AION, a Chinese electric vehicle brand, and its parent company GAC have partnered with Chelsea Football Club, the reigning Club World Cup champions. The deal makes AION the Official Automotive Partner of the London-based club. This partnership marks a significant step in GAC's global expansion and AION's entry into new markets. The collaboration will involve combined storytelling, brand experiences, and engagement with Chelsea's fanbase.
As part of the partnership, an AION car will lead the men's team players to Stamford Bridge, Chelsea's home stadium. The AION branding will be visible inside the stadium and on broadcasts worldwide. Chelsea Football Club, founded in 1905, has a rich history and a strong fanbase. The club's men's team won the FIFA Club World Cup in 2025, further solidifying its reputation as a top-tier football club.
AION was launched in the UK in early summer 2026, with its first model, the AION V electric SUV, being joined by the electric UT hatchback in UK showrooms last month. The brand offers the Great 8 Promise, which includes an eight-year warranty, eight years of servicing, roadside assistance, and MOT tests. This comprehensive package aims to provide customers with peace of mind and confidence in their purchase.
AION Auto UK Managing Director Jon Wakefield expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating that it is "another big step in establishing AION as a serious UK player." He added that the brand looks forward to working with Chelsea on various projects in the coming months. Todd Kline, President of Commercial at Chelsea FC, also welcomed the partnership, saying that the club is proud to support GAC in the next stage of their growth.
AION was founded in 2017 as an electrified brand from GAC Group, which was established in 1997. GAC Group builds internal combustion, hybrid, and electric vehicles, and AION is part of its efforts to expand into the electric vehicle market. The partnership with Chelsea Football Club is a strategic move to increase brand visibility and reach a wider audience.
The AION V and UT models are currently on sale through AION showrooms in the UK. AION Auto UK is a joint venture between GAC and Jameel Motors, headquartered in Slough. The partnership with Chelsea Football Club is expected to drive growth and increase brand awareness for AION in the UK market.
The collaboration between AION and Chelsea Football Club is a significant development in the automotive and sports industries. With AION's commitment to providing high-quality electric vehicles and Chelsea's rich history and global reach, this partnership is poised to bring exciting opportunities for both parties. Key aspects of the partnership include brand visibility, fan engagement, and joint marketing initiatives.
Key points
- AION and GAC have signed a deal to become the Official Automotive Partner of Chelsea Football Club.
- The partnership includes branding and marketing initiatives, such as an AION car leading the team to the stadium and branding inside Stamford Bridge.
- AION was launched in the UK in early summer 2026, with a comprehensive warranty package and a range of electric vehicles.
