Aion has confirmed further UK details for the new UT, an electric supermini that will become the Chinese brand’s second model when it arrives later this year.
Following the larger Aion V SUV, the UT will enter an increasingly crowded electric supermini market, competing with models including the Renault 5 E-Tech, Citroën ë-C3, Peugeot E-208 and BYD Dolphin as well as the forthcoming Volkswagen ID. Polo.
Aion is hoping to stand out with a combination of generous standard equipment and a comparatively long range. Its 60kWh battery provides up to 268 miles of travel range, while charging from 30% to 80% battery takes a claimed 24 minutes.
Its single electric motor produces 204hp, enough for a 0-62mph sprint time of 7.3 seconds.
Well-equipped as standard
Aion describes the UT as a supermini, although its focus on maximising interior space should give it appeal to buyers who need a small family car rather than simply an urban runaround.
Standard equipment will include heated front seats, a 15-inch central touchscreen and a 360-degree surround-view camera.
There is just one trim level, although an optional ‘Premium Pack’ adds a panoramic glass roof, powered tailgate, ventilated driver’s seat and wireless smartphone charging.
The UT was styled with input from GAC’s Milan design studio and has also received UK-specific chassis tuning. Changes for British roads include revised springs, dampers, bump stops and anti-roll bar settings.
Eight-year ownership package
Like the Aion V, the UT will come with the brand’s unusually comprehensive ‘Great 8 Promise’. This provides an eight-year vehicle warranty, eight years of servicing and roadside assistance, as well as MOT tests until the car reaches eight years old.
The package is tied to the car rather than its first owner, meaning the remaining cover transfers if the UT is sold.
UK launch and pricing
UK order books will open in September, with the first customer deliveries scheduled for October. Pricing has yet to be announced.
