Chinese e-commerce giant JD.Com will play a key role in the launch of a new electric vehicle jointly developed with battery maker Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL) and Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC), the company confirmed, emphasizing that it will not be involved in the vehicle’s manufacturing.

JD.Com will contribute its expertise in consumer insights and serve as the exclusive online sales platform for the upcoming EV, according to a statement from the Beijing-based firm. The announcement follows reports that the internet company is set to enter the automotive sector.

The new vehicle is scheduled to debut on November 11, coinciding with China’s annual Double 11 shopping festival. Sources indicate JD.Com will begin internal and public test drives at the end of October.

The car is a battery-swappable version of the Aion UT, a pure electric vehicle launched in February with a starting price of 69,800 yuan (approximately USD 9,775), according to a source close to GAC Aion, the new energy vehicle division of Guangzhou Automobile.

GAC Aion has been expanding its battery-swapping infrastructure in recent years. In April 2022, it opened its first supercharging and battery swap center in Guangzhou. In May 2024, it signed a cooperation agreement with CATL and its unit Amperex Technology Service for a battery-swap project. The automaker also introduced a battery-swappable version of the Aion S in August.

JD.Auto, the parent company’s automotive division, operates a one-stop platform covering vehicle selection, auto parts sales, maintenance services, and new energy solutions. JD.Com currently manages nearly 3,000 auto service centersacross China, servicing cars, motorcycles, and two-wheeled electric vehicles.