New Geely E2 undercuts rivals as SA’s cheapest EV.
Image: Supplied
The BYD Dolphin Surf held the crown for the most affordable EV in South Africa; however, Geely has now taken that crown with its all-new E2.
Starting at R339,900, the newcomer undercuts the BYD Dolphin Surf by R2,000.
Dubbed the best-selling model across all segments in China, Geely has decided to introduce the E2 to the local market in a bid to tap into the “affordable” mobility market in South Africa for new energy vehicles.
At an exclusive event hosted by Geely, we got the opportunity to see the all-new E2 in the metal, and it’s certainly a good-looking vehicle. Geely says that its E2 boasts a modern, youthful design that reflects its role as a next-generation urban electric vehicle. A closed-off front end is present and enhances aerodynamic efficiency, with slim LED headlamps flanking the “grille”.
Dual digital displays headline the Geely E2’s modern interior layout.
Image: Supplied
The rear features LED technology for the taillamps, with an integrated roof spoiler giving a sporty look and feel while also improving aerodynamics. There are two wheel options on offer, depending on the derivative of the E2 you choose. The entry-level Aspire features 15-inch steel wheels with wheel caps fitted, whereas the range-topping Apex model employs 16-inch bi-coloured alloys.
The interior, as you would expect, adopts a minimalist look and feel. Two digital displays are on duty, namely an 8.8-inch instrument cluster and a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen powered by Geely’s Flyme Auto Smart System. The door and dashboard inserts feature an illuminated design element.
The Geely E2 packs a lot of features, which include six airbags, ABS, ESC, traction control, hill-start assist, and a tyre pressure monitor. The range-topping Apex model adds a host of advanced driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, intelligent high-beam control, and a 360-degree panoramic camera, to name a few.
Geely E2 debuts locally with up to 325km claimed range.
Image: Supplied
Charging-wise, Geely says that the E2 can charge at a maximum of 70kW on DC charging, with charging taking 25 minutes from 30–80%. AC charging will take 6.5 hours from 10–100%. Notably, the Geely E2 also features V2L (vehicle-to-load) functionality, which allows the vehicle to power external devices when required.
Powering the Geely E2 is an electric motor and a battery with a capacity of 39.4kWh, which results in 85kW and 150Nm of torque. The total driving range is claimed to be 325km.
The Geely E2 is priced as follows: Geely E2 Aspire – R339,900 Geely E2 Apex – R389,900
Included in the price are a 4-year/150,000km vehicle warranty, 8-year/200,000km battery warranty, 3-year/200,000km service plan, and 5-year/unlimited-kilometre roadside assistance.
IOL Motoring