Top car brand coming to UK with new EV models rivalling Tesla and BYD

A major manufacturer that sold over two million motors last year is making its entrance into the UK car market, taking on a number of established players with its first offering.

Geely, the parent company of Volvo, Polestar and Lotus, is set to debut on these shores as a standalone brand. The Chinese car giant is positioning itself to take on established electric vehicle (EV) brands such as Tesla, BYD, Skoda and Hyundai. Its first release on British soil will be the EX5, an all-electric crossover SUV.

The EX5 is scheduled to arrive in showrooms this October, with prices starting at £31,990. Thanks to its modern styling and balanced performance, the model has already drawn comparisons with the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Skoda Enyaq and Nissan Ariya, as well as more budget-friendly Chinese models such as the Leapmotor C10.

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With an emphasis on space and comfort, the EX5 is aimed at both families and the fleet market, the latter of which continues to dominate EV sales in the UK. Last year, Geely sold nearly 2.2 million cars worldwide, representing a 34 per cent increase from 2023.

The tech it comes with will undoubtedly be a significant attraction for potential buyers. Even the entry model includes LED headlights with High Beam Control, automatic wipers, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry, a 15.4-inch central touchscreen and 360-degree parking camera as standard.

The EX5 Pro adds 19-inch alloy wheels and an alternative interior finish, while the Max edition raises the level of luxury with a panoramic sunroof, an automatic tailgate, ventilated massaging seats, a premium stereo system, ambient lighting and head-up display. This top version will retail at £36,990, still undercutting several of its direct rivals.

Performance has been tuned with British roads in mind, thanks to input from Lotus Engineering, which collaborated with Geely in testing and adapting the EX5. The result is acceleration from 0 to 62mph in just 6.9 seconds — and that's the standard version.

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In terms of efficiency, the base EX5 has a range of 267 miles, while its rapid charging capability allows the battery to charge from 30 to 80 per cent in around 20 minutes. Buyers will also be supplied with an Andersen A3 home wallbox charger, together with an eight-year extended warranty.

Geel has stated its intention to establish a nationwide network of dealerships and service centres to support its vehicles. More models expected to join the EX5 next year.

With a competitive price point, rapid charging, convincing range and a strong tech, the EX5 represents the first step in what could become one of the biggest shifts in the UK EV market in years.

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