Chinese car brand hints at building vehicles in UK just weeks after 'landmark decision'

Felix Reeves

By Felix Reeves


Published: 18/02/2026

- 15:05

Geely has already sold more than 500 vehicles in the UK since its launch in October

A leading Chinese car brand could look at building cars in the UK in the near future after it continues to expand into the new market.

Geely Auto Group entered the UK market in late October with its first model, the EX5 electric compact SUV.


Despite only launching a few months ago, it has made a positive impression with drivers in the UK, registering more than 500 new vehicles.

Geely said it aimed to expand its presence in the UK market as part of its "new, advanced phase in the company's globalisation strategy".

The Geely EX5 has an impressive range of up to 267 miles, rapid charging capabilities and even a heat pump inside the vehicle. The SE model starts from £31,990.

Its UK head of sales, Harry Bathe, has now suggested that the brand could look to produce cars in the UK or Europe.

He told Auto Express: "It makes sense for us. If the brand grows to a point where it makes financial sense, then we'll do it, absolutely."

The manufacturer said it was looking to accelerate its UK legacy with 50 franchised dealer showrooms during its initial "soft-launch phase".

The Geely EX5 electric car has officially been launched in the UK

Geely hinted that it could look to establish a factory in the UK

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GEELY

Geely already have research and development bases in Coventry, Frankfurt and Gothenburg, with the West Midlands centre employing around 100 designers and support staff.

The parent brand of Geely, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, owns or has strategic stakes in Volvo, Polestar, Lotus, and Smart.

Geely is one of a handful of Chinese brands to launch in the UK in recent years, with British drivers embracing the new manufacturers entering the market.

The likes of BYD, Jaecoo, Omoda and Chery have all made an impressive start to life in the UK, with all Chinese brands on the market making up more than five per cent of the total share in 2025.

The Geely EX5

Sales of the Geely EX5 started in the fourth quarter of 2025

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GEELY

Chery Commercial Vehicle has confirmed that it will establish its first European headquarters in Liverpool, with the move being praised by locals.

Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said: "Chery Commercial Vehicle's landmark decision to base its European HQ in our city region is a fantastic vote of confidence in our advanced manufacturing and green innovation sectors.

"This move will create high-quality jobs and long-term economic benefits, helping to further strengthen our region's reputation at the forefront of cleaner, smarter transport."

The arrival will create high-value jobs across engineering, software development, R&D, and operational roles.

The Chery Tiggo 4 on display at Chery's launch event in LondonThe Chery brand was launched in the UK last year | CHERY

Liverpool has been selected for its rich manufacturing history and "global expertise", with Chery citing its longstanding connection with Shanghai.

Gong Yueqiong, General Manager of Chery Commercial Vehicle, said: "We are not just bringing products to the UK - we are building a British business.

"Our 'In UK, For UK, Be UK' strategy reflects our belief that true globalisation comes from deep localisation.

"By recruiting local talent, collaborating with UK institutions, and adapting to local needs, we aim to become a valued contributor to the UK's automotive industry and economy."