Jakarta, Otodiva – Geely is now preparing to expand its portfolio by launching products with Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle technology (PHEV). The new model is called Geely Starray EM-i It is scheduled to launch officially on 29 October 2025, and is predicted to become a new magnet in the middle to upper hybrid segment.
This step marks an important strategy for Geely to strengthen its presence in the Indonesian automotive market, which is now starting to shift towards electrification. With increasingly fierce competition from brands like Toyota, Honda, under WORLD, Geely seeks to differentiate itself through a more sophisticated and efficient technological approach. Starray EM-i is said to carry an intelligent hybrid system called Super Hybrid EM-i (E-Motive Intelligence), which is claimed to be able to combine fuel efficiency, performa, and an environmentally friendly driving experience in one package.
This model previously stole the public's attention when it appeared at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2025. With futuristic design and promising technology, Geely Starray EM-i confirms Geely's ambition to challenge the dominance of old players in the hybrid SUV segment. However, Is the technology offered strong enough to face rivals that were previously popular in Indonesia??
The Most Efficient Machine in the World
One of the main advantages of the Geely Starray EM-i lies in the engine sector. The manufacturer claims that this car uses a gasoline engine with the highest thermal efficiency in the world, reach 46,5%. This figure puts it above the average for conventional engines and even rivals some hybrid engines from large Japanese manufacturers. This efficiency allows for more optimal fuel combustion, resulting in maximum power with more economical energy consumption.
Besides high efficiency, Geely also immersed SiC technology (Silicon Carbide) Intelligent Electric Control which functions to optimize electric power distribution. This technology keeps the car responsive even when the battery capacity is low, ensuring a stable and powerful driving experience in various conditions. With a combination of an intelligent combustion system and AI-based power control, Starray EM-i tries to provide a balance between performance and efficiency that is rarely found in its segment.
However, This claim will certainly be tested in the field after the official launch. Considering road conditions, weather, and usage patterns in Indonesia are different from their country of origin, real-world efficiency performance still needs to be proven. Even so, in theory, Geely Starray EM-i has a solid technological foundation to compete in the premium hybrid market.
Translucent Mileage 1.000 Km
One of the biggest concerns for electrified car users is mileage. In this case, Geely is trying to answer these concerns by presenting an SUV that is claimed to be able to travel more than 1.000 kilometers on one full charge of fuel and battery. The combination of the hybrid system makes the Starray EM-i able to utilize gasoline and electricity power alternately to maintain efficiency without sacrificing performance.
This model relies on an engine 1.498 cc four cylinder 16 valve paired with a powerful electric motor 214 hp, all built on the GEA platform (Global Intelligent New Energy Architecture). This architecture is the basis for Geely's development of electrified vehicles which are designed to be flexible and efficient in supporting various battery and electric motor technologies.
If the claim is proven, The Starray EM-i could be one of the hybrid SUVs with the longest range in its class. This has the potential to be a big selling point in Indonesia, considering that charging infrastructure is still not evenly distributed in various regions. For users who often travel long distances, The combination of petrol and electric motors certainly offers extra peace of mind without worrying about running out of power in the middle of a trip.
Safety and Price Prediction Features
Apart from focusing on performance and efficiency, Geely also pays great attention to safety features. Starray EM-i Sudah dibekali sistem L2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) which includes modern features such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), dan Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB). This system is designed to increase driver comfort and safety, as well as proof that Geely does not only emphasize engine technology, but also the overall driving experience.
In terms of interior design, Geely is known for its modern, minimalist approach which often prioritizes comfort and interactive features. Although the interior details of the Starray EM-i have not been fully revealed, the version shown at GIIAS shows a spacious cabin with a fully digital display and premium materials. This shows that Geely is trying to bring the impression of a sophisticated but still functional SUV to the Indonesian market.
With all these superior features, The biggest question of course lies in the selling price in the Indonesian market. If Geely is able to offer the Starray EM-i in a competitive range—between IDR 600 million to IDR 800 million—then this car has the potential to disrupt the Japanese brand's dominance in the hybrid segment. However, All of this will only be answered at the official launch at the end of October, where the public will see whether Geely can really deliver a smart hybrid SUV at a price commensurate with its promises.
