8:39 am, October 28, 2026
Aion has announced plans to expand its UK dealer network with its first foray into the Northern Irish market.
The Chinese brand brand has appointed Shelbourne Motors as its exclusive retail partner across Ulster, with three sites set to open next year.
The family-run dealer group will represent the outfit at locations in Belfast, Newry and Portadown, with the potential to grow down the line.
Duncan Johnston, network development director at Aion Auto UK, said the dealer group had the experience and reputation needed to establish the brand in Northern Ireland.
He added: ‘The Ward family has spent more than 50 years building customer relationships in Northern Ireland and has a proven record of representing major manufacturers.
‘That experience, together with the team’s plans for Aion, made Shelbourne stand out as we build a long-term presence with a partner who can grow with us as our model range expands.’
Aion, which made its UK debut in May with the fully electric Aion V family SUV, added the Aion UT hatchback to its line-up in October.
The brand’s offering is set to expand next year with the arrival of the electric UT Cross and GS7 SUV.
All Aion models come with the manufacturer’s Great 8 Promise, which includes an eight-year, 100,000-mile vehicle warranty, eight years of servicing and roadside assistance, and MOTs until the vehicle reaches eight years old.
Alan Thompson, chief operations officer at Shelbourne Motors, said the appointment reflected the group’s ambition to grow.
He said: ‘Chinese manufacturers are bringing greater choice and new technology to the market. Aion’s approach to its retail partners and long-term ownership support stood out to us.
‘As its exclusive retail partner, we have the opportunity to build the brand here from the outset.’
The appointment forms part of Aion’s wider UK expansion, with further retailer announcements expected before the end of this year.
The manufacturer is hoping to have at least 100 retailers by 2030.
Pictured: Alan Thompson, Shelbourne Motors (right) and Duncan Johnston, Aion Auto UK (left)