Geely has announced a high-profile partnership between its upcoming Galaxy M9 full-size SUV and Italian football legend Filippo Inzaghi. The former AC Milan striker has been appointed brand ambassador for the vehicle following a spontaneous test drive during the model’s street showcase in Milan. This moment sparked viral attention across Chinese social media platforms.

The event occurred on May 30, when the Galaxy M9 was displayed on a Milan street. Inzaghi, who was nearby, entered the vehicle for an inspection. A video showing him inside the M9 giving a thumbs-up quickly gained traction online. Fans noted several coincidences: Inzaghi’s iconic number 9 jersey, the M9’s name, and the model’s design connection to Geely’s Milan studio. Chinese netizens began calling on Geely to formalise the collaboration.

On June 10, Geely CEO Gan Jiayue invited Inzaghi to become the Galaxy M9’s brand ambassador. Two days later, Inzaghi confirmed the role via Weibo, stating he was honoured to represent the vehicle.

The Galaxy M9 is the first model to feature Geely’s Leishen (NordThor) AI Hybrid 2.0 EM-P powertrain. The system integrates a turbocharged internal combustion engine with all-wheel drive and uses AI to manage real-time torque distribution. The SUV delivers 0–100 km/h acceleration in 4.5 seconds, has a total range of 1,500 km, and achieves 4.8 L/100 km fuel consumption in charge-depleted mode. Moreover, the Leishen AI Hybrid 2.0 platform will be expanded to include a hydrogen-powered variant. This next-generation internal combustion engine will deliver a record-setting thermal efficiency of 48.15%.

The M9 is based on the GEA Evo architecture and is jointly designed by Geely’s studios in Milan and Shanghai. Its design combines a squared-off silhouette with a closed-off grille, matrix-style LED headlights, and a full-width rear light inspired by the rising sun. A roof-mounted lidar module supports Geely’s Qianli Haohan H5 intelligent driving system, which enables features like unmapped navigation assistance, high-speed emergency braking, and end-of-road automatic parking.

Measuring over five meters in length, the Galaxy M9 adopts a 2+2+2 seat configuration. Inside, it offers a 30-inch integrated display, a 9.1L onboard refrigerator, ambient lighting, and two 50W wireless chargers. The second-row zero-gravity seats feature massage, heating, ventilation, fold-out tables, and access to a ceiling-mounted screen. The third-row seats recline to 150 degrees and are accessed through a central aisle measuring 180 mm in width. The total interior area spans 5.2 square meters with an efficiency rate of 88.3%.

The cabin also features Geely’s next-generation AI voice assistant, which supports long-term memory and emotional interaction. The chassis includes dual-chamber air suspension, in-wheel motors, and GVMC (Global Vehicle Motion Control) for improved driving dynamics.

The Galaxy M9 is expected to enter the Chinese market in the third quarter of 2025 and expand into Europe and Southeast Asia. The model is projected to be priced between 200,000 and 300,000 yuan (approx. 28,000 to 42,000 USD), placing it below direct rivals such as the Aito M9 and Li Auto L9, which start above 45,000 USD.

As the first flagship under the now-independent Galaxy sub-brand, the M9 plays a strategic role in Geely Group’s high-end SUV push, complementing other models like the Lynk & Co 900 and Zeekr 9X. The Inzaghi partnership also illustrates a new model of automotive promotion: from an unplanned encounter to an official endorsement within days, generating over 500 million topic views on Chinese platforms.

According to Weibo polls, prospective buyers are most interested in the M9’s cabin space, hybrid fuel economy, and AI voice features. Inzaghi’s fans have also expressed enthusiasm for the vehicle’s Italian design heritage and potential use as a VIP shuttle at sporting events.