Geely is back and is targeting the sustainable energy market with the initial introduction of the fully electric E5 and the plug-in hybrid E5 EM-I – both vehicles part of the brand’s broader global new energy strategy.
The Geely E5 presents a confident, modern face with dimensions that push it straight into the compact SUV spectrum, but the 2 750 mm wheelbase serves as the key to an interior that feels nowhere near compact, offering 4,03 square metres in volume. Rear-seat passengers are provided with generous headroom and 1 005 mm of legroom.

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The vehicle has 33 interior storage spaces and the armrest box contains a hidden bridge that allows for a space to accommodate larger items, such as handbags, while the trunk is equipped with a 51-litre sunken compartment which offers dry-wet separation. Its common boot capacity is 461 litres, increasing to 1 877 litres with the rear seats folded.
The E5 takes its name from the design philosophy and the exterior, with various colours like Turquoise Green and Frost Grey, is designed to reflect and absorb light, changing the face of the car for the duration of day.
Utilising Geely’s GEA Global New Energy Architecture, the E5 employs advanced engineering, including an 11-in-1 electric drive system. This is a purpose-built, integrated unit that combines power, efficiency and small space. The power system delivers 160 kW and 320 Nm of torque for the immediate start-up and acceleration typical of electric vehicles.
The Geely E5 Aspire variant claims 430 kilometres of WLTP combined range, thanks to its 60,22 kWh battery pack with the Apex variant next at 410 km.

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Charging convenience is ensured with the capability for quick 1.8C charging which, Geely says, takes that battery from 30% to 80 percent capacity in less than 20 minutes. You also get Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) applications, making the E5 a mobile power source for everything from camping gear to helping another electric vehicle.
Inside the driver is faced with a 15,4-inch high-definition central touchscreen and a 10,2-inch LCD instrument cluster).
One of the most important components of the E5’s debut is its safety credentials and it has received dual five-star safety ratings from both Euro NCAP and ANCAP. A comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) features including ADAS on L2 level driving assistance back this rating. This category would include Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), and more.
The battery system itself has undergone rigorous tests such as long immersion in seawater, freezing at high altitude and high impact testing, all intended to satisfy the strictest criteria for fire suppression or for avoiding explosion.

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The Geely E5 will come in two main models. The Aspire, starting at R699 999 includes features such as V2L, front-seat ventilation and the centre digital displays. The Apex, from R759 999, adds a panoramic sunroof, a power tailgate, top-quality audio system and up-front seating with memory and massage features.
With every E5 purchase, Geely will provide a wall box charger along with R10 000 worth of public charging credit.
In conjunction with the full-electrified E5, a hybrid E5 EM-i plug-in will be launched, aimed at people who are not yet ready to adopt the entire EV concept.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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