Geely Galaxy E5 - Base For Proton’s First EV?

Geely has released official images of its new Galaxy E5, its first all-electric SUV in the Galaxy line-up. The Galaxy E5, which is projected to cost between RMB150,000 and 200,000 yuan (RM99,000 to RM131,000), will be released in the second quarter reported CarNewsChina.

The Galaxy E5 underpins the new Geely Electric Architecture (GEA), which is an extension of the Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) - the same base used for the the smart #1 and Lotus Eletre. This architecture can support a variety of powertrains, including EV, EREV, PHEV, and green methanol engines.

Geely refers to the GEA as the world's first "four-in-one AI intelligent architecture," which combines hardware, system, ecological, and AI tech.

In terms of size, the Galaxy E5 sits 4,615 MM long, 1,901 MM wide,, 1,670 MM tall, and boasts a 2,750 MM wheelbase length too.

The styling is comparable to the Geely Galaxy E8, evident with the use of a matrix light, closed grille and sharp headlights. Other notable touches include C-shaped accents on the front vents, panoramic sunroof, and flush door handles.

The SUV's rear has an integrated high-mounted brake light and a new through-type tail light arrangement with characteristic ripple-like segments. We can also see certain design cues akin to the Porsche Cayenne from certain angles.

While the exact powertrain specs are still kept under wraps, Geely has announced that the E5 will have an 11-in-1 intelligent electric drive system. The version registered with China's MIIT for certification features an LFP battery setup that powers a single electric motor with 160 kW (215 HP) that enables a 175 KM/H top speed. However, we are certain more variants with varied setups will be available when the product is launched.

Stepping inside, the Galaxy E5 features a simple cockpit design with a double flat-bottom steering wheel, a head-up display (HUD), full digital instrument cluster, and a large infotainment system powered by Flyme Auto software and a Dragon Eagle-1 7nm processor.

The SUV also includes modern features like OTA updates, wireless phone charging, heated and ventilated front seats with eight-point massage, and a 16-speaker audio system.

Now, with the launch of the Galaxy E5, could this set the foundation for Proton's first planned EV that’s supposedly set to launch by 2025? This is especially clear given that Proton recently announced the opening of a new R&D centre within Geely's headquarters.

Furthermore, as previously stated by Proton Deputy CEO Roslan Abdullah, the new EV would not be a rebadge, but rather an entirely new model created in collaboration with Geely. He also stated that the new EV has completed its design and prototype stages, and is presently in the testing phase of development. 

Somehow just this statement alone leads us to believe that the Proton upcoming EV, would most likely be a reworked Galaxy E5, not a simple rebadge job like the X and S series ICE models.