New car inbound: Geely PH to launch Coolray-based subcompact sedan soon

MANILA: Local Geely distributor Sojitz G Auto Philippines (SGAP) announced that it will launch a subcompact sedan soon. Based on the teaser photos from SGAP, this model is likely to be the Geely Emgrand.  

The Emgrand shares a technical blueprint with the Coolray crossover, in the form of the B-segment Modular Architecture (BMA). The BMA is Geely's own modular platform, which means it can be used in compact cars, MPVs, and SUVs.

Considering the Emgrand's BMA platform, the sedan could be powered by the Coolray's 1.5-liter, three-cylinder engine. As for other specifications, the touchscreen infotainment and various convenience features from the crossover could be fitted to the Emgrand. 

Since the Emgrand is smaller in size than the Coolray, the former could be priced from P800,000 to P900,000. SGAP has not yet disclosed the Emgrand's specifications, price, or exact launch date.   

The Emgrand is built in Geely Auto’s 5G Connected Factory, which is capable of producing one car every 30 minutes.

The factory is highly automated with a 100% automated welding line, and a presence of Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) that constantly move around the factory to deliver car panels and parts to the different sections of the factory.

As the factory's name suggests, the AGVs are managed by a 5G  network that allows seamless communication between these robots and cloud services. Live information, inventory levels, production status, and the AGV locations can be monitored through the 5G network. 

“Our confidence in the decision to finally enter the challenging sedan market comes from the overwhelming support and trust we have been getting from the people for the past two years," SGAP President and CEO Yosuke Nishi said. 

"Not to mention the growing demand for entry level vehicles that started when the pandemic broke out,” Nishi added.

The SGAP leadership also expressed that the Emgrand will "usher in more excitement for the Geely brand," after the success of the Coolray, and introduction of the Okavango and Azkarra. 

Photos from Geely, Sojitz Auto G Philippines 

Also read: Geely launches Customer Care Hotline for sales, service concerns