Stylistically the E5 represents a massive departure from Geelys of old. Images: Charl Bosch One of the numerous Chinese brands that have entered or returned to South Africa this year, Geely has, arguably, been the most bullish in wanting to change previous product perception. Compared to Chery’s re-entry four years ago, the parent company of Volvo has set its sights on the new energy vehicle segment right from the start instead of playing it safe by introducing a range of normal combustion engine products.
Similar, therefore, to BYD, the manufacturer once responsible for the underwhelming, tiny LC hatch, the Opel Astra-aping MK hatch and sedan and the EC7 sedan makes its local market comeback with the E5 crossover SUV offered either as an EV or a plug-in hybrid called the EM-i. Revealed in its home market last year as part of the Galaxy range of new energy vehicles, the E5, or Galaxy EX5 in China, finds itself uniquely placed with no real competition from either BYD, Chery, Omoda & Jaecoo or even Great Wall Motors (GWM). Available in two trim levels, the electric E5 carries a price tag of R699 999 and R759 999 which, unlike the EM-i plug-in hybrid – known as the Galaxy Starship 7 abroad – affords it the luxury of being the only battery-powered vehicle of its kind within the mentioned price bracket.
While set to change with the arrival of theGAC Aion Y Plusnext year, the E5’s arrival for the week-long stay, in range-topping Apex grade, came as a huge departure from the current range of Geely SUVs, which have been present since 2022 via struggling Malaysian brand, Proton. Part of an eventual four brand roll-out including Furizon, Zeekr and Riddara from 2026, the E5 caused a great deal of consternation among onlookers unfamiliar with the badge previously used on the EC7 sold locally as the Geely Emgrand. Identified only by a small Geely badge on the tailgate, the nondescript Frost Grey paint option failed to detract from the extensive finger pointing and inquiries the E5 received whether charging or on the move.
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Typically Chinese futuristic in appearance, but with a few styling cues “borrowed” from the outgoing Mercedes-Benz GLB when viewed from the rear and side, the E5 still ventures on the discreet side compared to the more flamboyant BYD Sealion 7. Riding on 19-inch alloy wheels, the newcomer belies its compact and almost too conservative appearance with an interior that undoubtedly rates as its centrepiece.
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