Chinese automotive and technology giant Zhejiang Geely Holding Group has taken another decisive step toward integrating terrestrial and orbital mobility systems, successfully launching 11 new Geely LEO Satellites on August 11, 2025.
The launch, conducted from waters near Rizhao in Shandong Province, marks the fourth orbital plane deployment under the company’s Geely Future Mobility Constellation (GEESATCOM) program. All satellites have reached their intended orbits and are fully operational — a milestone that Geely says will accelerate the development of a globally connected satellite Internet of Things (IoT) network.
“This achievement reinforces our vision to build a seamless Earth-to-space mobility ecosystem that will redefine how people experience transportation,” said a Geely Group spokesperson. “Our satellite network will enable smarter, safer, and more connected mobility services across industries.”
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Expanding the Geely LEO Satellites Network
The Geely LEO Satellites are developed and operated entirely by Geespace, Geely’s commercial aerospace subsidiary. The company previously conducted three successful orbital launches in 2022 and 2024.
With this latest deployment, Geespace now operates 41 satellites, steadily moving toward its first-phase goal of 72 satellites by the end of 2025. In the next two months, the company plans to accelerate launches to have 64 active Geely LEO Satellites, enabling near-global IoT coverage — excluding only the polar regions.
The network is designed to serve multiple strategic sectors, from connected vehicles and urban air mobility to maritime operations, disaster response, and energy infrastructure. By linking vehicles, low-flying aircraft, heavy construction machinery, and maritime vessels to a unified satellite system, Geely LEO Satellites aim to deliver what the company describes as an “always-connected” IoT foundation with high reliability and broad reach.
Geespace has already partnered with telecom operators in more than 20 countries, including markets in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America. According to Geely, commercial trials have shown a 99.15% success rate and over 99.97% network availability — performance levels that bolster its credibility in the competitive global satellite services market.
“Reliability is critical for satellite IoT, especially for industries like emergency response and autonomous transport,” said Dr. Lin Wei, an independent satellite communications analyst based in Singapore. “If Geely LEO Satellites can maintain these success rates at scale, it could become one of the most important non-governmental players in the global LEO sector.”
Technology Applications of Geely LEO Satellites in Mobility
As a key pillar of Geely’s Earth-to-space strategy, Geely LEO Satellites leverage satellite IoT communications and high-precision mapping to enhance vehicle automation and connectivity.
This infrastructure feeds essential data into advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and connected vehicle platforms, improving both safety and convenience for drivers. Geespace has also developed proprietary satellite communication chips and precision positioning modules, which are already being mass-produced and installed across Geely Group’s product lines.
By integrating orbital data streams with terrestrial mobility systems, Geely LEO Satellites enable a multi-layered transportation network capable of real-time route optimization, predictive maintenance alerts, and location-based services that function even in remote or disaster-affected regions.
Showcasing Geely LEO Satellites at the World Games 2025
The Geely LEO Satellites will be showcased globally later this year at the World Games 2025 in Chengdu, where Geely is an official partner. The company will provide high-precision mapping and emergency satellite communication for official vehicles during the event.
This will allow organizers to manage fleets with real-time accuracy, coordinate logistics seamlessly, and ensure emergency support even if terrestrial networks are disrupted. Geely says the deployment will “set a new benchmark for transportation services at major international events.”
Strategic Importance in the Smart Mobility Era
The GEESATCOM initiative, anchored by the Geely LEO Satellites, aligns with a broader industry shift toward electrified, intelligent, and connected mobility ecosystems. The company sees LEO satellite infrastructure as a core enabler of next-generation transport solutions, particularly as vehicles become increasingly autonomous and reliant on continuous data flows.
“The fusion of smart electrification and satellite-enabled IoT represents a strategic leap for global mobility,” noted Dr. Arif Rahman, a Jakarta-based automotive technology researcher. “Geely’s dual role as a leading automaker and satellite operator gives it a unique advantage in shaping how future transportation systems will operate — not just in China, but worldwide.”
Beyond technical capabilities, the Geely LEO Satellites also underscore the growing competition in the LEO satellite market. Geely’s approach targets mobility-specific applications — a contrast to broader consumer internet services from players like SpaceX’s Starlink or Amazon’s Project Kuiper.
From Carmaker to Orbital Infrastructure Leader
Founded in 1997, Geely Auto has grown into one of the world’s largest automotive manufacturers, with operations in over 80 countries and a portfolio spanning internal combustion, hybrid, and electric vehicles. The GEESATCOM project, powered by Geely LEO Satellites, signals a major diversification, positioning the group as both a mobility infrastructure provider and a carmaker.
In Southeast Asia — particularly in archipelagic nations like Indonesia — the potential is significant. Geely LEO Satellites could deliver reliable connectivity for ride-hailing fleets, logistics operators, and maritime transport in remote islands, overcoming gaps in terrestrial network coverage.
Challenges remain, including satellite manufacturing costs, launch logistics, and regulatory approvals in multiple jurisdictions. Ensuring network reliability at scale will require sustained investment in both orbital assets and ground infrastructure.
Yet, Geely’s commitment appears firm. With the resources of Zhejiang Geely Holding Group behind it, Geespace aims to complete the first-phase constellation by year’s end, laying the groundwork for a global Earth-to-space mobility framework.
In summary, the latest launch of 11 Geely LEO Satellites is more than a technical achievement — it’s a strategic statement. By blending automotive expertise with aerospace ambition, Geely is positioning itself for a future where cars, ships, and aircraft operate in a seamlessly connected environment, linked not just by infrastructure on the ground, but by a network in the skies.
