Geely Launches Starray EM-R Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle
Geely has introduced the Starray EM-R plug-in hybrid in Thailand, offering 104 kilometers of electric range plus a range-extending engine for drivers not yet ready for full electric vehicles. The model features advanced tech including V2L p
Following the massive success of its compact EM2 electric vehicle with over 10,000 units sold in Thailand, Thonburi Noiz (part of the Thonburi Group), the importer and distributor of Geely vehicles, has not stopped at battery electric vehicles alone. The company has now introduced the Geely Starray EM-R, a plug-in hybrid that charges electrically, runs on 100% electric power, and features a range-extending engine—offering an option for those not yet ready to fully embrace pure electric driving.
To showcase the vehicle's performance and capabilities, Geely's team, led by Ajjima Wannapin (Marketing and Communications Manager) and Penpong Sookchoksiriphong (Brand and Communications Manager), organized a test drive a few days after the launch. They selected the Bangkok-Saraburi route, starting from the Geely flagship showroom in the Srinakarin area. Engineers briefed the team on the vehicle's specifications, particularly how the EM-R system works.
The EM-R technology is a 100% electric drivetrain that can be charged. When fully charged, it delivers a range of 104 kilometers. The engine then generates electricity to store in the battery and power the motor during low-speed driving. When the driver demands immediate power or high-speed acceleration, the engine directly drives the motor without routing through the battery, ensuring responsive performance. As speed decreases, power returns to charging the battery as normal.
The vehicle also features V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) and V2V (Vehicle-to-Vehicle) systems, supplying up to 6.6 kW to power electrical appliances during camping and even charge other depleted electric vehicles—effectively functioning as a mobile power bank for fellow EV drivers.
The design reflects SUV strength and power, featuring a Star Bridge-style grille that evokes an electric vehicle aesthetic. Full LED lighting includes headlights, daytime running lights, taillights, and a prominent third-brake light spanning the rear. A panoramic glass roof with electric opening and closing, plus powered sunshade, complete the exterior.
The interior features a sleek black cabin with electrically adjustable front seats and a ventilation system for rapid cooling, plus driver seat memory positioning. Three displays are fitted: a 10.2-inch LCD digital instrument cluster, a 13.8-inch head-up display (HUD), and a 15.4-inch HD touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Geely apps.
Safety features include Level 2 ADAS systems: intelligent adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, front and rear collision avoidance, lane-keeping assistance, and forward vehicle movement alert.
At departure, the battery showed 97 kilometers of range. After driving 80.1 kilometers, electric power was depleted while the battery still held 25% charge, at which point the engine started to generate electricity. The battery remained at 24-25%, preserving charge to prevent complete depletion—a key difference from pure electric vehicles. Although real-world electric range fell somewhat short of specifications, performance remained respectable.
