Renault Geely do Brasil has begun local production of the all-electric Geely EX2 at Renault’s manufacturing facility in Curitiba, Paraná, marking a significant step in the Chinese automaker’s expansion strategy in Brazil.
The EX2, the international version of Geely’s highly successful Yingyuan model in China, is being positioned as an affordable electric vehicle designed primarily for urban mobility.
Geely’s Best-Selling Model Expands Overseas
The Geely Yingyuan has become one of the most successful vehicles in China, regardless of powertrain type.
According to Geely, the model was China’s best-selling vehicle across all market segments in 2025, recording sales of 465,775 units.
The compact electric vehicle measures approximately 4.14 metres in length, 1.81 metres in width and 1.58 metres in height, with a wheelbase of 2.65 metres. It is around 15 centimetres longer than the BYD Dolphin Surf.
Geely launched the vehicle internationally in Brazil in late 2025 under the EX2 nameplate.
From Imports to Local Manufacturing
Initially, Geely supplied the Brazilian market through vehicle imports from China.
However, the company had already outlined plans to establish local production to strengthen its competitiveness and expand its presence in Latin America’s largest automotive market.
A key step in that strategy came in November 2025 when Geely acquired a 26.4% stake in Renault do Brasil.
The investment provided access to Renault’s manufacturing facilities and dealer network, enabling the partners to accelerate market expansion and local production efforts.
The two companies now operate through the Renault Geely do Brasil joint venture.
Production Begins at Paraná Facility
The Geely EX2 has become the first battery-electric vehicle produced by the joint venture at Renault’s Ayrton Senna plant in Paraná.
It is also the second Geely-branded model manufactured at the facility following the production of the Geely EX5 EM-i plug-in hybrid.
The move represents a major milestone in the localisation of Geely’s operations in Brazil and supports broader efforts to increase electric vehicle availability in the country.
Expanding Dealer Network
Alongside local manufacturing, Geely is continuing to grow its retail presence across Brazil.
While the company initially intended to leverage Renault’s existing dealership infrastructure, it has also been expanding its dedicated sales network.
Geely recently opened its 33rd sales outlet in the southern city of Caxias do Sul and plans to operate more than 40 sales locations by the middle of the year.
The automaker aims to achieve approximately 90% national market coverage by the end of 2026.
Strategic Investment in Brazil
Ariel Montenegro, President and Chief Executive Officer of Renault Geely do Brasil, said local production reflects the company’s long-term commitment to the Brazilian market.
“The production of the Geely EX2 at the Ayrton Senna plant represents far more than the localisation of a model. It is a strategic step for Renault Geely do Brasil, combining global technology with a strong local industrial base.”
“We continue to invest in Brazil.”
The start of EX2 production strengthens Geely’s position in South America and highlights the growing importance of local manufacturing partnerships as Chinese electric vehicle makers expand their international operations.