Geely is shaking up the electric vehicle scene with a trick that feels like it belongs in a video game. The Chinese automaker recently unveiled a prototype of its EX5 electric crossover equipped with a self-developed driving unit that gives each wheel the ability to turn a full 90 degrees independently. This wild technology allows the car to spin on the spot, slide sideways into tight parking spaces, and perform driving maneuvers that seem to defy physics.
On December 12, Geely released a video showcasing the technology in action. The system works by integrating compact electric motors directly into the wheels, a design that opens up a whole new world of vehicle motion. This setup allows for true omnidirectional movement, making today’s parallel parking struggles look ancient.
Mind-Bending Control and Agility
The core of this innovation is Geely’s new driving unit. In the demonstration, the EX5 prototype was controlled with a special glove, pointing to a future where owners could maneuver their cars from outside with a smartphone or smartwatch. Imagine nudging your car into the perfect parking spot with a simple gesture.
The video shows the EX5 executing a perfect 360-degree turn without moving from its position. Because the front and rear wheels can turn and drive in different directions, the vehicle achieves a “crab driving” mode, moving completely sideways. Geely claims this system also improves stability on slick roads and in heavy crosswinds, adding a layer of safety to its impressive maneuverability. While other automakers like BYD are pushing boundaries in battery tech, Geely is clearly focused on reimagining vehicle dynamics.
| Metric | Value | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak power | 160 | kW | 215 hp, single front-axle motor |
| Range (WLTP) | 430 | km | Equivalent to 267 miles |
| Battery capacity | 60.2 | kWh | Battery supplier not specified |
| Dimensions (L/W/H) | 4615/1901/1670 | mm | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,750 | mm | — |
| Starting price (China) | 107,800 – 179,800 | yuan | Marketed as Geely Galaxy E5 |
Is There a Catch?
As with any groundbreaking prototype, there are still some kinks to iron out. To accommodate the 90-degree wheel rotation, the rear wheel arches on the EX5 prototype had to be enlarged. This practical adjustment could significantly eat into the car’s interior and cargo space. The prototype’s windows were blacked out, leading to speculation that the rear seats might have been removed to make room for the hardware. It’s a classic engineering trade-off that Geely will need to solve before this tech hits mass production.
The Geely EX5: A Global Platform
The EX5 itself is an important model for Geely. It’s an all-electric crossover built on the brand’s GEA modular architecture, designed to be a key part of its overseas strategy. In China, it’s known as the Geely Galaxy E5, and in Malaysia, it is manufactured by Proton as the eMas 7. Its competitive pricing and solid specs make it a strong contender in the crowded electric crossover market.
Geely’s relentless pace of innovation is a hallmark of the modern Chinese auto industry, where companies are constantly experimenting with new technologies. From advanced driver-assist systems featuring LIDAR to novel battery chemistries, the competition is fierce. While Geely hasn’t announced a timeline for bringing this four-wheel steering system to consumers, it’s a powerful statement of intent. It shows that the future of driving isn’t just about straight-line speed but also about intelligent, flexible movement.
