Geely Cars

Geely Cars07/12/2011
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Geely Cars from China are expected to hit the UK by the end of 2012

You may not have actually heard of Geely Cars.  Yet they are one of China's fastest growing car manufacturers. They already own the Volvo Car Corporation. Plus some other stuff, too.

The Geely International Corporation has now reached agreement with MBH (Manganese Bronze Holdings plc) to distribute Geely cars, to supply parts, and to set up a dealer network in UK.

These two companies are already working together in the UK, involved in making London Black cabs in Coventry.

Taking inspiration from the success of Korean brands such as Kia and Hyundia, Geely will be looking to make a similar impact on the UK market, beginning towards the end of 2012.

The first car to be imported is expected to be the Geely Emgrand EC7, a range of four door saloons and 5 door hatches with 1.5 and 1.8 litre petrol engines. Following that they are planning a new model range at least annually for the next four to five years. The pricing of the early models is expected to start at around the £10k level.

Not initially looking for huge volumes, a dealer network of about 40 outlets will be established ready for launch of the brand. The recruitment drive is aimed at small independant's, who focus on high levels of customer service. They will also consider sharing sites with other franchises.  Geely believe that the selection of the best partners at this time will be crucial to the success of the brand.

The Geely Auto UK headquarters will share the London Taxi Company facilities in Coventry, making available shared use of some of the back office functions that are already set up and established there.