Argentina’s automotive industry is undergoing a significant shift as electric vehicle (EV) sales surge. Sales of electrified vehicles increased by 88% last year compared to 2024, according to data from the Asociación de Concesionarios de Automotores de la República Argentina (ACARA).
The growth is largely driven by the entry of new brands into the local market, particularly those from China, expanding the available EV options. Geely, for example, re-entered the country last year, represented by Autos Sustentables del Sur, with the EX5, a fully electric (EV) C-segment SUV.
Beyond environmental benefits, EV ownership in Argentina offers concrete economic advantages. Electric cars registered in Buenos Aires are permanently exempt from vehicle tax. EVs are exempt from tolls on highways managed by Autopistas Urbanas (AUSA) within the city limits.
The Geely EX5 measures 4615 mm in length, 1901 mm in width, and 1670 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2750 mm. These dimensions translate to ample interior space, including comfortable rear seating thanks to a flat floor design.
The exterior design of the EX5 conveys a distinctly futuristic and minimalist aesthetic. The front eschews a traditional grille, resulting in a cleaner, more aerodynamic appearance, complemented by LED headlights that enhance the modern identity.
The model has also received recognition for its design, earning a Red Dot award, a prestigious accolade in the field of industrial design established in Germany in 1955, in the product design category.
The rear of the vehicle maintains the same modern and minimalist design language as the rest of the car. A standout feature is the LED light bar spanning the width of the tailgate, a increasingly common design element that enhances both visual identity and perceived spaciousness. The trunk offers 461 liters of capacity, expandable to 1877 liters with the rear seats folded down.
Notably, the trunk includes a temporary spare tire, rather than the repair kit commonly found in many vehicles of this origin. It also features a tire pressure monitoring system, with information displayed on the instrument panel.
Inside, the EX5 features a wireless charger, comfortable perforated synthetic leather seats, whereas only the driver’s seat offers electric adjustment with memory function. The steering wheel is adjustable for both reach and height, providing a good driving position.
In terms of technology, a key highlight is its 15.4-inch central multimedia display, paired with a 10.2-inch instrument panel. The central screen dominates the interior, consolidating almost all vehicle functions – from climate control and front seat ventilation to lighting management (which can be set to automatic, except for the high beams, controlled by a traditional switch) and driving modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport.
The vehicle also incorporates a 360° panoramic camera with surround view, particularly useful for maneuvering in tight spaces. This system can be activated from a button on the steering wheel, displaying the image on the central screen; that command is configurable and can be assigned other functions.
Below the screen, which responds quickly to touch and offers wireless compatibility for cell phones via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, is a wheel for controlling the radio or music volume, along with some physical buttons that facilitate the transition to this more digital scheme, which requires some getting used to.
A convenient feature is the automatic access and start system: when the key is detected nearby, the vehicle unlocks and the system activates when the doors are opened, without the need to press any buttons. To turn it off, you can opt to do so from the screen (perhaps the less practical alternative). However, if not manually locked, the vehicle closes and turns off automatically when you move away.
the front seats can recline fully, almost to a bed-like position.
Under the hood, the EX5 incorporates an electric motor delivering 217 hp, 320 Nm of torque, and an energy efficiency of 90%. This is noticeable, as with other vehicles of this type, in the quick response both from a standstill and during acceleration although driving, thanks to the immediate delivery of torque.
This allows it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds and reach a declared top speed of 175 km/h. Its battery is a Geely LFP Short Blade, with a range of 413 kilometers.
In terms of consumption, considering its battery has a capacity of 60.22 kWh, it recorded an average mixed consumption (with a predominance of urban use) of 11.5 kWh per 100 kilometers.
The driving experience is well-balanced and refined. The response is immediate and agile in the city, accompanied by precise steering that facilitates maneuvers. When pushed, whether on the road or highway, it offers good recovery for safe overtaking.
This is complemented by a well-tuned suspension, which effectively absorbs road irregularities and adds a plus of comfort, achieving a smooth ride without losing stability.
A key strength is safety, having achieved the maximum rating in Euro NCAP crash tests. It includes two front airbags, two side airbags, and two curtain airbags, traction and stability control, ABS brakes, EBD, brake assist, and electronic rollover protection, hill start and descent assist, a 360° camera, and multi-collision braking system (PIB), among others.
While it does not have a comprehensive package of driving assistance systems, it incorporates some, such as the multi-collision braking system (PIB) and cruise control, which in this case is not adaptive.
Finally, the model comes with a factory warranty of three years or 100,000 kilometers, whichever comes first, which is also transferable in case of a change of ownership while it remains valid. This year, the warranty will be extended to five years or 150,000 kilometers, according to the local representative, and China estimates that the change will take effect from April and will include all units already sold.
