Geely Acquires Radar Auto for RMB 218 Million – Electric Pick-up Brand Set for Stronger Global Expansion

Geely Auto has taken another major step in strengthening its new energy vehicle portfolio. The company has officially announced via the Hong Kong Stock Exchange that it will acquire all shares of Radar Auto's core operating entities for approximately RMB 218 million (approx. RM 142 million) in cash.

The acquisition includes Radar Auto (Shandong) Co., Ltd., Radar Auto Sales Co., Ltd., and its Thai subsidiary, Radar Thailand. Upon completion, Radar Auto will transition from an incubated brand under Geely Holding Group to become a wholly-owned subsidiary of the listed Geely Auto.

Radar or Riddara?

For Malaysian car enthusiasts, the brand is not entirely unfamiliar. Established in 2021, Radar Auto is Geely's dedicated new energy pick-up brand, focusing on "electrification + passenger-car comfort".

Unlike traditional work-oriented pick-ups such as the Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-Max, Radar targets lifestyle and multi-purpose usage with:

• Diverse scenarios: Outdoor adventures, glamping, and light commercial needs.
• Passenger-car comfort: Utilising a unibody chassis for significantly better ride quality than conventional ladder-frame pick-ups.
• Overseas branding: In right-hand-drive markets like Thailand, the brand operates as Riddara, with its first model being the pure electric Riddara RD6 (Radar RD6).

Strategic Integration into Geely's "China Star" Business

Following the acquisition, Radar Auto will be merged into Geely Auto's "China Star" pick-up business unit for unified planning and operation.

Industry analysts view this move as Geely's effort to fully consolidate its new energy pick-up assets. By bringing Radar under full ownership, the brand can leverage Geely Auto's stronger capital resources, global R&D capabilities, and extensive sales network — accelerating new model development and overseas expansion.

Implications for the Malaysian Market

The acquisition specifically mentions Radar Thailand, sending a clear signal of Geely's ambition in Southeast Asia.

The Riddara RD6 is already on sale in Thailand, where its strong electric range and powerful V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) function have generated considerable interest for camping and outdoor use.

As Geely's strategic partner, Proton is actively expanding its e.MAS electric sub-brand. With full control over Radar, there is strong potential for the Riddara RD6 to be introduced in Malaysia — either directly under the Riddara brand or as a locally assembled (CKD) Proton model. This could bring much-needed excitement and variety to Malaysia's rather monotonous pick-up market.

With the government pushing for EV adoption and a current lack of pure electric pick-up options, Geely's bold move on Radar is definitely worth watching closely.

Editor's Note

In Malaysia, pick-ups have long been associated with durability and low road tax. Can a stylish, pure electric pick-up like the Riddara change our perceptions of models like the Hilux and Ranger?

What do you think of this electric lifestyle pick-up? If it arrives in Malaysia priced around RM150,000, would you consider one for weekend camping trips?