Spy shots of a small electric hatch developed as the Geely EX1 — internally coded E211 — have surfaced on Chinese roads, and the car looks close to production-ready. Geely is expected to present it in China before the end of 2026, slotting a smaller, cheaper model beneath the EX2, which finished 2025 as China's best-selling car.
Pricing will be the obvious battleground. In Brazil, the EX2 Pro starts at R$ 123,800 while BYD's Dolphin Mini opens at R$ 118,990, and the EX1 is expected to fight in that sub-R$ 120,000 bracket as automakers race to field affordable EVs for global markets.
What stands out is the chassis hardware. Despite its budget positioning, the EX1 uses rear-wheel drive with an independent rear suspension, whereas the Dolphin Mini relies on front drive and a torsion beam. Power, battery capacity and range remain unconfirmed, but the architecture points to balanced city dynamics and refined impact absorption.
Styling departs from the rival's monovolume shape in favor of a raised subcompact hatch with a vertical face, short hood, flat roof and generous glazing. The cost-conscious cabin keeps physical switches on a raised console and slim two-tone vinyl seats that free up rear legroom. Exports will only be considered once Chinese sales are established.