Grab, Southeast Asia’s leading superapp, has entered into a strategic partnership with Chinese automaker GAC to deploy an initial 20,000 electric vehicles (EVs across the region, strengthening efforts to modernize ride-hailing fleets and expand sustainable transport options.
Under the partnership, Grab and GAC will integrate their respective technologies to enhance the in-vehicle experience for Grab’s driver-partners, while also exploring improvements in after-sales support and fleet operations. The collaboration combines Grab’s hyperlocal mobility expertise in Southeast Asia with GAC’s global experience in electric taxi and ride-hailing solutions.
The initial rollout will feature three GAC EV models—Aion Y, Aion ES, and Aion V—in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand. The vehicles are designed for professional ride-hailing use, offering features such as wide 90-degree door openings, generous rear legroom, and interiors configured for long driving hours.
As part of the partnership, the Grab driver app will be integrated directly into GAC’s intelligent cockpit system. This allows driver-partners to access navigation, trip information, high-demand area guidance, and safety alerts through a larger in-car display, reducing reliance on mobile devices and helping drivers stay focused on the road.
Grab driver-partners will be able to access the EVs through rentals from fleet partners or via financing options under Grab’s car ownership programs. Both companies said they will continue to explore technological innovations and expand EV deployment across the region.
“Integrating the Grab driver app into GAC’s cockpit system allows driver-partners to receive critical information in a more ergonomic and intuitive way,” said Philipp Kandal, Grab’s Chief Product Officer. “This reduces cognitive load while supporting our shared goal of advancing sustainability and carbon neutrality.”
The three GAC models were selected to meet varied market needs in Southeast Asia. The Aion Y is widely used for electric taxi services and premium airport transfers, the Aion V carries a Euro NCAP five-star safety rating and offers long range in an SUV format, while the Aion ES is known for its efficiency and ergonomic design in high-utilization fleet operations.
For GAC, the partnership provides access to Grab’s extensive regional network, offering exposure to millions of users and valuable insights into Southeast Asia’s fast-evolving mobility market.
The collaboration comes amid rapid EV market growth in the region. According to the International Energy Agency’s Global EV Outlook 2025, electric vehicle sales in Southeast Asia rose by nearly 50% in 2024.
Grab has positioned itself as a regional testbed for EV solutions as part of its commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040. Initiatives include expanding EV access for driver-partners, supporting charging infrastructure through partnerships, and increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly rides.
In the Philippines, Grab previously launched GrabTaxi Electric, the country’s first fully electric, on-demand taxi fleet recognized by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) in June 2025. Similar initiatives are underway across Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia, where Grab currently operates more than 11,000 EVs.
With the Grab-GAC partnership, both companies aim to accelerate EV adoption while improving operational efficiency and driver experience across Southeast Asia’s ride-hailing sector.