Who would have imagined that the battle for South Africa’s most affordable electric vehicle would become one of the industry’s most fiercely contested segments? Yet, amid rising and often unpredictable fuel prices, that’s precisely where the market is.
I recently spent a week with the Geely E2, courtesy of Geely South Africa, to determine whether this compact electric hatchback can compete with rivals, particularly the BYD Dolphin Surf, which I reviewed earlier this year.
Launched locally in April, the E2 has a clear objective: to make electric mobility more attainable without forcing buyers to compromise on technology, comfort, or practicality. From the outside, the E2 takes a more restrained approach than its rival. Rather than embracing bold, futuristic styling, it opts for cleaner, more sophisticated lines.
A closed-off front grille improves aerodynamic efficiency, complemented by slim LED headlights and a neatly sculpted bumper. The long wheelbase and short overhangs give it balanced proportions, while the rear is finished with full-width LED lighting, a practical tailgate and an integrated roof spoiler.
Those who prefer understated elegance over attention-grabbing design will likely find the E2 more appealing.
Inside, the Geely immediately creates a more premium impression than expected at this price point. The cabin feels thoughtfully designed, with a large central touchscreen, crisp digital instrument display and soft touch finishes in key areas.
During my week behind the wheel, it felt noticeably more upmarket than the Dolphin Surf, whose youthful styling extends into its interior.
Technology is a strong point. Geely’s Flyme Auto Smart System is responsive and intuitive, while Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth and 4G connectivity come standard. The E2 has an advantage in everyday practicality, thanks to its generous 375-litre boot – expandable to 1 320 litres with the rear seats folded – and a useful 70-litre front trunk (frunk).
Power comes from an 85kW rear-mounted electric motor producing 150Nm of torque, paired with a lithium iron phosphate battery. Rear-wheel drive is unusual in this class and, together with the multi-link rear suspension, contributes to confident handling and a comfortable ride.
The suspension deserves praise; it absorbed Johannesburg’s uneven roads impressively well. Wind noise does become noticeable at higher highway speeds, but not enough to detract from the driving experience. Geely claims a WLTP driving range of up to 325km, and during my test, the figure proved realistic under normal daily driving conditions.
Charging is equally straightforward. I used a DC fast charger at The Pantry Sasol charging station in Rosebank, Johannesburg, where the battery reached full charge in 47 minutes after taking in 26.677kWh of electricity. The E2 supports DC fast charging of up to 70kW, making top-ups during shopping or lunch breaks entirely practical.
Instead of spending around R1 500 every week or two on petrol, many could see their monthly electricity bill fall within that range, particularly if they install the home wallbox charger included with qualifying finance packages.
Safety has not been overlooked. Six airbags, ABS, electronic stability control, traction control, hill-start assist, tyre-pressure monitoring and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems are all standard.
Priced from R339 900, with the flagship Apex model retailing from R389 900, the E2 also includes a four-year/150 000km vehicle warranty, an eight-year/200 000km battery warranty, a five-year/100 000km service plan and five years of unlimited roadside assistance.
So, which to choose? If you enjoy bold, playful styling and a youthful personality, the BYD Dolphin Surf remains an excellent choice. But if your priorities lean towards cleaner design, a more premium-feeling cabin and refined everyday comfort, the Geely E2 makes a persuasive argument.
- The market for South Africa’s most affordable electric vehicle (EV) has become highly competitive.
- Rising and unpredictable fuel prices are driving increased interest in affordable EVs.
- The battle for dominance in this segment is one of the fiercest in the automotive industry.
- Consumers are increasingly considering electric vehicles as a cost-effective alternative to fuel-powered cars.
- The full story is available in the Sunday World e-edition via Magzter.
Who would have imagined that the battle for
I recently spent a week with the Geely E2, courtesy of Geely
Launched locally in April, the E2 has a clear objective: to make electric mobility more attainable without forcing buyers to compromise on technology, comfort, or practicality. From the outside, the E2 takes a more restrained approach than its rival.
A closed-off front grille improves aerodynamic efficiency, complemented by slim LED headlights and a neatly sculpted bumper.
Inside, the Geely immediately creates a more premium impression than expected at this price point.
Technology is a strong point. Geely’s Flyme Auto Smart System is responsive and intuitive, while Apple CarPlay,
Power comes from an 85kW rear-mounted electric motor producing 150Nm of torque, paired with a lithium iron phosphate battery. Rear-wheel drive is unusual in this class and, together with the multi-link rear suspension, contributes to confident handling and a comfortable ride.
Instead of spending around R1 500 every week or two on petrol, many could see their monthly electricity bill fall within that range, particularly if they install the home wallbox charger included with qualifying finance packages.
Safety has not been overlooked. Six airbags, ABS, electronic stability control, traction control, hill-start assist, tyre-pressure monitoring and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems are all standard.
Priced from R339 900, with the flagship Apex model retailing from R389 900, the E2 also includes a four-year/150 000km vehicle warranty, an eight-year/200 000km battery warranty, a five-year/100 000km service plan and five years of unlimited roadside assistance.
So, which to choose? If you enjoy bold, playful styling and a youthful personality, the BYD Dolphin Surf remains an excellent choice. But if your priorities lean towards cleaner design, a more premium-feeling cabin and refined everyday comfort, the Geely E2 makes a persuasive argument.
