The Starship 7 isn’t just another Chinese import trying to make waves. It’s the plug-in hybrid version of the popular EX5 electric SUV, built on Geely’s proven GEA platform. Think of it as the best of both worlds – electric driving for your daily commute and petrol backup for those weekend road trips.
Under the hood, you’ll find a 1.5-liter engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 160kW (215hp) and 262Nm of torque. That’s enough grunt to get you from 0-100km/h in 7.5 seconds – respectable for a family SUV.
Range That Actually Works for Real Life
Here’s where things get interesting. The Starship 7 offers two battery options: a smaller 8.5kWh pack with 55km electric range, or a larger 19.09kWh battery providing up to 120km of electric driving. For most Aussie families, that larger battery means you could handle the school run, grocery shopping, and daily commuting without burning a drop of petrol.
When you do need fuel, the total driving range reaches up to 1,420km with fuel consumption rated at just 3.75L/100km. That’s seriously impressive efficiency that’ll keep your wallet happy at the bowser.
Pricing That Could Change Everything
While Geely hasn’t announced official Australian pricing yet, industry experts predict a starting price around $40,000, potentially undercutting key rivals like the BYD Sealion 6 ($42,990) and direct competitors.
If these predictions prove accurate, the Starship 7 could become one of Australia’s most affordable plug-in hybrid SUVs. That’s significant when you consider many families want to go electric but worry about range anxiety or charging infrastructure.
Technical Specifications Overview
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L 4-cylinder + electric motor |
| Total Power | 160kW (215hp) |
| Total Torque | 262Nm |
| Battery Options | 8.5kWh or 19.09kWh LFP |
| Electric Range | 55km or 120km (CLTC) |
| Combined Range | Up to 1,420km |
| Fuel Economy | 3.75L/100km |
| 0-100km/h | 7.5 seconds |
How Does It Stack Up Against the Competition?
The Starship 7 will compete directly with established players like the BYD Sealion 6, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, and Honda CR-V e:HEV. Each has its strengths, but the Geely’s potential pricing advantage could be its trump card.
The Toyota RAV4 remains Australia’s favorite family SUV, but it’s only available as a regular hybrid. The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV offers plug-in capability but at a premium price. The BYD Sealion 6 is newer to market and offers similar PHEV technology, making it the Starship 7’s closest rival.
What About Build Quality and Features?
The vehicle runs Flyme Auto operating system developed with Meizu, which Geely owns. Geely has committed to local suspension tuning for Australian conditions, just like they did with the EX5.
Fast charging capabilities are included, with DC charging from 30% to 80% taking just 20 minutes. That’s handy for longer trips when you need a quick top-up.
When Can You Buy One?
Camouflaged prototypes have already been spotted testing in Canberra and Sydney, with the official launch expected in October 2025. Geely plans to have 100+ dealerships across Australia and New Zealand, so getting your hands on one shouldn’t be difficult.
The Starship 7 represents more than just another car launch. It’s part of Geely’s ambitious plan to introduce six electrified vehicles in Australia by 2028, signaling the brand’s serious commitment to the local market.
For Australian families wanting to dip their toes into electric driving without range anxiety, the Starship 7 PHEV could be exactly what they’ve been waiting for. Competitive pricing, practical electric range, and excellent fuel economy make it a compelling package.
The real test will be how it drives on Australian roads and whether Geely can deliver the reliability and service support that families demand. But if early indications are anything to go by, the Starship 7 might just give the established players something to worry about.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will the Starship 7 be called by the same name in Australia?
A: Globally, it will be known as the Geely Starray EM-i, though the Australian name hasn’t been confirmed yet.
Q: How long does it take to charge the battery?
A: Using DC fast charging, you can charge from 30% to 80% in about 20 minutes.
Q: What warranty coverage can buyers expect?
A: While not yet confirmed for Australia, Geely typically offers seven-year vehicle warranty and eight-year battery warranty.
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