Chinese automotive manufacturer Geely Auto has officially confirmed its entry into the Irish market, with three new models scheduled to arrive in early 2027. The brand will make its Irish public debut at the Nevo Electric Vehicle Show in Dublin this weekend, giving visitors their first opportunity to see its latest electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Geely Auto Ireland will launch with a three-model line-up comprising the fully electric Geely E2 city car, the electric Geely E5 SUV and the Starray EM-i plug-in hybrid SUV. Customer sales are expected to commence during the first quarter of 2027, introducing another major Chinese automotive manufacturer to an increasingly competitive Irish new-car market. The brand will make its first public appearance at the Nevo Electric Vehicle Show, taking place at the RDS Simmonscourt in Dublin on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 November. Visitors will have an opportunity to explore the vehicles ahead of their official Irish launch, with Geely hoping to establish an early connection with motorists considering a move to electric or electrified motoring.
Three New Models to Lead Irish Launch
Geely’s initial Irish offering will cover three important segments of the market. The E2 will target motorists seeking a compact and accessible electric city car, while the larger E5 will compete in the increasingly popular electric SUV category. The Starray EM-i, meanwhile, will offer a plug-in hybrid alternative for buyers who want electric driving capability alongside the flexibility of a petrol engine. Although full Irish specifications have yet to be announced, the three models will form the foundation of Geely’s initial product strategy. Pricing, equipment levels, battery options and detailed technical specifications will be confirmed closer to the start of customer sales in 2027. With competition intensifying across the electric vehicle market, particularly among newer Chinese brands, Geely’s pricing strategy will be an important factor in determining its success in Ireland.
Dublin Headquarters and Dealer Network Planned
Geely Auto is also establishing a permanent presence in Ireland, with its new Dublin headquarters scheduled to officially open on 19 November. A dedicated local management team is already in place to oversee the company’s development, while preparations for a nationwide dealer network are progressing. Details of the first Irish retail partners are expected to be announced separately. Phil Eaglesfield, Chief Commercial Officer of Geely Auto Ireland, believes the Irish market presents a significant opportunity for the manufacturer as it continues its international expansion.
“Ireland is a dynamic and forward-looking market, making it a natural next step in Geely Auto’s international growth journey. Our ambition is to bring Irish motorists a fresh alternative, combining cutting-edge technology, outstanding value and a customer experience that exceeds expectations.”
He added: “The Nevo Electric Vehicle Show will provide the first opportunity for people to discover Geely Auto and experience our products first-hand, and we are excited to begin laying the foundations for a long-term future in Ireland. With a dedicated local team, a new headquarters and plans for a nationwide retail network, this is just the start of our journey.”
A Growing Global Automotive Manufacturer
While Geely Auto will be a new name to many Irish motorists, the company already has a substantial international presence. The manufacturer operates across nearly 90 countries and has been expanding rapidly into new markets, including the UK, Italy, Brazil and South Africa. Its arrival in Ireland forms part of a wider strategy to strengthen its position in Europe and other international regions. During 2025, Geely Auto recorded global sales of 3,024,567 vehicles, representing an increase of 39 per cent compared with the previous year. International exports reached 420,097 vehicles, while the company entered 13 additional markets and introduced 12 models across more than 40 overseas markets.
The manufacturer’s international development is supported by its ‘Five by Five’ strategy, which brings together five global design centres, five research and development centres, five testing clusters, five powertrain pathways and five artificial intelligence ecosystems. The approach is designed to accelerate vehicle development and support the transition towards increasingly connected and electrified mobility. Geely Auto has set a global sales target of 3.45 million vehicles for 2026 and continues to invest in its international retail, servicing and manufacturing operations.
For Irish motorists, the arrival of another established global manufacturer is welcome news, particularly as competition in the electric vehicle sector continues to grow. Much will depend on the final Irish pricing, vehicle specifications and strength of the dealer network, but Geely’s decision to launch with both fully electric and plug-in hybrid models should give the brand a broader appeal. The first opportunity to see what Geely Auto has to offer will come this weekend at the Nevo Electric Vehicle Show, ahead of its planned arrival in Irish showrooms early next year.
