22nd Jan 2006, 02:16
I did not pay for the car with US dollars, I only put a US price for the benefit of the readers. I do not think many readers are chinese.
22nd Jan 2006, 11:28
In some ways, I think there would be a market for this car in the US precisely because it doesn't have emissions control, computers, and power this-and-that. Like a 1970's or 1960's car, which does appeal to some people. Especially if it could be brought in at that $4,000 price tag! However, I don't see a car ever being allowed into the country that doesn't meet emissions standards at the very least. Let alone the fact that people have come to expect a lot of safety features as standard, such as airbags and anti-lock brakes. Probably people that would buy this car are already driving their vintage 1950s or 1960s car. Personally, I think there is some appeal to a car that is as simple as a 1929 Model A Ford, but I also think that we're too far past that. Glad that you're having good luck with it, and enjoying it though. I'm sure it's perfect for the more rugged driving conditions that you find in China. Thanks for telling us about it.
22nd Jan 2006, 14:46
Too funny!
Actually, a Geely was shown at the Detroit auto show this year and it is estimated they will be sold in this country starting 2008. They will have all the US mandated features (front airbags, safety cage, etc.) and will be affordable, but not $4000 affordable.
The Chinese will be the new Koreans as far as cars in this country, especially since brands like Kia and Hyundai (well, actually one company) are going more upscale (see the new Azera for proof).
30th Jan 2006, 13:50
Is the Geely an original design or is it a design from another manufacturer which Geely make under licence?
30th Jan 2006, 19:09
Geely is an "original" manufacturer as far as I know. That said, many Chinese car companies are getting in trouble as they simply build their cars to look exactly like the foreign competition yet using lower quality components. GM sued Chery over its QQ car that was a duplicate of Chevy's Spark (I think I got those names right).
In other words, they are pirating car designs.
26th Mar 2006, 11:15
I took a bit of a look at the Geely at the Detroit show. It had nothing going for it, but price. The quality of materials would have to be at least 5 times more to compete with even Kia, or Chev's (like the Aveo). I wish them luck, but they look to have a ways to go. Another thing, Malcom Bricklin I heard is running Chery. If he can make this successful in North America his reputation will forever be mended, best of luck to him, too.
28th Mar 2008, 23:53
I am from Costa Rica, Central America. Here in Costa Rica, Geely has begun to show up. As I was looking for a less than $8000 car, I have found Geely does it; a 2007 Geely is around $8000 to $9000 USD. That is a very inexpensive 2007 car. For you to compare, a Honda Civic 96-97 is around $7000 to $8000. Then, Geely in Costa Rica has to come from USA to comply with Costa Rica standards. Hope to own one soon, so I will be back with some helpful comments. Climb up Geely, Costa Rica is waiting for you!!!
21st Jan 2006, 19:26
What he meant by US4000, which is the amount he paid for his Geely is the US currency equivalency.