GAC Aion has long promoted itself with the slogan "Aion vehicles that never break down." However, recent reports are challenging this claim. Owners of several models, including the Aion V Plus and Aion S魅580, have reported severe battery degradation and even battery pack swelling and leakage after approximately three years of use, rendering their vehicles inoperable. Many suspect quality issues with the lithium iron phosphate batteries supplied by CALB.
In response, GAC Aion's customer service stated that warranty policies vary by model and that the company will investigate potential power battery defects internally. CALB did not respond to inquiries prior to publication.
GAC Aion has earned the nickname "King of Ride-Hailing" due to its strong presence in that market. However, as the ride-hailing sector becomes saturated, the brand's heavy reliance on business-to-business sales has led to significant sales declines in both 2024 and 2025. The recent battery issues may further impact its reputation among both commercial and individual customers.
One owner, who purchased an Aion S Plus in 2023, reported that his vehicle malfunctioned after charging in March, displaying a "system failure" warning. An inspection report indicated that the battery modules were damaged due to internal cell expansion, suggesting possible manufacturing flaws. The owner noted that many others in a 100-member owner group have experienced similar problems.
Although GAC Aion's warranty for the Aion S Plus covers three key electric components for 3 years or 150,000 kilometers, some owners claim their vehicles exceeded the mileage limit prematurely or were denied coverage due to minor scratches. Many have had to pay over 10,000 yuan for repairs out of pocket.
Numerous complaints have been filed on consumer platforms regarding battery bulging, cell rupture, and fluid leakage in models such as the Aion S Plus and Aion S魅580, most of which were purchased in 2023 and equipped with CALB batteries. One commercial driver described repeated battery failures at 280,000, 300,000, and 320,000 kilometers, severely affecting his business.
GAC Aion clarified that warranty terms are publicly available through official channels, including its app, but noted that specific contract details may vary by dealership. The company has pledged to look into allegations regarding CALB's batteries.
Despite previously promoting its vehicles as "unbreakable" and highlighting their suitability for ride-hailing—including an 800,000-kilometer warranty on key electric components for commercial use—the recent battery failures have cast doubt on these claims.
GAC Aion's sales grew rapidly after its first model launched in 2019, largely driven by B2B demand. However, as ride-hailing markets matured, sales plummeted: 2024 sales fell 21.9% to 375,000 units, and 2025 sales dropped another 22.62% to 290,000 units. Capacity utilization stood at just 54% in 2025.
In response, GAC Aion replaced its general manager in March 2025 and introduced a strategy to separate B2B and B2C branding. A new sub-brand was created for commercial vehicles, while consumer-oriented initiatives, such as a partnership with JD.com, aimed to boost retail sales. Although these efforts led to a sales rebound in early 2026, the battery controversy now threatens to undermine the brand's recovery.