In a hurry, Geely brings 5 thousand Chinese SUVs to Brazil in order to circumvent the new electric car tax

Chinese manufacturer brings record batch of Geely EX5 hybrid model to ensure competitive prices ahead of new import tax from July

Record landings of Geely vehicles are race against the increase in the import tax on electric cars in Brazil (Photos: Geely | Disclosure)
By Tom Schuenk
Published on 2026-05-07 at 11:00 AM
Updated on 2026-05-07 at 11:21 AM

The Port of Paranaguá registered a record disembarkation of cars that made clear Geely’s offensive in the Brazilian market. The Chinese manufacturer imported, at once, 5,101 vehicles, composed mostly of the EX5 EM-i. The arrival of the batch comes at a strategic moment: the brand is racing against the debut of a new import tax in Brazil, while preparing the ground for local production in partnership with Renault, in São José dos Pinhais (PR).

Geely’s haste responds to a window of opportunity: in July 2026, the unified rate of 35% for imported electrified vehicles comes into force, replacing the current rates that range between 25% and 30%. By guaranteeing this volume before the change in legislation, the automaker ensures an inventory capable of maintaining competitive prices and protecting its profit margins before the increase in the customs barrier.

Geely EX5 EMI Import Brazil

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What does the Geely EX5 EM-i look like

The medium SUV, built on the GEA platform, arrives to intensify the dispute between electrified SUVs such as GWM Haval H6 and BYD Song Pro and Song Plus. Its mechanical set combines a 1.5-liter engine aspirated to the electrical system, delivering 262 hp and 39,5 kgfm. With a wheelbase of 2.75 meters, the model bets on interior space, offering trunks of up to 2,065 liters with the seats folded down.

The EX5 will be marketed in three configurations. The Pro (R$ 189.990) and Max (R$ 209.990) options use an 18.4 kWh battery, with a combined range of 1.245 km. The top-of-the-line Ultra version (R$ 234.990) adopts a 29.8 kWh battery, bringing the total range to 1.300 km.

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