Geely Automobile will start manufacturing its high-end vehicles at Volvo’s European facilities beginning in 2028, according to newly appointed chairman An Conghui. This move marks a significant step in Geely’s overseas production strategy and follows recent leadership changes within the company.
Leadership Changes at Geely Automobile
On August 17, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group announced that Li Shufu resigned from his role as chairman of the board and executive director of Geely Automobile. An Conghui has taken over as the new chairman. Li Shufu will remain chairman of Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, the parent company of Geely Automobile.
An Conghui’s focus will include enhancing internal synergy at Geely Automobile, strengthening collaboration with the controlling shareholder, and supporting the company’s steady development.
European Production Plans
During the 2026 interim results conference, An Conghui revealed that Volvo’s European plants will play a key role in Geely’s local strategy. These facilities will be used for the production of high-end vehicles within the Geely Automobile ecosystem, with mass production scheduled to begin in 2028.
Geely Automobile Holdings currently oversees several brands, including Geely, Geely Galaxy, Zeekr, and Lynk & Co. Among these, Lynk & Co is recognized as a semi-premium brand targeting younger buyers, while Zeekr is positioned as a high-end brand. The main options for European mass production include the Lynk & Co 900, Zeekr 9X, and Zeekr 8X plug-in hybrid crossovers.
Volvo’s European Manufacturing Footprint
Volvo operates two vehicle assembly plants in Sweden and Belgium. Additionally, a new electric vehicle manufacturing plant is under construction in Slovakia, with mass production targeted for early 2027.
Geely has also formed a joint venture with Ford to manufacture vehicles at Ford’s plant in Spain, where production of two Geely-branded models is set to begin in 2028.
Geely’s Market Position and Sales Performance
In the first half of 2026, Geely Holding Group ranked seventh among the world’s top-10 automakers by market share, holding 4.6%.
The Geely EX2 (Xingyuan / E2) remained the company’s bestseller in the domestic market, with 226,465 units delivered from January to July 2026, although this represented a 9.1% decrease year-over-year.
Why this matters
Geely’s decision to utilize Volvo’s European plants for high-end vehicle production marks a notable expansion of its global manufacturing footprint. This strategy could strengthen Geely’s presence in Europe and support its ambitions in the premium and high-end vehicle segments.
The move also reflects Geely’s ongoing efforts to leverage its international assets and partnerships to enhance competitiveness in key markets.
What this means for buyers
Buyers in Europe can expect to see Geely’s high-end models, such as those from Zeekr and Lynk & Co, produced locally at Volvo’s facilities starting in 2028. This development may influence availability and model choices for consumers interested in premium vehicles from Geely’s portfolio.
Those considering a Geely, Zeekr, or Lynk & Co vehicle should monitor announcements regarding specific models and production timelines as the 2028 launch approaches.
Key Specs
- Production Start Date at Volvo European Plants: 2028
- Brands Under Geely Automobile Holdings: Geely, Geely Galaxy, Zeekr, Lynk & Co
- Volvo European Plant Locations: Sweden, Belgium, Slovakia (from 2027)
- Geely Global Market Share (H1 2026): 4.6%
- Geely EX2 Domestic Sales (Jan-Jul 2026): 226,465 units
- Geely EX2 Sales Change (Year-over-Year): -9.1%
Source
Images sourced from: geely.de, giltrap.com, vanreviewer.co.uk
