China’s best-selling car is now in the UK targeting entry-level EVs. By Simon Harris.

What is it? Small EV hatchback  How much? From £20,990 (OTR)  Economy: 3.9-4mpkWh  Range: 157-214 miles

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The arrival of the Geely EX2 marks a significant moment for affordable electric motoring in the UK, even if its primary destination lies within the retail sector rather than fleet user car parks.

While the mainstream fleet market is dominated by larger models, entry-level compact vehicles are designed primarily to entice private buyers looking for an accessible switch to electric power.

Yet, while Geely expects the EX2 to be retail-driven, these small models still command a distinct presence that warrants closer evaluation from a fleet perspective.

Visually, the EX2 is a little more distinctive looking than is usual for this type of affordable Chinese electric vehicle. Geely has given this compact hatchback – currently the best-selling car in China – a clean and defined presence on the road. It manages to avoid looking anonymous without relying on unnecessary design flourishes, representing an honest aesthetic that works well in a fleet environment.

First impressions behind the wheel reveal a remarkably quiet and refined driving experience. Road and wind noise are isolated effectively from the cabin, providing a level of rolling refinement that punches well above its entry price tag.

Crucially, the EX2 offers a sensible, measured amount of power that is well-pitched for its target audience. With either an 82hp or 116hp electric motor driving the rear wheels, the performance is progressive and easy to manage. It delivers the predictable, safe power delivery required for daily urban commuting, avoiding the unnecessary acceleration typical of larger electric vehicles.

Cabin space is another strong suit. Despite its compact footprint, the packaging creates a genuinely spacious environment. Front and rear legroom are generous, ensuring a comfortable cabin, while the dashboard layout is dominated by a touchscreen that houses most controls seamlessly alongside a digital instrument cluster.

The straightforward line-up is divided into Pro, Max and Ultra trims. The entry-level Pro model starts at £20,990 OTR, featuring a 35kWh battery with a 157-mile range. Stepping up to the £23,490 Max introduces a larger 47kWh pack, boosting the range to a more useful 214 miles. But efficiency of 3.9-4mpkWh is a little disappointing in a small car. Standard active safety equipment is comprehensive across all variants, many of which are now mandatory in Europe in any case.

However, the specification strategy does present a significant frustration. Essential winter driver comforts – specifically heated front seats and a heated steering wheel – are completely absent from both the Pro and Max versions. Geely has followed the exact, stingy trim playbook seen on key segment rivals such as the Citroën ë-C3 and Hyundai Inster by withholding these basic items from entry-level buyers. Restricting these features to the top-tier £25,490 Ultra model feels like a missed opportunity for the UK market, where localised heated elements are far more energy-efficient than forcing the main cabin heater to work overtime. Making these universal could have been a good USP.

Beyond that equipment quirk, the EX2 proves to be a competent machine that simply gets the job done without fuss. For operators seeking a budget-focused, dependable option for urban pool fleets or local service roles, it could make a case for itself.

In Brief: 

Key fleet model: Pro

For: Space, comfort, sensible performance

Against: So-so efficiency; lack of physical controls

Seven-word summary: Competence, value and space, if not sparkle

Also consider: Renault 5 E-Tech; Nissan Micra; MG4 Urban