Geely Opens the World’s Largest Automotive Safety Center
Geely has officially opened what it calls the largest automotive safety research center in the world. The new facility is designed to study almost every aspect of modern vehicle safety, from classic crash testing to digital security and passenger health. According to Chinese media reports, the center has already received five Guinness World Records, underlining both its scale and its technical ambition.
The opening of this complex is strategically important not only for Geely itself, but also for the entire global automotive industry. The center was developed with the participation of Volvo engineers, which highlights the close technological cooperation inside the Geely Group and the focus on international safety standards.
Investment and scale of the new Geely facility
Geely invested more than 2 billion yuan, which is over 280 million US dollars, into the construction of the safety center. The total area of the complex reaches 82,000 square meters, making it the largest automotive safety laboratory by surface area worldwide.
The infrastructure of the center allows engineers to carry out 27 different types of safety tests. This figure significantly exceeds the capabilities of most existing crash test facilities and gives Geely the flexibility to simulate a wide range of real world scenarios. Both active and passive safety systems can be tested here, including advanced driver assistance systems, structural crashworthiness, and pedestrian protection technologies.
Technical capabilities and testing infrastructure
One of the most impressive elements of the new center is its testing hardware. The facility includes the longest covered straight crash test track in the world, measuring 293 meters. This allows engineers to conduct high speed impact tests with exceptional precision and repeatability, independent of weather conditions.
Another record breaking feature is the collision zone for angled impacts. With an area of 12,700 square meters, it enables vehicle crashes at almost any angle, closely replicating complex real life accidents at intersections or on multi lane roads.
The center also houses the longest aerodynamic tunnel with climate simulation capabilities. Its total area is 28,500 square meters, allowing engineers to test vehicles under different temperature, humidity, and airflow conditions. This is particularly important for electric vehicles, where aerodynamics and thermal management directly affect range, battery health, and safety.
Beyond crash tests: cybersecurity and health research
Unlike traditional safety laboratories, the Geely center goes far beyond physical crash testing. One of its key research areas is automotive cybersecurity. Engineers can analyze how well vehicle software and personal data systems are protected against digital threats. In an era of connected cars and over the air updates, this direction is becoming as critical as structural safety.
Another important focus is the impact of vehicle interiors on passenger health. The center studies materials, air quality inside the cabin, noise levels, vibration, and seating ergonomics. These tests help reduce long term fatigue and health risks, which is especially relevant for long distance driving and premium vehicle segments.
Cooperation with other manufacturers
Geely has confirmed that in the future it plans to open the testing facilities to other automakers. This move positions the center not only as an internal research hub, but also as a global platform for safety development. Smaller manufacturers or new electric vehicle brands may benefit from access to world class testing infrastructure without building their own facilities.
This approach could strengthen Geely’s role as a technological leader and increase cooperation across the automotive industry, especially in Asia and emerging markets.
Geely, Volvo, and global safety standards
The involvement of Volvo specialists is particularly significant. Volvo has long been associated with safety innovations, including the three point seatbelt and advanced crash protection concepts. By integrating Volvo’s expertise into this new center, Geely ensures that its vehicles are developed according to some of the strictest safety philosophies in the industry.
This strategy is especially relevant for global markets, where safety ratings from organizations such as Euro NCAP and IIHS play a major role in customer trust and brand perception.
Industry context and global competition
The opening of the Geely safety center follows similar moves by other global manufacturers. At the end of November, Volkswagen announced the launch of its first full scale research and development center in China, marking a shift toward localized testing and development in key markets.
For Geely, this new facility strengthens its competitive position not only in China, but also in Europe and the Middle East. As the brand expands internationally, including markets like the UAE, high safety standards become a decisive factor for customers choosing between rental and ownership options.
What this means for future Geely models
The launch of the world’s largest automotive safety center signals that future Geely models will place even greater emphasis on safety, technology, and digital protection. This applies to both internal combustion vehicles and the rapidly growing electric and hybrid lineup.
For drivers and renters alike, this translates into better crash protection, more reliable driver assistance systems, improved cabin comfort, and stronger data security. In the long term, such investments contribute to lower accident risks and higher overall vehicle quality.
