Australia’s electric vehicle market is set for a significant shake-up this month with the official pricing and specifications announcement for the Geely EX2 electric hatchback. Arriving in dealerships nationwide from late July 2026, the EX2 will start from just AUD$26,490 plus on-road costs, positioning it as the country’s second-cheapest new EV, directly challenging the BYD Atto 1.
The arrival of the Geely EX2 underscores the intensifying competition in Australia’s affordable EV segment, driven largely by new entrants from China. This new model offers consumers a more accessible entry point into electric vehicle ownership, a critical factor as the nation’s EV uptake continues to accelerate.
Geely EX2 Pricing and Launch Offer
Geely Auto Australia confirmed the EX2 will be available in two variants, both designed to offer strong value to Australian buyers. The entry-level EX2 Complete starts at AUD$26,490 plus on-road costs, while the higher-specification EX2 Inspire is priced from AUD$30,990 plus on-road costs.
To mark its Australian debut, Geely is offering a compelling launch package for customers who order and take delivery of an EX2 between July 12 and August 31, 2026. This promotion includes a complimentary 7kW home EV charger and a premium paint upgrade, valued at up to AUD$600.
“The Geely EX2’s aggressive pricing and comprehensive launch offer are set to make a significant impact on Australia’s burgeoning EV market, providing a practical and affordable option for many first-time electric car buyers.”
Challenging the Cheapest EV Crown: EX2 vs. Atto 1
While the BYD Atto 1 currently holds the title of Australia’s cheapest new EV, starting from AUD$23,990 plus on-road costs, the Geely EX2 aims to differentiate itself with a larger, five-seat configuration and a rear-wheel-drive platform. The Atto 1 is a four-seat, front-wheel-drive model.
Here’s a direct comparison of the entry-level variants:
| Feature | Geely EX2 Complete (2026) | BYD Atto 1 Essential (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | AUD$26,490 + ORCs | AUD$23,990 + ORCs |
| Seats | 5 | 4 |
| Drive Type | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Battery (LFP) | 35.3 kWh | 39 kWh |
| WLTP Range | 252 km | 220 km |
| Motor Power | 60 kW / 150 Nm | 65 kW / 175 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h | 14.2 seconds | 11.1 seconds |
| DC Charging | Up to 60 kW | Up to 40 kW (est.) |
The EX2 Inspire variant further boosts specifications, featuring a larger 47.1kWh LFP battery, an 85kW/150Nm electric motor, and a claimed WLTP driving range of 345km. It also supports faster 80kW DC charging, compared to the Complete’s 60kW capability. Additional features on the Inspire include 16-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats and steering wheel, wireless phone charging, and a surround-view camera system.
Notably, the Geely EX2 is built on the same ‘Global Intelligent New Energy Architecture’ (GEA) platform as its larger EX5 and Starray siblings, and uniquely for this segment, features multi-link independent rear suspension. This is often associated with improved ride comfort and handling compared to the torsion-beam setups found in some rivals like the BYD Atto 1 and MG4 Urban.
With a generous 70-litre front boot (frunk), the EX2 also offers practical storage solutions, a feature not always found in compact EVs.
Broader Market Impact and Affordability Trends
The introduction of the Geely EX2 reflects a broader trend of increasing affordability and choice in the Australian EV market. This influx of competitively priced models, particularly from Chinese manufacturers, is directly addressing one of the primary barriers to EV adoption: upfront cost.
June 2026 saw record-breaking EV sales in Australia, with battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounting for 23.3% of all new vehicles sold nationally. When including plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), the total plug-in market share reached 35.8% of new passenger car sales.
This surge in sales highlights a “structural shift” in the Australian automotive market, driven by consumer demand for cheaper-to-run vehicles amid volatile petrol prices and growing environmental awareness.
For Australian households looking to reduce their running costs and embrace sustainable transport, the growing availability of affordable EVs like the Geely EX2 is a welcome development. Pairing an EV with a home solar system can further reduce operational expenses significantly. For more information on maximising these savings, consider reading our guide on Optimise EV Charging with Solar This Winter 2026: Max Savings Guide.
The Geely EX2, known as the Geome Xingyuan in China, was the country’s best-selling car of any type in 2025, with over 459,000 units delivered. Its proven success in a highly competitive market suggests it could quickly become a popular choice for Australian consumers seeking value and practicality in an electric car.
As the market continues to evolve, the focus on accessible pricing and practical features will be crucial in driving Australia’s transition to an electrified transport future.