Hold on to your hats, folks, because a new electric vehicle is about to shake up the market! Chinese automotive giant Geely, already making waves in Australia with its EX5 SUV, is now targeting affordability with its latest EV offering: the Geely EX2 hatchback. But here's the real kicker: it's launching in Thailand, a key right-hand-drive market, with a starting price equivalent to a jaw-dropping $A19,000! Could this be the EV revolution we've been waiting for?
Earlier this year, Geely introduced its own brand to the Australian market with the EX5 SUV, boasting a starting price of $40,990. We even dubbed it the "king of premium value EVs" after putting it through its paces on Aussie roads. Now, Geely is doubling down on its commitment to accessible EVs.
The Geely EX2, currently known as the Geely Xungyuan in China, isn't just another EV; it's a sales phenomenon. It's currently the best-selling car in the world's largest automotive market, China. And this is the part most people miss... the success in China demonstrates Geely's capability to produce and sell EVs at scale, a crucial factor for global expansion and affordability.
To keep things simple for buyers, the EX2 comes in two trims: Pro and Max, a strategy mirroring the EX5's approach in the Australian market. This streamlined approach makes the selection process user-friendly and avoids overwhelming potential customers with too many options.
Both EX2 variants in Thailand are equipped with a substantial 40.16 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery pack supplied by CATL, a leading battery manufacturer. This battery pack provides an NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) range of 395 km. But here's where it gets controversial... the NEDC range is known to be more optimistic than the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) cycle. Expect a more realistic WLTP range closer to 320 km. Both variants offer 6.6 kW AC charging and 70 kW DC fast charging, allowing for a 30-80% charge in a swift 21 minutes. This fast charging capability is a major selling point, minimizing downtime and maximizing convenience for drivers.
Powering the EX2 is a robust 85 kW motor in both Thai-bound models, capable of accelerating from 0-50 km/h in just 3.9 seconds. This motor enables a top speed of 135 km/h, which is more than adequate for navigating city streets and suburban environments. It's important to remember that top speed isn't everything; the EX2's focus is on providing efficient and responsive performance for everyday driving.
Inside, the EX2 boasts a class-leading 14.6-inch infotainment screen powered by Flyme, a system similar to that found in the Australian-delivered Geely EX5 SUV. This large, user-friendly screen provides access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle information, enhancing the overall driving experience.
The Geely EX2 will be available in four colors: White, Grey, Silver, and Beige, further simplifying choices for buyers. This streamlined approach to color options is consistent with other Geely models, ensuring a cohesive brand identity.
Peace of mind is also a priority, with the EX2 backed by a 6-year or 160,000 km vehicle warranty and an 8-year or 180,000 km battery warranty. This comprehensive warranty coverage demonstrates Geely's confidence in the reliability and durability of its vehicles and batteries.
Geely launched the Geome Xingyuan (the EX2's Chinese name) in the third quarter of 2024. By May 2025, just eight months after its launch, the brand proudly announced that over 200,000 units had rolled off the production line. This rapid production rate highlights the EX2's popularity and Geely's manufacturing prowess.
The Geome Xingyuan's popularity has propelled it up the sales charts, surpassing competitors like the BYD Seagull (also known as the Atto 1 in Australia) and even the Tesla Model Y. So far in 2025, this model has achieved impressive sales figures, with over 400,000 EVs sold in the first 11 months. These sales figures speak volumes about the EX2's appeal to consumers.
With Geely introducing its next model in Thailand, could other right-hand-drive markets be next in 2026? We'll be keeping a close watch, given the potential affordability it brings to the EV market. An EV for under $20,000 AUD could fundamentally change the automotive landscape in countries like Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.
What do you think? Could the Geely EX2 be the game-changer the EV market needs? Would you consider buying one if it became available in your country? And perhaps the most controversial question: Is a slightly lower real-world range an acceptable trade-off for such a significantly lower price point? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
