Chinese automaker Geely marks Philippine return with new SUV model

MANILA, Philippines — Chinese automotive brand Geely has announced its return to the Philippines through the launch of its sports utility vehicle (SUV) Coolray targeted for the millennial market.

Froilan Dytianquin, sales and marketing division general manager at Sojitz G Auto Philippines Corp. which was officially appointed as importer and distributor of Geely cars, told reporters the company decided to bring back the brand to the country to cater to demand in the automotive market, particularly for the SUV segment.

“Not all brands have a complete lineup. Only Toyota has an extensive lineup. Most of the brands right now do not have complete lineup and they cannot cover all segments. For us, the opportunity is there for small SUV. We would like to have Coolray as one of our models to compete in that segment which is a growing segment,” he said.

He said the company aims to sell 300 units of the Coolray this year, and ramp up sales to 2,000 units by next year.

Designed for the millennial market, the Coolray is available in the premium, comfort and sport variants, with the last one featuring panoramic sunroof and carbon trims.

The vehicle retails for P978,000 up to P1.198 million.

Dytianquin said after the Coolray, the company would be launching other Geely vehicle models over the next six months.

He said the company is also considering introducing hybrid vehicles to the market as Geely hybrid vehicles are already available in China.

“Readiness of buyers at what price is going to be crucial,” he said.

In terms of distribution, Sojitz currently has a showroom in North EDSA in Quezon City.

Dytianquin said the company is in talks with dealer partners for distribution of Geely cars in other parts of the country particularly in Cebu, Iloilo, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Alabang and Sucat.

He said the company would want to have 10 dealerships distributing Geely vehicles by next year.