The New Zealand automotive market, a space of constant evolution, has welcomed a formidable new player: Geely. While the name might be fresh to some, its influence is already deeply embedded in the premium sector as the parent company of Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus. Now, the parent brand has landed, bringing a trio of vehicles poised to challenge the status quo, particularly in the competitive company vehicle and fleet space. A comprehensive launch event from Auckland to Taupō provided a first look at the all-electric EX5 SUV, the Riddara RD6 electric ute, and the Starray EM-i "super hybrid" SUV.
The Geely EX5: An Electric Executive SUV
For businesses transitioning their fleets to electric, the medium SUV is a critical segment, and the Geely EX5 makes a strong first impression. With a starting price of $49,990, it presents a compelling financial case from the outset.
Driver comfort, a key consideration for high-mileage employees, is a standout feature. The aptly named “Marshmallow seats” are exceptionally comfortable and supportive, promising reduced fatigue on long journeys. The cabin feels premium, with a "cocooned" design for the front occupants and high-quality touchpoints that exceed expectations for its price point. The tech suite is modern, dominated by a large 15.4-inch central screen and digital cluster, with higher grades adding a panoramic sunroof and a Head-Up Display. A particularly clever feature for business users is the Flyme sound system, which includes speakers in the driver's headrest to pipe phone call audio directly to the driver's ear without disturbing passengers.
On the road, the EX5’s 160kW motor delivers smooth and brisk acceleration, making motorway merging effortless. However, the real-world range is a crucial metric for fleet managers. While the stated WLTP range is up to 430km, a real-world test on a 270km drive from Auckland in heavy rain and wind saw the battery drop to just 3% on arrival, which could be a point of anxiety for some users. This highlights the need to match the vehicle's range to specific operational requirements. Thankfully, its 100kW DC fast-charging capability, which can replenish the battery from 30% to 80% in 20 minutes, mitigates this concern for planned long-distance travel.
The primary drawback is an overly zealous Advanced Driver-Assistance System (ADAS). The system emits a loud, insistent beep for even a momentary 1 km/h transgression over the speed limit, which can become frustrating on New Zealand's undulating roads. While the safety intention is clear, its current calibration may be a source of driver annoyance. Furthermore, Android Auto is not available at launch, though it is slated for arrival in the first quarter of the following year.
The Geely Starray EM-i: The Pragmatic Hybrid
For fleets not yet ready to commit fully to EVs, the Starray EM-i "super hybrid" offers a versatile and highly efficient alternative. Sharing the same premium interior DNA and comfortable seating as the EX5, it delivers a slightly softer ride while maintaining confident handling. Its clever powertrain aims to operate in pure EV or hybrid mode as much as possible, transitioning seamlessly between power sources.
The Starray’s efficiency is its trump card for Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) calculations. On the same Auckland-Taupō-Auckland round trip, the Starray not only completed the journey without needing to be recharged but also covered an additional 200km, achieving an average fuel consumption of 6.3L/100km even after its battery was depleted. This performance makes it an outstanding choice for representatives who cover long distances.
However, it shares the EX5's over-eager speed warnings and has some ergonomic quirks that drivers will need to adapt to, such as inverted window controls (push up to open) and a single stalk that controls the gear selector, indicators, lights, and wipers.
The Riddara RD6: The Future of the Kiwi Work Ute
Geely also provided a glimpse into the future of the commercial sector with its all-electric Riddara RD6 Ute. On a technical off-road course, the ute was subjected to deep water wading, axle articulation tests, and steep climbs and descents, handling every challenge with impressive ease.
The instant, silent torque from the electric motor proved to be a significant advantage in the off-road environment, allowing for precise and controlled power application where it's needed most. The chassis felt rigid and composed, demonstrating that EV technology is more than ready for the rugged demands of a work vehicle. While the first look was brief, it was a convincing demonstration of the Riddara's potential as a future workhorse.
Geely has entered the New Zealand market with a confident, well-priced, and well-equipped lineup that commands attention. The build quality, powertrain technology, and interior comfort across all three models are exceptionally strong for their respective price points.
While the overactive ADAS is a notable negative, this is a software issue that could potentially be refined with an over-the-air update. Backed by a 7-year unlimited kilometre warranty, the ownership proposition is robust.
For fleets, the EX5 is a compelling pure-EV option for specific use cases where its real-world range is sufficient. The Starray EM-i, however, emerges as a pragmatic star, offering exceptional fuel economy and refinement without the range limitations of a full EV. The Riddara RD6, meanwhile, is a promising signal of what's to come for the electric commercial vehicle segment. Geely has firmly thrown down the gauntlet, and it is a brand that fleet managers can no longer afford to ignore.
