► A new electric SUV from Geely
► UK release date penned for Q4 2025
► Lotus is consulting on engineering
Geely is launching in the UK with a new electric SUV called the EX5. If you’re thinking you’ve heard this all before, we understand; Geely is the automotive giant behind the likes of Volvo, Lotus Cars, Polestar and (some of) Smart. Only now it’s deciding to go it alone in the UK, too.
It’s interesting, then, that Geely Auto would decide not to capitalise on its existing roster of household brands and instead badge the EX5 as its own car.
What’s the plan?
Geely’s ‘Five by Five’ strategy will see it focus on expanding its global presence through five global centres for design, R&D, testing and powertrain operations.
It’s hoping to strengthen its market share, as well as increase exports by 53%. The UK market is next in line to help Geely achieve those aims.
What about the Geely EX5?
The EX5 meets the regulatory requirements of 89 countries and will be available in both right-hand drive and as a left-hooker, making a truly global car. It is, of course, an electric C-segment SUV. To make it even more universally palatable for a crossover-mad world.
Geely says UK-spec cars have already undergone customer clinics, but they’ll work more on localisation issues for the British market. ‘We know the Geely EX5 is a great product with several core features that will appeal to a British audience,’ said Mike Yang, general manager at Geely Auto UK. ‘That’s why we chose it to be our first passenger car for sale in the UK. However, we’re aware that UK customers have unique demands.’
A little help from Lotus…
To help refine the EX5 to UK tastes, Geely is also drawing on the know-how of Lotus Engineering, in a move that is both logical and surreal at the same time. ‘Lotus Engineering has a formidable track record along with some of the best R&D resources, so we’re delighted to be working closely with them,’ Yang added.
With that in mind, Lotus is working on both chassis and dynamics development along with thorough testing on road, track and a multi-post rig. What Lotus engineers thought of the EX5, and the scope of their possible changes, remains to be seen. Either way, Geely hopes it’ll make the EX5 suited for European roads and driving styles.
Anything else?
The styling of the Geely EX5 looks understated in looks and character. Boxy, non-descript and subtly styled, it’s certainly tapping strong levels of hire-car chic. Interior pictures suggest a large touchscreen and digital dials in the cockpit, but there’s very little else to go on.
It should be released in the UK later in 2025.