Chinese manufacturer GAC recently unveiled its Aion Hyper SSR electric hypercar in Milan, marking the first time the vehicle has been presented to Europeans. The Hyper SSR is a tri-motor car that boasts impressive performance figures, including 1208bhp and 8851lb ft of torque. With dimensions similar to the Lotus Evija, the Hyper SSR measures 4538mm long, 1988 mm wide, and 1238mm high.
GAC claims that the Hyper SSR can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 1.9 seconds, putting it on par with the Rimac Nevera. It also has a top speed of 155mph. According to China’s CLTC testing regime, the Hyper SSR has a range of 314 miles from its 74.68kWh battery.
The Hyper SSR features a carbonfibre body and brakes, making it relatively light despite the lack of weight specifications from Aion. Additionally, carbonfibre is used for the wheels, and the car is equipped with a large retractable active rear spoiler to increase downforce at higher speeds. The design also includes frameless gullwing doors.
Inside the Hyper SSR, GAC has opted for a hexagonal steering wheel and reduced the number of buttons, similar to Tesla’s Model 3 saloon. The car is equipped with sports seats suitable for both everyday and high-performance driving, as well as features like active cruise control, dual-zone climate control, eight speakers, a 14.6in touchscreen infotainment system, and an aviation-inspired 8.8in digital driver display.
A notable aspect of the Hyper SSR is its commitment to environmental sustainability. Aion claims that the car does not use any animal products and incorporates 3D-printed materials, recycled yarn, and biodegradable vegan leather. The design of the Hyper SSR was a result of a joint venture between GAC’s Guangzhou headquarters and its base in Los Angeles.
Although the Hyper SSR is currently just a concept, GAC has announced plans to put it into production soon. This follows the introduction of the Enpulse roadster, another sports car concept by GAC that was revealed in 2020 and shares a similar size to the Toyota GR Supra. GAC aims to challenge Europe’s supercar elite, such as Ferrari and Lamborghini, stating that China has ended their monopoly.
In terms of pricing, the Hyper SSR was launched in China last year with a starting price of ¥1,286,000, equivalent to approximately £140,000 in the UK. The Ultimate Track Version, which is the most expensive specification, costs ¥1,686,000 yuan or £184,400. In comparison, the Croatian-built Rimac Nevera is priced at £2.4 million. While GAC has not confirmed if the Hyper SSR will come to Europe, its introduction in Milan suggests a potential expansion into the European market.
Overall, GAC’s Aion Hyper SSR showcases impressive performance capabilities and a commitment to sustainability. Its design and features position it as a potential competitor to established supercar brands. With its entry into the European market, GAC has the opportunity to disrupt the traditional dominance of European supercar manufacturers.