If Proton wants to start selling EVs, here’s something they may want to consider
Geely’s all-electric offshoot, Geometry has launched its new EX3 electric crossover, which will go on sale in China at a starting price of just 59,700RMB (RM38,675 approx.), making it the brand’s most affordable EV to date.
For that price, customers get a rather compact vehicle that measures 4,005 mm long, 1,760 mm wide and 1,575 tall, with a wheelbase of 2,480 mm. To give you a mental picture of its size, the EX3 is 60 mm shorter, 50 mm wider and 60 mm lower than the Perodua Ativa. However, despite having a wheelbase that is shorter by 25 mm, it offers 500 litres of boot space that can be expanded to 1,050 litres by folding the rear seats.
Though small in size, the EX3 is big in technology and features. In terms of powertrain, there’s a single electric motor that generates a healthy output of 94 hp and 180 Nm of torque. Perhaps even more impressive is the claimed range of up to 322 km based on the NEDC cycle, which is made possible by a 37.23 kWh battery pack.
According to Geometry, the battery supports DC fast charging that is capable of charging from 0 to 80% in less than 30 minutes. To extend the lifespan of the battery and ensure optimal performance, the company deploys a liquid cooled battery temperature management system that keeps the temperature of the battery at 20°C.
While the exterior appears cheap and unimaginative at best, the interior certainly doesn’t look like a sub-RM40,000 car. On top of expensive-looking suede-like material and ergonomically designed seats, you’ll also find a large 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a floating-type 8-inch infotainment screen on top of the dashboard. Needless to say, features like smartphone mirroring, navigation, satellite radio, voice command and in-car WiFi are all present.
PRESS RELEASE
Geometry, the pure electric brand from Geely Auto Group showcased its most affordable EV to date with the launch of the EX3 crossover.
The Geometry EX3 offers users 322km of range under the NEDC cycle, thanks to a 37.23kWh battery which can be charged from zero to 80% in less than 30 minutes with high-speed DC chargers. The vehicle is also designed to be readily able for charging by plugging into a normal household 220V socket. The EX3 is equipped with a 70Kw e-motor that provides 180Nm of torque and a highly efficient regenerative braking system, putting it on par with traditional gasoline vehicles in terms of performance.
SAFETY FIRST.
When developing the EX3, Geely Auto Group R&D engineers put the vehicle through Geely’s most stringent of testing regimes which include several hundred individual tests on the full vehicle and electric drive systems before taking it to market. Safety equipment on the Geometry EX3 includes dual airbags, reversing sensors and cameras, Tire Pressure Monitoring system as well as ABS + EBD. The model also comes standard with high-strength steel front and rear anti-collision bars with tensile strength above 590MPA.
The EX3 adopts a liquid cooled battery temperature control management system which allows the vehicle to safely charge at high speeds and operate efficiently in hot and cold temperatures. The internal temperature of the battery is kept at 20°C to maximize its performance in all conditions and extend battery life.
YOUTHFUL DESIGN
The EX3 at 4005mm long x 1760mm wide x 1575mm high with a wheelbase of 2480mm offers class leading interior space designed to fit five comfortably with room to spare. Maximizing space utilization, its 26 storage compartments allow occupants to store all their things with ease. In addition, the EX3 offers 500L of luggage space expandable to 1050L with rear seats folded.
Aesthetically, the interior design was developed with young consumers in mind. Adopting a two-tone black and blue colour scheme with visually impactful fluorescent highlights, a stylish, clean, and sophisticated atmosphere is created. Suede-like soft touch materials applied liberally throughout the interior and ergonomically designed seats provide occupants with a more comfortable ride experience.
Intelligence is brought to the cockpit with a digital 10.25inch LCD instrument screen and 8 inch floating central infotainment panel. The EX3 comes with Geely’s G-Link system providing mobile device mirroring, native QQ music, Autonavi navigation, Ximalaya radio, voice control, in-car Wi-Fi, and other smart applications.
SALES
The Geometry EX3 will be first available at Geometry dealers that cover over 20 cities across China and will look to export markets in due course. Users within China are able to order the EX3 via the Geometry App with a 300RMB deposit.
The Geometry EX3 will be one of the most affordable five seater EVs in the Chinese market with presale estimated price from 59,700RMB (approximately $9,200USD)
