The Chinese automotive manufacturer, Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC), a publicly traded entity in Shanghai and Hong Kong, has announced an expansion of its sales and after-sales network in Morocco, extending its reach to Rabat, Agadir, and El Jadida. This announcement comes just two weeks after the launch of three electrified models in Casablanca, which include the hybrid plug-in GN8 minivan, the HT SUV, and the Hyper SSR sports car, all under its premium brand, Hyptec.
The Moroccan company M-Automotiv, which is the exclusive importer and distributor for GAC, will manage this expansion from its existing three sales points—two located in Casablanca and one in Tangier. This partnership encompasses the importation, distribution, and after-sales services for the three brands within the Chinese group: GAC, Aion, and Hyptec.
During an event held on September 24 in Casablanca, GAC International’s Vice President, Wang Feng, alongside M-Automotiv’s General Manager, Souhail Houmaini, unveiled their plans to an audience of approximately 600 guests. GAC regards Morocco as a key strategic hub for its operations in North Africa, positioned at the crossroads of Africa and Europe.
Recent Launches Enhance GAC's Moroccan Portfolio
The recent launch of these three models complements the introduction of three SUVs earlier in July, namely the Emzoom (gasoline, 177 horsepower), the Emkoo (hybrid, 235 horsepower), and the S7 (plug-in hybrid, up to 500 horsepower). GAC now claims to offer a diverse range within Morocco that addresses various segments, engine types, and mobility needs, featuring four engine options: traditional, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and battery-electric.
The GN8, a seven-seater hybrid minivan, boasts an impressive combined range of over 1,000 kilometers, aimed at meeting the needs of families and businesses alike. The HT, an electric SUV with 340 horsepower, advertises a range of 620 kilometers based on European NEDC standards and is distinguished by its gull-wing doors. The Hyper SSR, equipped with three electric motors, delivers a staggering 1,224 horsepower, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 1.9 seconds.
On the same evening, GAC also showcased the Govy AirCab for the first time in Africa, an autonomous electric air taxi designed for short-distance urban travel at low altitudes, aimed at urban air mobility and aerial tourism. M-Automotiv announced that Morocco will receive its first unit of this innovative aircraft. The event venue was transformed into a transport terminal, allowing guests to experience the exhibition as if they were passengers, complemented by a spectacular display of light drones and laser shows set to music.
Chinese Vehicle Sales Surge in Morocco
According to the Moroccan Vehicle Importers Association (AIVAM), the 21 Chinese brands operating in Morocco registered 17,096 passenger vehicles from January to August 2026, a significant increase from 7,080 vehicles in the same period the previous year. Their market share reached 14% of passenger vehicle sales by September. Electrified models, including hybrids, plug-in hybrids, electric vehicles, and those with range extenders, accounted for 17.8% of passenger vehicle registrations in the first nine months of the year, with fully electric models holding a 1.1% market share as of the end of August (1,619 units).
M-Automotiv, which emerged in June 2023 following Cap Holding's acquisition of Renault Group Morocco's branches in Greater Casablanca, distributes the Renault, Dacia, and Alpine brands. The company expanded its portfolio to include the Chinese brand JAC in November 2024, followed by Soueast, Exeed, and South Korean KGM. In July, General Manager Souhail Houmaini stated that the launch of GAC in Morocco represents a pivotal milestone in M-Automotiv's trajectory. Established in 1997, the Canton-based group claims a presence in 102 countries, with 15 factories, five research centers, and over 100,000 employees.
As reported by barlamane.com.