Why it matters
The deal expands the supply of EVs available to Grab’s driver-partners at a time when Southeast Asia’s EV market is growing rapidly, while also strengthening Grab’s long-term push toward carbon neutrality and lower operating costs for drivers.
What’s happening
Under the partnership, GAC will roll out three of its key EV models—the Aion Y, Aion ES and Aion V—across Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Thailand.
The vehicles will be added to Grab’s growing EV fleets, increasing both the number and diversity of electric vehicles available on the platform.
The models are designed for professional ride-hailing use, featuring wide 90-degree door openings, spacious cabins and ample rear legroom to improve comfort for both drivers and passengers.
Technology integration focus
Beyond fleet expansion, the collaboration centers on integrating Grab’s driver app into GAC’s intelligent cockpit system.
This allows driver-partners to view navigation, high-demand area guidance and safety alerts directly on the vehicle’s larger cockpit display, reducing the need to switch between devices.
Grab said the integration is designed to lower cognitive load, reduce eye strain and improve road safety, while enabling drivers to accept trips more seamlessly during active rides.
What they’re saying
“At Grab, we are constantly seeking innovations that empower our driver-partners,” Philipp Kandal, Grab’s chief product officer, said in a press release.
“By integrating the Grab driver app directly into the GAC cockpit display, our driver-partners can receive timely and important data in a more ergonomic way, while advancing our shared commitment to carbon neutrality.”
Vehicle lineup explained
GAC said the three models were selected to meet diverse market needs across Southeast Asia. The Aion Y, a best-selling model, is widely used for electric taxi services and premium airport transfers.
The Aion V carries a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating and combines long range with a spacious cabin, while the Aion ES is known for its efficient range and ergonomic design, making it a popular electric taxi option.
Access and financing
Grab driver-partners will be able to rent the EVs through Grab’s fleet partners or access financing support under Grab’s car ownership schemes.
Both companies are also exploring ways to enhance after-sales support for fleet vehicles.
Bigger picture
The partnership aligns with GAC’s global strategy to build a full-chain EV ecosystem, while giving the automaker exposure to millions of Grab users across Southeast Asia.
For Grab, the collaboration supports its emissions reduction-first approach toward achieving carbon neutrality by 2040.
According to the International Energy Agency’s Global EV Outlook 2025, EV sales in Southeast Asia rose by nearly 50 percent in 2024, highlighting growing demand and policy support across the region.
Grab said it will continue expanding EV access by improving vehicle availability, partnering on charging infrastructure and driving consumer demand for eco-friendly rides across its markets. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
