Geely considering EVs for Australia?

Chinese automotive giant Geely Auto is reportedly searching for an Australian retail partner for its EV range.

That’s according to Carsales which says “multiple carsales sources have confirmed the leading Chinese auto brand has been hunting for a distribution partner in Australia and has the intention of setting up shop here in 2023-24”.

Geely could offer plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and all-electric SUV, ute and passenger models, and would be a value-priced player lining up against Chinese brands such as MG, BYD, Chery and GWM Ora and Tank, says the Australian company.

It understands Geely could include Australia in a wider exploration of right-hand drive markets, with the United Kingdom also likely to feature.

Carsales reports it has been told Geely is not only seeking an Australian distribution partner but also potentially a local investor to help cover right-hand engineering and manufacturing costs.

A Geely spokesman says: “No immediate plans for Geely Auto’s launch in Australia at this stage,” according to the report.

Any move by Geely into Australia could also see the Zhejiang Geely Holding (ZGH) Group – which includes Volvo Cars, Polestar and others – extend its EV range for New Zealand.