Recently, we talked about the July Tax Cliff and why locking in a full Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) is the “Gold Medal” for tax savings. But let’s be real: for some Aussies, “Range Anxiety” is still a very loud voice in the back of the head, and “Apartment Anxiety” makes plugging in every night feel like a chore.
Enter the Geely Starray EM-i.
Launched as a direct disruptor to the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, the Starray EM-i is what Geely calls a “Super Hybrid.” It’s the perfect “Silver Medal” for those who aren’t ready to go 100% electric but are tired of the petrol pump “squeeze.”
1. The “Safety Blanket” Metric: 943km Range
The biggest barrier for regional Aussies isn’t the car—it’s the distance. The Starray EM-i offers a 943km combined WLTP range.
- The Math: You can drive from Sydney to Melbourne on a single tank and a single charge, with range to spare for a coffee run in St Kilda.
- The Daily Drive: It has an 83km Pure EV range. If your commute is under 40km (like most Australians), you can drive to work and back on $1.50 of electricity, only ever seeing a petrol station on long weekend trips to the coast.
2. The V2L “Portable Powerhouse” (6.6kW!)
Here is a spec that actually beats its pure-electric sibling, the EX5. While most EVs offer 3.3kW of Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) power, the Starray EM-i delivers a massive 6.6kW output.
- What that means in 2026: You can run a coffee machine, a camping fridge, and a hair dryer at the same time off the car’s battery. It’s effectively a 19kWh mobile power bank for your weekend off-grid adventures or home blackouts.
3. The “February Squeeze” Pricing: $39,990 Driveaway
As of February 2026, Geely has fired a massive shot across the bow of the established brands. The Starray EM-i Complete is currently listed at a promotional $39,990 Driveaway.
- The Comparison: That’s nearly $10,000 cheaper than a mid-spec RAV4 Hybrid, yet it offers more tech (15.4-inch HD screen) and the ability to drive as a pure EV.
4. The Strategy: PHEV vs. BEV in the Tax Era
A quick “Reality Check” on the taxes: Since the April 2025 FBT Sunset, PHEVs like the Starray no longer qualify for the 0% FBT exemption that full BEVs (like the EX5) enjoy.
So why buy it?
- Low Entry Cost: The $10k–$15k you save upfront compared to a premium BEV often offsets the lost tax benefit over the first three years.
- Infrastructure Independence: If you live in an apartment with no charger, you can still drive this as a highly efficient hybrid (2.4L/100km) while the kerbside charging network catches up.
Verdict: Is it for you?
If your 2026 strategy is “Maximum Tax Savings,” go for the Geely EX5.
But if your strategy is “Zero Range Anxiety + Maximum Utility,” the Starray EM-i is the smartest bridge to the future currently on the Australian market.
Ask EV AI Agent
“Hey, compare the Starray EM-i vs. the RAV4 Hybrid for my postcode.” Our AI Strategy Agent is updated with the latest Feb 2026 fuel prices and Geely dealer stock. Ask it to run a 3-Year Cost Audit to see if the “Super Hybrid” math works for your specific lifestyle.
About EV Evolution
EV Evolution is Australia’s authoritative strategic platform for electric vehicle market, dedicated to providing a high-fidelity knowledge base for the next generation of drivers. In a year defined by the Federal statutory review of FBT exemptions and the rapid arrival of record-breaking affordable models, we serve as your professional co-pilot to ensure every automotive decision is data-driven and future-proof. Our EV Strategy Suite—including the EV Tax Savings Estimator, Vibe Check Tool, and 24/7 AI Strategy Agent—empowers young professionals and families to navigate complex technical and regulatory shifts with total transparency. At EV Evolution, we don’t just track the market, we provide the strategic roadmap for your transition to the new electric standard
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