Geely Galaxy Star 6 EF: Price and Specs of Methanol Hybrid

Geely has officially introduced the Galaxy Star 6 EF, a mid-size sedan featuring an innovative plug-in methanol-electric hybrid powertrain. The initial pricing for early buyers ranges from 77,000 to 97,000 yuan, which is approximately equal to $10,800 to $13,600. Customers can choose from three distinct trim levels: the EF 130km Luxury Edition, the EF 230km Premium Edition, and the top-tier EF 230km Flagship Edition.

• The vehicle features a dual-fuel powertrain capable of running on methanol, gasoline, and pure electric power with up to 230 km of EV range.
• Equipped with a 1.5-liter 126 hp engine, an electric motor, and a lithium iron phosphate battery supporting any mixing ratio from 0 to 100%.
• The total combined driving range reaches up to 1,250 km with a full methanol tank and charged battery, extending to 1,880 km with gasoline.
• Dimensions are 4806x1886x1490 mm with a 2756 mm wheelbase, featuring a 14.6-inch infotainment screen powered by Flyme Auto 2.

Powertrain and Methanol Technology Details

The core highlight of the Galaxy Star 6 EF is its unique ability to operate on both methanol and traditional gasoline. The system allows drivers to refuel using any mixture ratio of methanol and gasoline ranging from 0 to 100 percent. The powertrain combines a 1.5-liter internal combustion engine producing 126 horsepower, an electric motor, and a lithium iron phosphate battery pack. Methanol fuel consumption with a depleted battery stands at 6.7 liters per 100 kilometers.

Geely states that the engine is engineered to successfully start at extreme ambient temperatures down to -40 degrees Celsius. Before entering the market, this technology underwent extensive testing across 7,000 test vehicles covering a cumulative mileage of 80 million kilometers. Braking performance is equally robust, bringing the car to a full stop from 100 km/h within a distance of 36.3 meters.

Dimensions, Interior, and Smart Features

Measuring 4,806 mm in length, 1,886 mm in width, and 1,490 mm in height, the sedan offers a spacious cabin backed by a 2,756 mm wheelbase. The body structure utilizes high-strength steel for 71.6% of its construction to ensure enhanced safety and rigidity. Acceleration from 40 to 80 km/h takes 3.4 seconds, while the 80 to 120 km/h sprint is completed in 4.6 seconds.

Inside the cabin, occupants are greeted by a large 14.6-inch central media display running the Flyme Auto 2 operating system, alongside a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Comfort features include heated and ventilated front seats with power adjustments. The trunk offers a generous 609 liters of cargo capacity, accompanied by a total of 27 clever storage compartments distributed throughout the interior.

Significance and Market Context

The launch of an affordable methanol-electric hybrid represents an alternative approach to electrification, particularly in regions where methanol infrastructure is viable. By combining long driving ranges, exceptional cold-weather starting capabilities, and low acquisition costs, Geely aims to capture cost-conscious buyers looking for versatile hybrid solutions. The vehicle marks another step in diversifying powertrain technologies for the modern automotive landscape.