Geely Expands European EV Charging Network Through Strategic Investments
Geely Group acquires stakes in European charging networks to support Zeekr, Polestar, and Volvo EV expansion across the continent.
Geely Holding Group is investing in European EV charging infrastructure to support its growing portfolio of electric vehicle brands, including Zeekr, Polestar, and Volvo.
The Investment Strategy
Geely is taking stakes in charging network operators to ensure:
- Reliable charging access for its EV customers
- Premium charging experience aligned with vehicle quality
- Strategic locations across key European markets
Geely’s EV Brand Portfolio
Geely’s charging investments benefit multiple brands:
| Brand | Positioning | European Status |
|---|---|---|
| Zeekr | Premium Electric | Active in 4 markets |
| Polestar | Performance Electric | Active in 20+ markets |
| Volvo | Scandinavian Luxury | Established presence |
| Smart | Urban Electric | JV with Mercedes |
| Lotus | Luxury Sports | Eletre SUV launching |
Why Charging Matters
The 800V Advantage
Zeekr vehicles use 800V architecture:
- Requires high-power chargers (350 kW+) for full benefit
- 10-80% in 13 minutes with proper infrastructure
- Limited chargers currently support these speeds
Customer Experience
Premium EV buyers expect:
- Convenient locations
- Reliable equipment
- Fast charging speeds
- Clean, safe facilities
European Charging Landscape
| Network | Countries | Max Power | Stations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ionity | 24 | 350 kW | 600+ |
| Tesla Supercharger | 25+ | 250 kW | 1,500+ |
| Fastned | 7 | 300 kW | 200+ |
| Electrify Europe | Growing | 350 kW | 200+ |
Geely’s investments complement existing networks while ensuring premium access for its customers.
Zeekr-Specific Charging
Zeekr is also building brand-specific charging:
Zeekr Charging Network (China)
- 500+ stations in China
- 800V-capable
- Reserved for Zeekr owners
European Expansion
- Partnerships with premium networks
- Branded charging locations at dealerships
- Integration with Zeekr app
European Charging Strategy
Geely’s charging investments directly benefit European customers:
Zeekr Charging Access
- Partnerships with premium European charging networks
- Branded charging locations at dealerships
- 800V capability essential for Zeekr’s USP
Polestar Charging
- Leveraging Volvo dealer network
- Shared charging investments with Zeekr
- Premium positioning requires premium charging
The Bigger Picture
Geely understands that EV success requires more than good vehicles:
- Vehicles - Competitive products (Zeekr, Polestar, Volvo EVs) ✅
- Charging - Reliable, fast infrastructure ✅ (in progress)
- Service - Dealer/service network ✅ (via existing brands)
- Software - OTA updates, apps ✅
By investing in charging, Geely addresses a key customer concern proactively.
What This Means for European Buyers
Geely’s infrastructure investments demonstrate:
- Long-term commitment to European EV market
- Understanding of customer needs
- Willingness to invest beyond just vehicles
European customers benefit directly from Geely’s charging network investments.
Timeline
| Milestone | Expected |
|---|---|
| Expanded European charging partnerships | 2025-2026 |
| Zeekr branded stations in Europe | 2026 |
| Continued European infrastructure expansion | Ongoing |
For more on Geely’s brands, see our Geely Brand Overview.