) | 500 | 54 LFP | Yes, 99s | 134 |
| BYD Atto 3 (est.) | $25,000 | 420 | 60.48 LFP | No | 201 |
| Wuling Bingo | $15,000 | 333 | 31.9 | No | 134 |
N60 swap edges out BYD Atto 3 on replenishment speed; UT Super is cheaper but smaller. Wuling lags in range.
Verdict
The GAC Aion N60 battery swap version strengthens Aion’s affordable EV lineup, ideal for urban Chinese families needing quick energy top-ups amid growing swap networks. At 4615mm with family-friendly space and 410 km range, it suits daily drivers prioritizing cost and convenience over top speed. Wait for launch details on swap pricing and infrastructure before committing—strong buy if under $25,000 with rental plans.
