Geely Starray / Geely E5
- The second-largest Chinese automaker after BYD, Geely , the giant that owns Volvo, Polestar , Zeekr , Lynk&Co , Smart, and Lotus, is launching in France under its own brand to democratize its previously relatively high-end pricing. Its Starray (hybrid) and E5 (100% electric) SUVs aim to appeal to a broad audience with a universally appealing design.
- These two aesthetically very similar models are somewhat reminiscent of the Ford Kuga 's style , and as luck would have it, an agreement has been signed between Ford and Geely to produce these two models alongside the Ford Kuga at the Valencia plant in Spain starting in 2027. It is even possible that the next generation of the Ford Kuga, planned for 2029, will use the platform of the two Geely SUVs.
- The future Ford Kuga will thus be available for the first time as a fully electric vehicle, in addition to the existing hybrid version. This partnership allows Ford to save on development costs for its future Kuga and enables Geely to establish a lasting presence in the European market, avoiding taxes on cars imported from China. Furthermore, Geely 's arrival in Valencia will boost activity at the largely underutilized plant (100,000 units produced in 2025 out of a capacity of 400,000).