Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd., a prominent automotive manufacturer based in China, is reportedly planning a potential launch into the U.S. vehicle market within the upcoming two to three years, according to statements made by Ash Sutcliffe, Geely's Head of Global Communications. Speaking at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026, Sutcliffe indicated that the company might make an announcement regarding this U.S. market move sometime in the next 24 to 36 months.
Geely is known for its portfolio of automotive brands, including Zeekr and Lynk & Co., which Sutcliffe specifically mentioned as candidates for introduction to American consumers. However, the company has yet to provide formal confirmation or further details regarding the timing or scale of this prospective market entry.
It is significant to note that Geely holds a substantial ownership stake in the Swedish automaker Volvo, which itself owns Polestar Automotive. Polestar maintains automobile production operations in South Carolina, highlighting established manufacturing ties within the U.S. Despite these connections, Chinese automakers have historically faced substantial barriers to entry in the American market primarily due to tariffs imposed on imported vehicles, posing challenges for their electric vehicles (EVs) to achieve competitive pricing and viability.
These developments unfold in the context of Tesla Inc. — the leading U.S. electric vehicle manufacturer — experiencing a downturn in global sales. Tesla's reported deliveries in the fourth quarter fell short of market expectations, with a total of 418,227 vehicles delivered globally, representing a 16% decline compared year-over-year. Market-specific data reveal that Tesla's sales in Europe decreased by 12% in November alone, illustrating a pronounced contraction in one of its key international regions.
Conversely, Chinese EV exports have demonstrated robust growth. According to December figures, Chinese automakers shipped more than 199,836 vehicles overseas, accounting for an increase exceeding 87% in exports from China. European imports of Chinese-made electric vehicles rose by 63%, contributing to Chinese brands capturing a record 12.8% market share in the European EV segment.
Meanwhile, BYD Co. Ltd., another major Chinese electric vehicle producer, has surpassed Tesla to become the leading EV manufacturer globally by volume of vehicles delivered. Although BYD experienced a dip in sales during December, its overseas shipments remained strong, underscoring continued international expansion and competitiveness.
This shift in dynamics represents a significant development in the global electric vehicle market. Geely’s potential entry into the U.S. market, supported by its existing relationships and brand portfolio, could add new competitive pressures and alter the landscape amid Tesla’s current sales challenges and the increasing influence of Chinese EV makers internationally.