Grab and GAC Group to Deploy 20,000 Electric Vehicles Across Southeast Asia

Grab and GAC Group announced a strategic partnership on January 8, 2026, to deploy 20,000 high-performance electric vehicles across Southeast Asia. This major collaboration involves Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand, aiming to bolster the region's transition toward sustainable transport. The agreement focuses on hardware supply and deep technological integration to enhance the daily experience for driver-partners.

A primary feature of the deal is the integration of the Grab driver app directly into GAC's intelligent cockpit system. This allows drivers to view navigation, safety alerts, and demand heat maps on the vehicle's large dashboard display instead of relying on external smartphones. By removing the need for multiple devices, the partnership aims to reduce driver distraction and improve overall road safety.

The rollout includes three models from the GAC Aion electric sub-brand: the Aion Y, Aion ES, and Aion V. These models were selected for features that meet the rigorous demands of professional ride-hailing, such as 90-degree door openings and ample rear legroom. Each model is designed for specific uses, from standard city taxis to premium airport transfer services.

Philipp Kandal, Chief Product Officer at Grab, stated that the integration of the driver app into the cockpit display allows partners to receive data in a more ergonomic way. "This ensures a more seamless and intuitive experience that reduces our driver-partners’ cognitive load, while advancing our shared commitment to carbon neutrality," he said.

To support vehicle adoption, Grab is providing flexible financing options such as a Drive-to-Own model in Thailand. This program allows drivers to pay for their electric vehicles through their daily earnings with no initial down payment. Additionally, Grab is collaborating with charging networks like EBOOST and Charge+ to ensure drivers have access to discounted power rates and better infrastructure.

The partnership comes as the regional electric vehicle market sees significant growth, with sales rising by nearly 50 percent in 2024 according to the International Energy Agency. GAC aims to use Grab's reach to build brand awareness and gain deeper insights into Southeast Asian driving conditions. This shift is a key part of Grab's effort to achieve carbon neutrality by the year 2040.