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Chinese automotive giant Geely is set to make a push into the affordable EV sector with the launch of its new EX2 hatchback, scheduled for this August.
The compact model, known as the “Xingyuan” in its home market, aims to disrupt the segment by positioning itself as a direct rival to established European competitors, including the Renault 5 and the forthcoming Volkswagen ID Polo.
The EX2 will mark the third addition to Geely’s UK lineup, following the EX5 EV and the Starray PHEV. Designed as a practical, five-seat hatchback, it has already proven its mass-market appeal in China, where it sold 450,000 last year.
Technical specifications for the Chinese model feature a rear-mounted motor available in two outputs: 78bhp or 114bhp. Buyers in China can choose between lithium-iron-phosphate battery packs of 30.1kWh or 40.2kWh.
While these configurations currently offer ranges of 193 miles and 255 miles under the lenient Chinese CLTC testing cycle, industry observers are waiting to see if Geely will adjust these specifications for the UK market to better compete with the WLTP-rated range figures of its European rivals.
Alternatively, the manufacturer may leverage its production efficiencies to undercut competitors on price, a strategy that could prove pivotal in the competitive small-EV sector.
This launch is a cornerstone of Geely’s ambitious UK growth strategy. The company has publicly stated its intent to reach 100,000 annual sales in the UK by 2030 – a target that reflects massive scaling, given that even established players like Kia required several decades to hit a similar volume.
To achieve this, Geely plans to expand its portfolio to include 10 distinct models by 2029.
As Geely prepares to bring the EX2 to British showrooms, all eyes will be on whether this high-volume Chinese performer can replicate its domestic success in the highly discerning and competitive UK market.
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Chris Price
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