Geely has refreshed its Galaxy E5 compact electric SUV for the Chinese market, with a starting price of 97,800 yuan (about $13,800) for the entry-level version. The updated model brings notable changes, including a shift to rear-wheel drive for most variants and the availability of a lidar-equipped advanced driver assistance system on the top trim. According to NetEase Auto, the new Galaxy E5 is positioned as the first 800V electric SUV in the 100,000-yuan (about $14,100) segment.
Powertrain and platform upgrades
The most significant mechanical change is the switch from front-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive for the four main configurations. These variants are built on a full-domain 800V architecture and feature a rear-mounted electric motor producing 245 kW (about 328 hp), an increase of 85 kW over the previous model. The entry-level 530 km version remains front-wheel drive on a 400V platform, with a 160 kW (about 215 hp) motor. The lineup offers three battery options—60.22 kWh, 61.52 kWh, and 70.01 kWh lithium iron phosphate packs—with CLTC ranges of 530 km, 550 km, and 635 km respectively. For reference, CLTC figures are typically 15-20% more optimistic than WLTP, so the corresponding WLTP estimates would be roughly 450 km, 470 km, and 540 km (est.). The main variants support 6C ultra-fast charging, significantly reducing charging times compared with the previous model.
The rear-drive versions use a front MacPherson and rear five-link suspension, with some models featuring CCD variable damping shock absorbers. The front-drive entry version has a simpler rear four-link setup. Geely highlights a body torsional stiffness of 36,000 N·m/deg, 1500 MPa hot-formed steel in the lower body, and a bulletproof coating on the battery pack, along with a tire blowout stability system that can maintain control at speeds up to 160 km/h in a straight line and 120 km/h in a curve.
Lidar-based ADAS and interior tech
The Galaxy E5 is one of the few models in its price class to offer lidar. The top trim, priced at 137,800 yuan (about $19,400), includes the Qianli Haohan H5 assisted driving system, which supports city and highway NOA (navigation on autopilot), cross-floor memory parking, and fingertip parking. Lower trims do not have the lidar hardware, so their driver assistance capabilities are more basic. The system is complemented by a 15.4-inch 2.5K floating central touchscreen, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a new three-spoke steering wheel, and a crystal rotary knob. Other features include a head-up display, 540-degree transparent chassis, four-zone voice control, 50W wireless charging, and a 160-liter front trunk—a new addition that improves practicality.
The exterior retains the familiar design with a closed front face and slim headlights, but adds a matte chrome accent on the front bumper and a more sporty front lip. The roofline now houses the lidar unit, and the door handles revert to a traditional style for reliability in cold weather. Dimensions vary by version: the rear-drive models measure 4,630 mm long, 1,920 mm wide, and 1,670 mm tall with a 2,745 mm wheelbase, while the entry front-drive version is slightly narrower and longer in wheelbase at 4,615 mm, 1,901 mm, and 1,670 mm with a 2,750 mm wheelbase.
Compared with the BYD Yuan Plus, a key rival in the 100,000-140,000 yuan segment, the Galaxy E5 offers a more aggressive package with rear-drive, 800V charging, and lidar, but the Yuan Plus benefits from a larger installed base and a more extensive service network. The new Galaxy E5's significant changes—new drivetrain layout, battery, and suspension—mean it must rebuild its market reputation, and the large gap between the entry and main variants could confuse buyers. NetEase Auto suggests the model will appeal to younger consumers seeking driving fun and advanced tech at a low entry price, provided quality control holds up.
