Geely Auto, parent firm of Lotus, Volvo and Polestar, has confirmed plans to enter the UK market as a standalone brand and debuted its first model.

Geely’s first model, the EX5 electric SUV, opens for orders in Q4 2025

The Chinese auto giant is developing a UK distributor, Geely Auto UK, to introduce its passenger car operations to the UK market.

The latest Chinese newcomer to the UK has also showcased its inaugural UK model, the EX5, at the Octopus Electric Vehicles Drive Day ahead of its arrival in Q4 this year.

Technical specifications for the all-electric SUV haven’t been revealed yet but the model is offered in other markets globally with either a 49.5kWh or 60.2kWh battery pack, delivering up to 267 miles (430km) of range, and with a 218hp front-mounted motor.

Initial UK versions of the Geely EX5 have undergone customer clinics, but are also undergoing intensive development work to ensure they meet the demands of the market, including with fleets.

Geely Auto UK has also commissioned Geely offshoot Lotus Engineering for a comprehensive evaluation of the EX5, providing a basis for future tuning of the SUV tailored to UK and European roads and customer driving styles.

Mike Yang, general manager at Geely Auto UK, said: “We know the Geely EX5 is a great product with several core features that will appeal to a British audience. 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.

“For that reason, before we release the car for sale, we’re working with the experts at Lotus Engineering to make sure we have a car that’s in line with expectations. 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.”

The introduction of the EX5 begins Geely Auto’s commitment to delivering “a diverse range of high-quality, accessible vehicles tailored for the UK”.

Geely said its UK launch signals a new, advanced phase in the company’s globalisation strategy.

Geely Auto UK, the first distributor for Europe, will work integrate local dealers, suppliers and strategic partners as Geely Auto remains committed to its “one country, one policy” strategy – a customised approach to local market demands while maintaining precise measures to ensure efficient operations across more than 80 countries and regions globally.

Geely Auto’s globalisation plan, set out in its ‘Five by Five’ strategy, focuses on expanding its presence through five global design centres, R&D hubs, testing clusters, powertrain pathways and AI ecosystems. The company aims to strengthen its market share in over 80 countries, backed by a 53% increase in exports in 2024.

Geely Auto’s sales hit a record 2,176,567 vehicles in 2024; up 34% year-on-year increase. The brand also further expanded its international footprint with cumulative overseas export sales of 414,522 units in 2024, an increase of over 57% year-on-year.

Geely Auto expanded its reach in the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, Africa, Latin America, Europe and other regions, launching 16 high-value mainstream models in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kazakhstan, Panama and other key markets, building 891 sales and service outlets in 81 countries.

Looking ahead in 2025, Geely Auto will enhance its channel and aftersales coverage by adding more than 300 overseas sales and service outlets and is expected to have more than 1,100 outlets worldwide by the end of year, with the UK market being one of the key regions for the marque’s globalisation plans.