Geely EX5 Arrives in the UK – Rivervale’s First Look

Geely may be a new name to British drivers, but the group behind it is far from a newcomer.

The Chinese company already owns Volvo, Polestar and Lotus, has a majority stake in LEVC and holds investments in Smart and Mercedes-Benz. Its arrival in the UK market comes with the all-electric EX5, the first car to carry the Geely badge in the UK.

Rivervale’s Marketing Manager, Ben Freakley, was among the first to see the EX5 at a private preview earlier this year. His early verdict is that it combines premium quality with family-friendly design, advanced technology and a price point that promises to undercut rivals such as Tesla, BMW and Skoda.

The EX5 is set to launch in October 2025, but pre-production models have already given a clear picture of what to expect. With a usable 60.2 kWh LFP battery, the car targets a WLTP range of around 267 miles. Charging performance is strong too, with 30% to 80% available in just 20 minutes using a 100kW fast charger. Power comes from a 160kW motor driving the front wheels, delivering 0–62 mph in 6.9 seconds. Indicative pricing suggests a starting point close to £35,000, positioning it well below premium rivals.

Inside, the EX5 is designed with space and comfort in mind. A flat floor creates generous rear legroom, while touches like a hidden storage drawer under the rear seat and multiple storage cubbies add everyday practicality. Up front, the driver is greeted by a 10.2” digital cluster and a 15.4” central display running Geely’s Flyme OS. Higher trims bring luxuries such as a head-up display and seat massage. Materials feel closer to premium territory, with padded surfaces, faux leather “GeeLuxe” seats and wood-style inlays.

The EX5 has also been fine-tuned for UK conditions by Lotus Engineering, promising comfort on Britain’s challenging roads without compromising stability.

In terms of competition, the EX5 sits alongside the Tesla Model Y, BMW iX3, Skoda Enyaq and Peugeot E-3008. Its range and performance are competitive, yet it offers equipment that often costs extra elsewhere.

Our first impression is that the EX5 feels like it has been designed for real family life. It has generous cabin space, as well as technology that will impress younger passengers. If pricing lands as expected, Rivervale believes this could be one of the most significant electric launches of 2025.

For updates on finance options and availability, visit rivervale.co.uk.

Rivervale Acquires Concept Vehicle Leasing

On the 19th August  2025, Rivervale are excited to announce that they completed the acquisition of Concept Vehicle Leasing and Concept Fleet Solutions, expanding personal & business leasing and their FN50 Fleet footprint.

Concept has built a strong reputation in personal and business leasing as well as outsourced fleet management. The move brings extra scale to Rivervale’s growing FN50 fleet operation and means Concept customers will now have access to Rivervale’s wide choice of funders and manufacturer links. This will open up sharper rentals, faster lead times and greater vehicle choice.The addition of Concept’s fleet also brings further strength to its position and reassurance for clients.

Vince Pemberton, CEO, Rivervale, commented: “Concept’s award‑winning service, for both personal and business leasing customers, and fleet‑management technology are a perfect. By combining our contract hire and leasing divisions together and integrating Concepts fleet managed customers into our FN50 fleet operation, we unlock sharper rentals, richer choice, and faster lead‑times for Concept’s existing customers.”

All Concept staff based in Surrey will join Rivervale and continue to support customers. Concept founder Paul Bulloch will help with the transition before moving on to new projects. Paul said: After more than 25 years in the sector, this is both a proud and emotional moment. I’m incredibly grateful to our loyal customers, dedicated team, and industry partners who have been part of the Concept journey. It’s the right time and the right partner, and I leave knowing our customers and staff will be well supported in the future”

For more information about Rivervale and this acquisition, please visit rivervale.co.uk