Geely expands its French lineup

Six months after entering the French market, Geely has launched a third model, the E2, joining the E5 and Starray. The E2 is an electric city car targeting segment B, a category popular among French drivers, where the Renault 5 is a major competitor.

Design and space features

The Geely E2 measures 4.13 meters in length, beginning to be classified as a "large" city car. It has a 2.65-meter wheelbase, offering ample space, especially in the rear, where two adults can comfortably stretch their legs. The car also provides enough room under the front seats for feet without reducing trunk capacity to 375 liters. A 70-liter frunk under the front hood is available, useful for storing charging cables, made possible by the rear-mounted engine.

Interior and user experience

The E2 features a simple dashboard with two screens and physical controls on the central console, allowing users to activate the air conditioning or defrosting without navigating through the multimedia system's sub-menus. The driving position is easy to find, and the clear color of the upholstery and furnishings adds a slightly more premium feel compared to the typical black found in European cars.

Engine options and pricing

Geely offers two engine options for the E2. The first, called Pro, has an 82 hp engine powered by a 35 kWh battery and is priced at 20,990 euros. The second, Pro+ or Max+ depending on the finish, is equipped with an 116 hp engine and a 47 kWh battery. The Pro+ version is priced at 24,990 euros, while the best-equipped version is priced at 26,990 euros.

Performance and efficiency

The E2 has a maximum speed of 130 km/h and is reasonably soundproofed, allowing it to be driven on motorways without significant loss of autonomy. It maintains a charging speed of 80 kW between 10 and 80% battery charge (60 kW on the Pro version), allowing a 26-minute charge time. This makes it suitable for long-distance trips despite its limited autonomy of 345 km.

Handling and comfort

The E2 handles well on paved roads, providing a pleasant sense of stability, but its suspensions do not offer much comfort on degraded roads. The steering is light and suitable for city driving but lacks sensations on winding routes, a common complaint found on many Chinese models.

Market competition and challenges

Despite its qualities, the Geely E2 faces competition from French models such as the Renault 5 and Citroën ë-c3, which offer less rich equipment and less space but benefit from more advantageous tax measures and a capital of sympathy. At this price, the MG4 Urban offers more versatility. The Geely E2's positioning may need revision to better compete in the French market.