Geely's Galaxy brand has officially launched its first rugged SUV, the Galaxy Starship 700, in China. The model is available in three powertrain options and six trim levels, with a limited-time launch price ranging from 169,800 to 359,800 yuan (about $23,900 to $50,700). The vehicle is built on Geely's new GTA native new-energy off-road architecture, which the company says solves the trade-offs that have historically plagued the segment.
At a press conference following the launch, Li Chuanhai, vice president of Geely Automobile Group and president of Geely Auto Research Institute, described the Starship 700 as the culmination of Geely's years of technological accumulation. "It solves all the problems that exist in the industry, so it is the 2.0 era of off-roading," he said, according to Sina Auto.
Bridging the gap between comfort and capability
Li explained that traditional off-road vehicles with body-on-frame construction excel in extreme off-road scenarios but fall short in daily commuting comfort and handling. Conversely, some softer SUVs handle city driving well but lack the ruggedness needed for outdoor adventures. The Starship 700 aims to cover both ends, addressing 80-90% of daily commuting needs while still offering top-tier off-road performance.
The vehicle features a "two soft locks and one hard lock" differential system for extreme traction, an AI-based all-terrain mode, and precise torque control. Li emphasized that the SUV's integrated frame and advanced chassis are designed to deliver both on-road refinement and off-road capability. "This car is the result of Geely's years of expertise in architecture, new-energy powertrains, and safety technology," he added.
The launch event also highlighted the vehicle's emergency floating capability, which allows the SUV to stay afloat in water, and a 45-degree hill-climb demonstration. Geely has opened its emergency floatation patent to the industry, citing corporate social responsibility.
Pricing strategy and market ambitions
The Starship 700's launch price is 30,000 yuan lower than its pre-sale price, a rare move for Geely. Fan Junyi, deputy general manager of Geely Automobile Group Sales, said the pricing reflects the company's cost and procurement advantages, not a price war. "We judge price wars by whether products are sold below cost, whether they are profitable, and whether quality is sacrificed," he said.
Geely aims for the Starship 700 to lead its segment. "We want to be in the first camp in every segment we enter, and for this product, we want to aim for the top," Fan said. The company reported that within 12 minutes of the launch, the vehicle received over 10,000 firm orders.
The Starship 700 is also part of Geely's broader push to evolve its Galaxy brand, which launched in February 2023. The company plans to offer official modification kits and has set up dedicated service channels, including new Galaxy gold-standard brand stores, to support the off-road community.
