At the vibrant Riyadh Motor Show, in the bustling halls of Kingdom Arena, we met with Mr. Alex Gu, Managing Director of Geely Auto Middle East. Amidst a showcase of automotive excellence, Geely stands out as a beacon of innovation and sustainability. We had the opportunity to delve into an exclusive interview with Mr. Alex to explore Geely's vision, strategies, and its expanding influence in the Saudi market.
Q: How significant is the Saudi market for Geely's global strategy?
A: The Saudi market is crucial to Geely's global vision. It’s dynamic, rapidly evolving, and keen on sustainable, innovative automotive solutions. This aligns perfectly with our mission to offer accessible, eco-friendly mobility, making Saudi Arabia a key focus in our strategy.
Q: The Riyadh Motor Show is a landmark event. What does this platform mean for Geely and the automotive industry?
A: The Riyadh Motor Show is vital for both Geely and the automotive industry. It allows us to showcase our latest innovations and connect with our customers. It also helps us gauge current trends and consumer preferences, guiding us to better align our products with market needs.
Q: How does Geely's global strategy influence its Middle East offerings?
A: Our focus on sustainable, innovative mobility globally shapes our offerings in the Middle East. We aim to cater to the unique demands of this market by emphasizing efficiency, technology, and design.
Q: Can you highlight the key innovations in the Emgrand Methanol?
A: The Emgrand Methanol showcases our commitment to alternative energy. It features advanced methanol fuel technology, offering an eco-friendly option without sacrificing performance. This car, along with our hybrids and hydrogen-powered vehicles, represents our shift towards clean energy. Innovation is crucial in our industry, especially in reducing CO2 emissions, a key concern in Saudi Arabia and globally.
Q: What is Geely's vision for the future of mobility?
A: We envision a future where mobility is sustainable, efficient, and integrated. Our focus is on electric vehicles, autonomous technology, and smart transport systems, aiming to create a connected, sustainable world. We’re committed to environmentally friendly production methods and sustainable operations.
Q: Post-2023, what challenges and opportunities do you foresee in the EV market?
A: The EV market faces challenges like infrastructure and battery advancements post-2023. These areas, while challenging, offer opportunities for innovation. The Saudi EV market is nascent, and we see strong prospects here. We're preparing for EVs to become mainstream and aiming to gain an edge in the Saudi market.
Q: How does Geely's design approach set your models apart?
A: Our designs blend aesthetic elegance with functional practicality. We focus on culturally attuned, user-friendly designs that incorporate advanced technology, distinguishing our models in the market.
Q: Can you elaborate on Geely’s commitment to sustainable manufacturing?
A: Sustainability is central to our manufacturing. We invest in renewable energy, minimize waste, and adopt eco-friendly practices. Our manufacturing approach reflects our commitment to the environment and societal responsibility.
Q: With Saudi Arabia hosting Expo 2030, what future models can we expect that will shift the automotive landscape?
A: Looking towards Expo 2030, we expect to introduce models embodying sustainable innovation and smart technology. These will include advanced autonomous driving features, offering safety, efficiency, and a new level of convenience.
Q: Could you explain the vision behind your new tagline, “See the World in Full”?
A: "See the World in Full" represents our aim to offer a holistic driving experience, embracing innovation and catering to diverse customer needs. It reflects our commitment to providing varied options for people with different wants and needs.
Q: Lastly, how does Geely plan to engage with the younger demographic in the automotive market?
A: We engage younger customers through digital marketing, interactive platforms, and vehicles that resonate with values like sustainability and innovation. Our models, such as Coolray and Tugella, are particularly popular among the youth.
Our conversation with Alex Gu highlights Geely's role in shaping the future of mobility. With a deep understanding of diverse consumer needs and a commitment to innovation and sustainability, Geely is poised to be a significant player in the automotive industry, especially in the dynamic Saudi market. We thank Mr. Alex for his insights and look forward to Geely's continued growth and impact in the region.