Paris Auto Show Highlights New Chinese EVs and European Models
Translated & summarized from Sport5 by baba
The Paris Motor Show highlighted new electric vehicles from Chinese brands GAC and Leapmotor, alongside updated European models. GAC presented its AION electric line and the larger GS7 hybrid SUV, with the latter expected in Israel in 2027. Leapmotor debuted its compact B03 electric car. Smart also revealed its #2 electric model, anticipated in Israel next year. Toyota launched an updated Yaris Cross hybrid in Israel, while the new Hyundai Bayon will not reach the Israeli market due to trade restrictions.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- GAC's AION electric brand and GS7 hybrid SUV were showcased at the Paris Motor Show.
- The GAC GS7 hybrid SUV is expected to arrive in Israel in the second half of 2027.
- Leapmotor unveiled its B03 compact electric car at the Paris exhibition.
- Smart's production #2 electric model, expected in Israel next year, was also presented.
- Toyota launched an updated Yaris Cross hybrid in Israel with minor price increases.
- The new Hyundai Bayon will not be imported to Israel due to trade restrictions.
The Paris Motor Show, marking a resurgence for European auto exhibitions, featured the unveiling of several new models, including French President Macron's attendance. Among the notable debuts were new electric vehicles from Chinese manufacturers GAC and Leapmotor, alongside updated European offerings.
GAC showcased its "AION" electric brand, re-entering the Israeli market with European-compliant models. The AION V, featuring European standards, was presented, along with the AION UT Cross, a variant of the existing UT model with "crossover" styling. This UT Cross is expected to reach Israel in the first half of next year as a trim level for the UT.
More significantly, GAC also revealed the GS7, a large plug-in hybrid SUV measuring 4.9 meters long. It boasts a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine paired with dual electric motors, offering a combined 345 horsepower and an estimated 100-120 km electric range. The GS7 is slated for an Israeli release in the second half of 2027, featuring a large 720-liter cargo space and advanced interior technology.
Leapmotor introduced the B03, a compact electric supermini developed with Stellantis. This model offers 194 horsepower, a 52 kWh battery providing 389 km of WLTP range, and fast charging capabilities. It is positioned as a more affordable option compared to existing compact EVs.
Smart presented the production version of its #2 electric car, expected in Israel in the second quarter of next year. This two-seater city car is compact, with a 2.75-meter length and a 290 km range from its 35.8 kWh battery.
Hyundai unveiled the second generation of its B-SUV, the Bayon, based on the i20. However, due to trade restrictions with Turkey, this model will not be imported to Israel. The new Bayon features updated styling and interior, with powertrain options including a 1.0-liter engine and a 1.6-liter hybrid.
In parallel, Toyota began marketing the updated Yaris Cross in Israel. This hybrid model, featuring a 1.5-liter engine with 116 horsepower, is available in two trim levels, "Eco" and "Urban," with minor price increases and the "Urban" trim adding features like a larger infotainment screen and wireless charging.
