The UK electric vehicle market is about to get a major new player. Chinese car manufacturer Geely has officially announced plans to launch 10 new electrified models in the UK by 2030, starting with the affordable EX5 electric SUV, priced from just £31,990.
Known globally for owning popular brands like Volvo, Polestar, Lotus, and LEVC, Geely is now stepping into the spotlight with its own nameplate. The company’s UK entry marks a strategic push to offer high-quality, affordable EVs to British families and fleet customers at a time when demand for electric mobility continues to rise.
A New Player in the UK EV Market
Geely’s UK debut begins with the EX5, a 4.6-metre-long fully electric SUV. It’s designed as a value alternative to well-established rivals such as the Skoda Enyaq, Ford Explorer, and Tesla Model Y.
The company plans to position the Geely brand as the entry point into its global automotive group, focusing on affordability without sacrificing innovation or quality. By 2030, its UK range will expand to include hatchbacks and crossovers across the B, C, D, and E segments, covering both hybrid and fully electric powertrains.
Model Strategy: 10 Cars by 2030
According to Geely’s UK leadership, the roadmap is clear.
- By the end of next year, there will be four models available in UK showrooms — two plug-in hybrids and another EV joining the EX5.
- By 2030, the brand will offer a total of ten models, spreading across multiple body styles and sizes to capture a broad customer base.
This balanced lineup will allow Geely to compete directly with mainstream European brands, offering similar performance and features at more accessible prices.
EX5: Affordable, Practical, and Electric
The EX5 serves as the spearhead for Geely’s UK ambitions. It’s available in three trim levels — SE, Luxury, and Max — priced between £31,990 and £36,990.
All versions share the same mechanical setup:
- Powertrain: 215 bhp single electric motor driving the front wheels
- Battery capacity: 60 kWh
- Range: Up to 257 miles (WLTP) on a single charge
- Performance: 0–62 mph in around 7 seconds
Charging is another strength. The EX5 supports DC fast charging up to 100 kW, enabling a 30–80% charge in roughly 25 minutes, ideal for long-distance commuters and families.
Interior quality is another highlight, with a modern layout featuring:
- A large 15.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- A digital driver display
- Heated and ventilated seats
- Premium sound system
- Wireless smartphone connectivity
- 360° parking camera and advanced driver assistance features
Exclusive Discounts and Incentives
To make the EX5 even more attractive, Geely is offering a private discount program that mirrors the UK government’s new electric car grant for sub-£37k models.
Buyers can save:
- £2,300 on the SE
- £3,200 on the Luxury
- £3,750 on the Max, matching the largest government incentive available
On top of that, Geely provides a £1,000 part-exchange bonus for trading in any petrol or diesel vehicle — bringing the potential savings up to £4,750.
Additionally, customers purchasing higher trims receive a £500 subsidy towards an Andersen home charger or a public-charging credit of equal value.
These offers place the EX5 among the most competitively priced electric SUVs currently available in the UK market.
A Strong Focus on Value
According to Geely UK managing director Michael Yang, the brand’s philosophy is built on delivering “extraordinary value” while maintaining sustainable profitability.
“We believe customers deserve exceptional products at accessible prices,” Yang said. “We’ll always focus on value, not just cost, and continue to keep our prices competitive even as we expand.”
Yang also hinted that the company’s UK presence — including engineering and design operations — strengthens its position to qualify for future government grants. Geely operates multiple design studios and engineering centres in Britain, alongside its ownership of the LEVC taxi plant in Coventry.
If successful, Geely could become the first Chinese manufacturer eligible for official UK EV subsidies, giving it a major advantage over other newcomers.
Designed for British Roads
To ensure the EX5 meets the expectations of UK drivers, Geely partnered with Lotus Engineering, another member of the Geely Group, to fine-tune the car’s chassis and suspension.
This collaboration has resulted in a ride and handling balance optimised for UK road conditions, combining comfort and agility. Geely also confirmed that the same engineering setup could be applied to future models, shortening development time and maintaining consistent ride quality across its range.
Brand Identity: Why It’s Not LEVC
Interestingly, the EX5 was initially intended to be sold under the LEVC badge, expanding the taxi maker’s range into passenger cars. However, after market research involving 1,450 British participants, Geely decided to launch the SUV under its own name.
Yang explained that customers associated LEVC too strongly with London taxis, while Geely had greater appeal for families and everyday car buyers. The decision underscores the brand’s focus on lifestyle-oriented vehicles rather than commercial transport.
European Production Possibilities
While Geely currently imports vehicles from China, it is exploring the option of European assembly to avoid potential tariffs on Chinese-made EVs.
Yang described local production as a “solution, not a target,” suggesting that if the market grows as expected, Geely could consider building vehicles in Europe — possibly leveraging existing Geely Group facilities or partnerships.
This flexibility reflects a long-term commitment to the UK and European markets, rather than a short-term export strategy.
A Competitive Landscap
Geely enters a rapidly evolving UK EV market, where competition is intensifying from both established European automakers and fellow Chinese brands.
By offering premium features at accessible prices, Geely’s approach could reshape the affordable EV segment and encourage other manufacturers to lower their pricing or improve specifications.
Its strong backing from the wider Geely Group — which already has a successful track record in the UK through Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus — gives it credibility and supply-chain stability that most newcomers lack.
The Road Ahead
With the EX5 leading the charge and a lineup of ten electrified models planned by 2030, Geely’s UK arrival represents one of the most ambitious automotive launches of the decade.
By focusing on value, reliability, and local adaptation, the brand aims to win over British drivers who want modern electric cars without premium-brand prices.
If Geely delivers on its promises — building a strong dealer network, ensuring aftersales support, and maintaining transparent pricing — it could soon become a household name in the UK EV market.
