GAC GROUP(SH:601238) 2 1 Shi Ji Jing Ji Bao Dao·2025-10-14 14:28Core Viewpoint - GAC Group is facing significant challenges, with a notable decline in sales and a historic net loss, prompting a shift to a "wartime state" and a focus on three major battles for the future [2][4]. Sales Performance - GAC's cumulative sales from January to September 2025 reached 1.1837 million units, representing a year-on-year decline of 11.34% [2]. - The mid-year report for 2025 indicated a net loss of 2.538 billion yuan, marking the first half-year loss for GAC in nearly a decade [2]. Brand Development - GAC's high-end new energy brand, Aohai, has struggled with sales, selling only 2,095 units in September, compared to 19,600 units for a competing model from Xiaomi [2]. - Aohai was established as a standalone brand in January 2025, aiming to compete in the high-end market alongside GAC's other brands, Aion and Trumpchi [6][15]. Product Strategy - Aohai HL, the first model under the new strategy, features the "Xingyuan Range Extender Platform" and a new design language called "Shanhai Architecture" [4]. - The company is undergoing a significant transformation, with the establishment of a reform committee and the introduction of the Integrated Product Development (IPD) process [4][28]. Technological Innovation - GAC is focusing on developing range extender technology, with the Xingyuan Range Extender Technology being a key innovation [16][20]. - The new technology aims to improve energy efficiency, achieving an oil-electric conversion rate of 3.73 kWh/L, surpassing the industry average [25]. Market Positioning - Aohai is attempting to redefine its brand image and market positioning, moving away from its previous association with Aion to establish a distinct identity focused on "technology, luxury, and high quality" [14][33]. - The company is adopting a user-centric approach to product development, utilizing insights from Huawei's IPD methodology to better understand consumer needs [28][29]. Competitive Landscape - The high-end electric vehicle market is becoming increasingly competitive, with GAC's Aohai facing challenges from new entrants that have established strong brand identities [10][14]. - Aohai's initial models have not performed well in the market, highlighting the difficulties traditional automakers face in transitioning to high-end segments [9][11]. Future Outlook - GAC's leadership has set ambitious goals for the company's transformation, aiming for a significant increase in the share of self-owned brands in total sales by 2027 [43]. - The success of Aohai in proving its brand value through sales will be critical for GAC's overall reform efforts and future viability [44].