Geely EX5 EM-i rolls off the production line in Brazil for the first time
Geely is expanding its presence in Latin America and is now producing the EX5 EM-i locally in Brazil. The first vehicle has rolled off the production line at the modernized Ayrton Senna Industrial Complex, which Geely uses as part of its partnership with Renault.
The electrified SUV is scheduled to launch in Brazil before the end of 2026. For Geely, this marks the first tangible production milestone in its partnership with Renault in the country.
Local production gives Geely faster access to the Brazilian market, while allowing Renault to make better use of its plants and distribution infrastructure.
Renault plant converted for Geely’s GEA platform
The plant was modernized for Geely’s Global Intelligent Electric Architecture, or GEA. The platform is not limited to a single powertrain type and can accommodate internal combustion engines, flex-fuel hybrids and fully electric vehicles.
This flexibility is particularly relevant in Brazil, where ethanol and various hybrid concepts continue to play an important role alongside battery-electric vehicles. A shared technical foundation makes it easier for both manufacturers to adapt models to regional requirements.
Geely gains access to production and distribution
The foundation for the partnership was laid in November 2025. Geely Holding and Geely Auto were to jointly acquire a 26.4% stake in Renault do Brasil, while Renault would retain control of the company.
This gives Geely access to existing industrial and commercial infrastructure. Renault, in turn, gains access to the GEA architecture, allowing it to expand its Brazilian range of low-emission and locally zero-emission vehicles.
Production launch for the Geely EX2 remains unclear
The electric EX2 small car is set to be the next model produced at the same plant. The latest announcement names December 2026 as the start of production.
However, Geely had already stated in June that local series production of the EX2 had begun. The two statements are inconsistent. The earlier announcement may have referred to pre-series production, but this explanation has not yet been confirmed.
International business growing significantly faster
The production launch comes amid strong international growth. In August 2026, Geely Auto sold 110,094 vehicles outside China, an increase of 205.16% compared with the same month a year earlier.
| Period | Sales | Change |
|---|---|---|
| International sales in August 2026 | 110,094 vehicles | up 205.16% |
| International sales from January to August 2026 | 690,985 vehicles | up 170.48% |
| Total sales from January to August 2026 | 1,943,313 vehicles | up 2.44% |
This means the international business is growing substantially faster than the group as a whole. Local plants can support this trajectory by shortening transport routes, integrating regional supply chains and reducing potential import barriers.
What the partnership means for Europe
Brazilian production does not imply that the EX5 EM-i will launch in Germany, Austria or Switzerland. However, the partnership demonstrates how Geely is increasingly taking its technology global through partnerships and existing production networks.
In Europe, the group is simultaneously pursuing its own product offensive. This includes the announced Geely E2 for under €20,000, while Renault is expanding its electric small-car range around the Renault 5.
For the DACH market—Germany, Austria and Switzerland—the industrial model behind the project therefore matters more than the Brazilian EX5 EM-i itself. Shared platforms, local production and established distribution networks could significantly accelerate Geely’s international expansion.
