Chinese car maker coming to UK

Geely has begun setting up a network of 30-40 dealers nationwide through Manganese Bronze Holdings, which manufactures the iconic London ‘Black Cab’.

The two companies are already partners, as Geely manufactures Black Cabs in China for world markets. The new venture, however, is being started completely from scratch and will be called Geely Auto UK.

Matthew Cheyne, market development director of Geely Auto UK, is heading up the team responsible for the sales, marketing, dealer development and distribution of Geely vehicles in the UK.

“We will start by importing the Geely Emgrand EC7, C/D-segment sized four door saloons and five door hatchbacks, initially with 1.5 and 1.8 litre petrol engine options.

“But Geely has a comprehensive range of models well suited to European requirements. We will be aiming to widen our range just as quickly as possible, probably at least a new model range every year for the next four to five years.

“Geely cars are already suitable for Europe and meet EU homologation and whole vehicle type approval and of course Euro 5 emissions. They are all well equipped products but at affordable prices and will carry a five-year, 100,000 mile warranty.”

Cheyne added: “The first Emgrand EC7 models to arrive are likely to have a range starting price of approximately £10,000.

“At this stage we are not volume driven but we will increase our sales significantly as customers get to know our products and more models are added to the range. Our priority at launch is to have a representative network which wants to deliver real customer satisfaction.”

Pictured: the Geely Emgrand EC7