Geely Auto has officially launched the EX5 electric SUV, debuting its presence in the Australian market with competitive pricing set to shake up the electric vehicle (EV) segment. The base variant, EX5 Complete, is priced remarkably at just $40,990 before on-road costs, significantly undercutting rivals including the Tesla Model Y and BYD Sealion 7. Positioned approximately $20,000 below these popular models, the EX5 is also cheaper than the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, which starts at $42,260.
The pricing announcement is even more attractive considering previous estimates suggested the entry-level model would start closer to $43,490. According to Chasing Cars, when they sampled the vehicle earlier this year, it was evident Geely intended to make the EX5 financially appealing. The phone systems certainly work, but whether Geely can build enough market share through pricing remains to be seen.
Deliveries of the EX5 began on March 11, 2025, and Geely is enhancing its appeal even more with promotional offers. Until April 30, all customers who purchase the EX5 will enjoy several benefits including three years of free servicing, one year of complimentary public charging through Evie, premium paint options at no extra cost, and the installation of home chargers.
Geely's EX5 is powered by a single electric motor, delivering 160kW of power and 320Nm of torque, making it competitive among mid-sized SUVs. The 60.22kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery provides impressive efficiency, with the EX5 Complete boasting a WLTP-tested range of 430km, and the Inspire trim at 410km, thanks partially to larger 19-inch wheels.
Fast charging capabilities are also comprehensive, allowing users to recoup 30 to 80 percent of their battery capacity within approximately 20 minutes via 100kW DC fast charging. This positions the EX5 well against its competition, emphasizing its practicality for longer journeys.
Interestingly, the vehicle isn't only about performance and pricing. Geely has integrated advanced technology features aimed at improving user experience, including:
- A 15.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with built-in navigation and 4G connectivity.
- A 10.2-inch digital driver display.
- High-quality sound with options for a 16-speaker Flyme audio system on the Inspire trim.
- Comfort-enhancing features such as heated and ventilated front seats with massaging functions and dual-zone climate control.
Among the standard safety features are adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and multiple airbags, ensuring driver and passenger safety remains at the forefront.
Geely's value offering doesn't stop there. Alongside its impressive seven-year unlimited-kilometre vehicle warranty, it also includes eight years of battery warranty coverage. This makes it one of the most competitive warranties available for EVs on the Australian market, enhancing buyer confidence.
CEO of Geely’s Australian operations, Lei Li, has plans for the company to establish itself as a top contender within the local automotive market, with aspirations for six new model launches over the next three years. Not all of these models will be fully electric, marking a strategic approach to cater to broader market preferences.
While initial reviews of the EX5 indicated potential glitches related to software performance, Geely has taken the feedback seriously and is making efforts to resolve these issues swiftly. Users can expect continuous software enhancements through over-the-air updates.
Despite having admirable features and pricing, the EX5 faces stiff competition from established brands known for their reliability and reputation. Nonetheless, as the EV market continues its rapid evolution, Geely’s commitment to value, technology, and customer service may well attract buyers seeking affordability without sacrificing quality.
With Geely's introduction of the EX5, the question remains: will it have what it takes to rival models like the Tesla Model Y? Only time will tell how consumer sentiment weighs against such established brands as they navigate price competition amid shifting expectations for electric vehicles.