Southeast Asia – Grab and Chinese automotive manufacturer GAC have entered into a strategic partnership to introduce an initial 20,000 electric vehicles (EVs) into ride-hailing fleets across Southeast Asia.
The collaboration will see GAC’s Aion Y, Aion ES, and Aion V models rolled out across Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand. The partnership also aims to expand the availability of EVs on the Grab platform, while also focusing on system integration to improve the in-vehicle experience for Grab’s driver-partners.
Both companies said they are also exploring ways to enhance after-sales support for fleet vehicles.
Moreover, the GAC models selected for the deployment feature specifications are designed for professional ride-hailing use, including 90-degree door openings and increased rear legroom, intended to improve comfort for both drivers and passengers.
As part of the agreement, Grab’s driver application will be integrated into GAC’s intelligent cockpit system. This will allow driver-partners to access navigation, high-demand area guidance, and safety alerts directly through the vehicle’s display, reducing the need to switch between devices while driving.
Philipp Kandal, chief product officer at Grab, said, “At Grab, we are constantly seeking innovations that empower our driver-partners. By integrating the Grab driver app directly into the GAC cockpit display, our driver-partners can receive timely and important data, such as precise navigation and safety alerts, in a more ergonomic way.”
Philipp added, “This ensures a more seamless and intuitive experience that reduces our driver-partners’ cognitive load, while advancing our shared commitment to carbon neutrality and a sustainable future.”
Additionally, Grab’s driver-partners will be able to access the EVs through rental options with fleet partners or through financing support under Grab’s vehicle ownership schemes. The companies said they are also looking to expand the use of EVs and explore further technology integrations over time.
The selection of the three models was based on their suitability for Southeast Asian operating conditions, with a focus on safety, range, and interior space. The Aion Y has been positioned as an electric taxi option for airport transfers, while the Aion V carries a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating and is designed as a long-range electric SUV. The Aion ES has also been deployed as an electric taxi model.
Grab said the partnership supports its broader sustainability agenda, which includes increasing EV access for driver-partners, expanding charging infrastructure through partnerships, and promoting consumer demand for lower-emission transport options.
Across the region, Grab has introduced several EV-related initiatives. These include an “Eco-Friendly Ride” option in markets such as Singapore and Thailand, charging partnerships in Vietnam, a drive-to-own EV scheme in Thailand, a fully electric and hybrid GrabCab fleet in Singapore, the launch of GrabTaxi Electric in the Philippines, and the deployment of more than 11,000 EVs in Indonesia.
The partnership with GAC is intended to build on these efforts by increasing fleet availability and accelerating the transition towards electric mobility in Southeast Asia.
