GAC E8 Hybrid coming to PH market in 2026?

DOE gives HEV recognition to E8 MPV

After entering the electrified segment with the Emkoo Hybrid last year, it has been a quiet 2025 in terms of model rollout from GAC Motor Philippines.

They previewed the plug-in hybrid version of the M8 at this year’s MIAS, but since then, we have not heard of a launch date happening soon for the luxury MPV. Likewise, there could be a hybrid version of the Empow sedan and the GS8 SUV, which are both already recognized by the DOE. Hopefully, 2026 will be the year we’ll see those out in the market.

But wait, GAC could be taking its time to introduce one more. The Department of Energy has updated its list of recognized hybrid vehicles, and there’s a new addition from GAC – it’s the E8 HEV.

While you might think it’s just the hybrid version of the M6 Pro, the E8 is a different MPV altogether, which could slot in between the M6 Pro and the M8 in the GAC lineup.

Based on the regulatory filing, the E8 and the Emkoo Hybrid could be sharing the same 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a 1.8 kWh battery, making a combined system output of 238 PS and 300 Nm of torque.

Inside, the E8 could come with captain’s chairs for the second row. Model variants in its home market even include a 4-seater version, much like the Lexus LM. Other features that could come with the E8 include a panoramic glass roof, full leather upholstery, an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster, a large 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, dual-zone automatic climate control, a wireless charging pad, a power tailgate, and intelligent driver assist systems.

Should GAC push through in offering the model, this could be a more affordable alternative to the M8, all while enjoying the benefits of a hybrid in the country, with its exemption from the number coding scheme.