Small EV scuffle: Geely EX2 vs Dongfeng Nammi

In the current era of the Philippine automotive industry, the small electric vehicle (EV) segment has established itself as a powerhouse. It now has more than a dozen offerings available to the masses, so much so that it has already outpaced the subcompact internal-combustion mass-market hatchback category. 

This was made more evident by Geely Motor Philippines’ rollout of the EX2—known as “Geely Xingyuan” in China. Interestingly, the Chinese marque says this nameplate has become its best seller worldwide. As such, there is some expectation that it will also do well in the local scene. 

Then again, it does face some stiff competition, and one of these is the Dongfeng Nammi. On the surface, these two look similar. So, let’s find out here which is the better buy based on their on-paper specs. 

Powertrain

For its powertrain, the Geely EX2 uses a single permanent synchronous motor to drive its rear wheels. This motor is linked to a 39.4 kilowatt-hour battery (kWh). With the said setup, the EX2 can generate up to 113 horsepower (hp) and 150 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque. It can likewise provide a range of 395 kilometers (km), according to the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). 

Topping up the Geely EX2 can be done via a alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) ports. If done with DC, it can increase its state-of-charge from 30-80 percent in just 25 minutes. 

Comparatively, the Dongfeng Nammi is a front-wheel-drive, single-motor EV with a range of 430 km (NEDC) provided by its 42.3 kWh battery. It can also produce up to 93 hp and 160 Nm of torque. Charging the Nammi can be done via a Type 2 DC port.

Moreover, both of these EV models come standard with regenerative braking systems, a vehicle-to-load function, and a drive mode selector to better manage their power usage. 

The two also get four-wheel disc brakes and front MacPherson strut suspensions. Interestingly, the EX2 comes with a rear multi-link suspension, which is more advanced compared to the Nammi’s torsion beam rear suspension. 

Based on the figures above, the Geely EX2 has a good deal more motor output compared to its Dongfeng rival. On the one hand, the Dongfeng Nammi seems to have more torque while having a significantly better range. 

Here’s a table summarizing the mechanical differences of the Geely EX2 and Dongfeng Nammi:

Model	Geely EX2	Dongfeng Nammi
Motor Setup	Single PMSM
Battery capacity	39.4 kWh	42.3 kWh
Range	395 km	420 km
Drivetrain	RWD	FWD
Horsepower	113	93
Torque	150	160
Front suspension	MacPherson strut
Rear suspension	Multi-link	Torsion beam
Brakes	Front and rear discs

Exterior

Appearance-wise, both the Geely EX2 and Dongfeng Nammi get rounded designs that make them look cutesy. These two have short overhangs, fewer than a handful of sharp edges, minimal air intake vents, and a very recognizable four-door hatchback body style. 

The two does combine the aforementioned with keenly-designed bits that make then look modern and somewhat sporty. Key among these are intricately designed LED fixtures, semi-flush door handles, black plastic claddings, and a roof-mounted rear spoiler. 

Other exterior equipment available to the two small all-electric cars includes automatic headlamps, power-adjustable/folding side mirrors, and a manual trunk. For wheels, the Geely rides on a set of 16-inch alloys, while the Dongfeng uses a set of 17-inch alloys. 

For reference, here is a size comparison between the Geely EX2 and the Dongfeng Nammi: 

Model	Geely EX2	Dongfeng Nammi
Length (in millimeters)	4,135	4,030
Width (in mm)	1,805	1,810
Height (in mm)	1,580	1,570
Wheelbase length (in mm)	2,650	2,660
Curb weight (in kilograms)	1,300	1,430

Based on the figures above, the Geely EX2 is slightly longer and taller than the Geely EX2. The Geely, however, is a bit wider. 

A key point in the table above, though, is the large difference between their weights, which will, of course, have a significant impact on their handling and performance. To put it more plainly, the Nammi is 130 kg heavier. This potentially means that EX2, with its higher hp, will feel nimbler on curvy roads and on highway runs. 

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Interior

Inside the Geely EX2 and Dongfeng Nammi are neatly arranged and minimalist style interiors equipped with leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, ambient lighting, and automatic air-conditioning systems. 

Topping up devices inside these two subcompacts is done with USB ports or their wireless smartphone charging pads. 

For their drivers, both provide an electronic parking brake, a front cabin armrest, a leather steering wheel, keyless starting (smart key), and a digital gauge cluster. On the Geely, the said screen is sized at 8.8 inches, whereas the Dongfeng comes with a smaller 5.5-inch digital display. 

Handling on-board entertainment for the Geely EX2 is a 14.8-inch infotainment system linked to a six-piece speaker set. Connectivity to this screen is provided by Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

The Dongfeng Nammi, on the other hand, gets a 12-inch infotainment display, which again is smaller than the one on its Geely rival. Unfortunately, it does not have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and instead relies on other smartphone mirroring software. 

With the rear seats folded down, the Dongfeng Nammi offers up to 945 liters of cargo space. This is dwarfed by the Geely EX2’s maximum capacity of 1,320 liters. 

Safety 

For passive safety, the Geely EX2 and Dongfeng Nammi each get their own array of passive and active features. 

Concerning their passive safety kits, these two EVs get anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, a 360-degree view camera with transparent chassis mode, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, hill-start assist, ISOFIX, and tire pressure monitoring. 

Unique to the EX2 is a low-speed chime to warn other road users of its presence. Moreover, the Geely nameplate comes with a total of six airbags compared to the Dongfeng’s dual front airbags. 

Regarding active safety gear, here are lists for both the Geely EX2 and Dongfeng Nammi: 

Geely EX2	Dongfeng Nammi
Adaptive cruise control Automatic emergency braking Lane departure warning Forward collision warning Intelligent high beams	Automatic emergency braking Traffic jam assist Intelligent high beam control Lane keep and centering assist Adaptive cruise control Forward collision warning Highway assist Automated park assist

Final thoughts

Based on the features and specifications we’ve listed above, it appears that the Geely EX2 outclasses the Dongfeng Nammi when it comes to horsepower, range, passive safety gear, and cargo space. Not a bad start for the Geely. 

However, the Dongfeng Nammi does have a bit more torque and heaps more advanced driver-assist systems (ADAS). 

So, for something that is potentially more fun but also better at hauling stuff around as a daily driver, you might want to go for the Geely EX2. Those wanting a more comprehensive safety kit, however, should lean more towards the Dongfeng Nammi. 

On the one hand, the Dongfeng Nammi retails at P1.238 million, which carries a large premium over the Geely EX2’s suggested retail price of P1.038 million (top-spec Max). 

Also read:

First impressions: Geely EX2

3 biggest reasons to buy the Geely EX2

Geely Motor PH to start releasing EX2 units tomorrow

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