Geely is bringing the E2 into Europe’s small electric car market at a starting price more than 6,000 euros below the Renault 5. The Chinese brand is seeking a foothold in Europe, beginning in Spain, while building on its lead at home. The E2 is already on sale in several countries; in the UK, it is sold as the Geely EX2.
Zack Zhang, Geely’s product chief in Germany, puts it simply: “I think space is our biggest edge.” The E2 measures 4,135 millimeters long, making it 213 millimeters longer than the Renault 5 and 82 millimeters longer than the Volkswagen ID. Polo. Its wheelbase is larger too, giving passengers and luggage more room. Every centimeter matters in this segment. The E2 also stands out for its rear-wheel lead, while most B-segment electric cars use front-wheel lead. Several independent reviews have noted the distinction.
In Spain, Geely has established 50 sales points and plans to expand to 80 by the end of 2026, Lasexta reports.
Geely is competing on more than size. The E2 starts at 19,990 euros in Spain, compared with the Renault 5’s 26,290-euro base price. It also costs less than the Volkswagen ID. Polo and BYD Dolphin Surf. Known as Xingyuan in China, the E2 is the country’s best-selling electric car. In 2025, it became China’s top EV, with a base price of 64,800 yuan, or about 8,424 euros. Automotive outlets report that the gap widens further when comparing base prices without subsidies. Geely’s promotions and financing can bring the cost down even more for buyers.
Geely’s engineers in Germany and Sweden spent more than 7,200 hours adapting the E2 for European roads. They tested it for 720,000 kilometers at eight facilities. The result is a car built for city and highway driving. Rear-wheel lead sets it apart from most rivals, and European automotive analysts describe it as a direct challenger to the Renault 5 and VW ID. Polo. The price pressure is real. Established European brands are feeling it.
Spanish buyers can choose from three E2 versions. The Pro costs 19,990 euros and comes with a 35.4 kWh battery. Its motor produces 60 kW (82 hp), and its WLTP range is 252 kilometers. The Max, at 23,780 euros, has a 47.1 kWh battery. It pairs an 85 kW (116 hp) motor with a 345-kilometer range and DC fast charging up to 80 kW. The Ultra costs 26,280 euros and adds 16-inch alloy wheels and an electric tailgate. Ambient lighting comes with a 540-degree camera system. It lacks luxury extras but includes the basics for daily use. Reviews report that these specifications are similar across most European markets, although trim names and prices can differ.
ArenaEV reports that the Renault 5 benefits from government incentives and discounts in several European countries, while the Geely E2 relies mainly on its low base price and promotional offers to attract buyers. The outlet says this difference in pricing strategy is already influencing purchase decisions and market dynamics.
The EU has imposed a 28.8% tariff on Chinese-made electric vehicles. Even so, Geely aims to sell 5,000 vehicles in Germany this year, where its dealer network will grow from 35 to more than 60 locations. Globally, the company wants to export one million vehicles in 2024, with 400,000 destined for Europe and half of those for Eastern markets. In the first seven months of the year, Geely sold 17,283 vehicles in Europe, up from 1,316 a year earlier. The E2 alone drew more than 3,500 customer inquiries in its first month of reservations. European automotive publications say analysts are watching the model’s rapid sales growth as a sign of a shifting market.
Geely’s approach differs from that of European automakers. Volkswagen, for example, keeps its China-only ID. UNYX 09 out of Europe, as reported earlier. Some brands hold back their top models; Geely is betting on local adjustments and sharp pricing to win buyers.
Zhang says Geely’s advantage goes beyond price. The company develops its batteries and electric motors in-house. It also makes control units. A low entry price is not enough, he says: “You have to offer more.” Safety, driving feel and space matter just as much. The E2’s rapid rise in China reflects its success there. Reviews identify its Chinese name as Geely Geome Xingyuan; it is now one of the country’s best-selling electric vehicles.
The E2 is a direct challenge to Europe’s established brands. Its pitch centers on space and value, with engineering tailored to local roads. Rivals are being forced to rethink what buyers want. If the E2 maintains its pace, Spain’s small electric car market could change, with effects that may reach across Europe.
