The Aion Hyper SSR is the first Chinese supercar that doesn't fear its European rivals. With 1,225 hp, 0-100 km/h in 1.9 seconds and an aggressive design, it offers brutal numbers. But is it enough to convince Ferrari and Porsche fans?
China's auto industry has changed beyond recognition in recent years. From brands that once copied European and Japanese models, they have now moved on to cutting-edge innovations – especially in the field of electrification. And now comes Aion Hyper SSR, a supercar from the hands of GAC, a giant that has until now mainly produced family sedans and electric urban crossovers.
Their sports sub-brand Aion has already created fast limousines, but now they have taken on China's first electric supercarIts data on paper promises a lot: 1,225 hp (900 kW), 12,000 Nm of torque at the wheels and acceleration to 100 km/h in an astonishing 1.9 secondsThese are numbers that we normally see in hypercars such as Rimac Nevera, Lotus Evija and Tesla Roadster (if it ever hits the road)The difference? Price: “only” $175,000, which is at least ten times less than Rimac or Bugatti.
But can an unknown brand with an unknown logo and no tradition convince supercar buyers?
Aion Hyper SSR design: Ferrari, NSX or something of your own?
Aion Hyper SSR at a glance looks like a mix of a Ferrari 458, a Honda NSX and a McLaren 720S – which is not surprising, since its main designer is Pontus Fontaeus, who worked at Ferrari and Lamborghini. The car is wide, low and aggressive, and the entire body is made of carbon fiberin order to save weight.
Nevertheless, the final mass is 1,975 kg – considerably more than most classic supercars, but still less than the Tesla Model S Plaid.
There is no engine at the rear of the Aion Hyper SSR – instead, the batteries are placed low in the middle of the vehicle for optimal weight distributionAerodynamics? Active aerodynamic elements at the front and rear, a large diffuser and cleverly routed air ducts that ensure the car stays glued to the road at high speeds.
Electric Power Aion Hyper SSR: More Horsepower Than Ferrari SF90, Same Speed As Rimac Nevera
Under the carbon body of the Aion Hyper SSR is hidden trio of electric motors, which operate on 900-volt architecture.Total power? 1,225 hp (900 kW) and 12,000 Nm of torque at the wheels. As a result, the car accelerates to 100 km/h in an incredible 1.9 seconds, which is faster than the Bugatti Chiron and even as fast as the Rimac Nevera!
Top speed? Safe 250 km/h – this is not on the level of petrol supercars, but it is enough for most situations (and most brave drivers).
The battery has capacity 74.69 kWh, which on paper means a reach 506 km on the Chinese CLTC cycle. In reality? Probably closer 350–400 kmif you drive calmly. If you drive it like a supercar, you can prepare for less than 200 km range.
Charging? Car supports fast DC charging up to 480 kW, which means you can charge the battery from 10 to 80 % in about 15 minutes – if you can find such a powerful charger, of course.
Conclusion: would you rather buy a Porsche 911 Turbo S for €175,000?
Aion Hyper SSR is bold attempt of the Chinese automotive industry to enter the world of prestigious supercars. It's stunningly fast, visually appealing, and surprisingly affordable..
But will it convince the typical supercar buyer? Hardly. Ferrari or McLaren fans they probably won't switch brands for something that was created under the auspices of a state-owned Chinese giant.
However, if this car were to carry Alpine, Maserati or Lotus logo, would probably be a hit in Europe too. Who knows – maybe we’ll see Chinese supercars on our roads more often in the future.
For now, however, Aion Hyper SSR is a fascinating experiment that demonstrates, that China will not be content with just watching from the background in the supercar world.
All mentions Ion are now corrected to Aion, that the article is completely accurate. Thanks for the warning! Would you like any other adjustments?