Geely Starray EM-i gains bigger battery and longer EV range for soon-to-arrive model

Geely has updated its Starray EM-i plug-in hybrid SUV for the 2027 model year, introducing a larger battery pack and significantly longer electric-only driving range for the flagship Inspire variant.

The updated Starray EM-i Inspire now uses a 29.8kWh battery, replacing the previous 18.4kWh unit. As a result, claimed electric driving range has increased from 83km to 136km under WLTP testing, while total combined range rises to 996km.

The entry-level Starray EM-i Complete continues unchanged with the smaller 18.4kWh battery and an 83km EV range.

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Alongside the larger battery, Geely says DC fast-charging capability has also improved. Maximum charging speed has doubled from 30kW to 60kW, with the company claiming a 30 to 80 per cent recharge can now be completed in 16 minutes.

Combined-cycle fuel consumption for the Inspire Extended Range variant has also fallen from 2.4L/100km to 1.4L/100km.

The updated Inspire variant is priced from $41,490 before on-road costs, representing a $1500 increase over the previous version. Pricing for the Starray EM-i Complete remains unchanged at $37,490.

Additional equipment has also been added across the MY27 range, including a 5m Mode 2 charging cable, towing preparation hardware and trailer stability assist. Inspire variants also gain front-seat massage functionality.

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The larger battery was previously used in the Starray EM-i vehicle that completed a Guinness World Record fuel-consumption drive between Sydney and Melbourne earlier this year. During the attempt, the SUV recorded an average fuel consumption figure of 3.83L/100km over a variety of road conditions.

The Starray EM-i is one of several plug-in hybrid SUVs launched in Australia by Chinese brands as competition intensifies in the medium SUV segment. Rivals include the BYD Sealion 6, GWM Haval H6 GT PHEV and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.

Deliveries of the updated MY27 Geely Starray EM-i are due to begin in Australia from late May 2026.