Onboard Technology: Innovations in the Geely Starray EM-i and Jaecoo 7SHS

Onboard Technology and usability: the combination that defines the modern experience in electrified compact SUVs. In this article we compare in detail the electronic, driver-assistance, connectivity and entertainment solutions of the Geely Starray EM-i and the Jaecoo 7SHS, two offerings that arrive with ambition in Europe and Spain. The goal is to identify which car delivers a more coherent implementation: from driver-assistance systems and sensor hardware to the multimedia interface, OTA updates and smartphone integration capabilities.

Today’s purchase decisions weigh efficiency as much as the in-car experience. In this context, the presence of advanced features and their real-world tuning make the difference. The evaluation below combines information from official specifications and public tests, along with the evolution of the European market: according to ANFAC, demand for electrified powertrains has grown steadily in recent years, so understanding the technology on offer is key for anyone looking for a modern and functional car.

The most balanced models in the segment in 2026

The selection has been guided by the balance between technological ambition and its practical execution: reliable sensors and assistance systems, an intuitive interface, sound quality and update methods. The acquisition cost and the relevance of each feature in daily use are also considered. In this way, the aim is to answer the central question: which offering delivers a truly advanced Onboard Technology experience without complicating everyday operation?

Geely Starray EM-i

The Geely Starray EM-i combines generous hardware with a software layer geared toward comfort. Its driver aids integrate lidar sensors (in some versions), cameras and radar that enable a complete ADAS suite: adaptive cruise control with stop&go, lane-keeping assist and semi-automatic parking functions. The main interface relies on a large central screen and a configurable digital instrument cluster; smartphone integration includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and, in the higher versions, proprietary connectivity with telematics data for remote services and diagnostics.

In terms of entertainment, the multimedia system offers OTA updates and a proprietary app ecosystem that improves over time, along with special attention to audio and menu ergonomics. In terms of assistance, the tuning tends to prioritise comfort over aggressive interventions, favouring a less intrusive experience in town and on motorways. The electrified offering keeps the thermal management of the battery and the climate control consistent in order to preserve real-world efficiency.

The best

• Broad ADAS suite that intervenes conservatively.
• Multimedia interface with OTA updates and proprietary ecosystem.
• Telematics integration for diagnostics and remote services.

Room for improvement

• Learning curve for some advanced menus.
• Dependence on the version to access lidar sensors.

The answer that leads: the Geely Starray EM-i

Which technological offering provides the best balance between assistance systems and connectivity? The Geely Starray EM-i stands out for its balanced ADAS implementation and its multimedia ecosystem with OTA updates, which bring functional improvements without sacrificing ergonomics.

score out of 10 based on the criteria analysed in this article

Jaecoo 7SHS

The Jaecoo 7SHS arrives with an aggressive approach to hardware and assistance systems, with particular emphasis on multiple sensors (redundant radars and cameras) and a commitment to assisted driving on motorways. Its multimedia interface combines a central screen and a digital panel, with menus geared toward personalisation. Jaecoo includes connectivity features such as on-route assistance, remote updates and links to third-party services. The intention is to offer a premium experience at a competitive cost.

In practice, the ability to expand the assistance package stands out, but in some cases the response of the systems can be more intrusive in urban manoeuvres than that of its rival. The entertainment section is competent, with a focus on audio quality and user settings, although the coherence between hardware and software may vary depending on the market version.

The best

• Broad, redundant sensor hardware.
• Advanced assistance packages standard on high versions.
• Good level of connectivity and on-route services.

Room for improvement

• ADAS tuning somewhat more intrusive in urban traffic.
• Interface with different experiences depending on version.

The answer that leads: the Jaecoo 7SHS

Which SUV offers the most complete driver aids as standard? The Jaecoo 7SHS opts for more generous ADAS equipment in its launch offering, making it an interesting choice for anyone who prioritises standard assistance systems.

score out of 10 based on the criteria analysed in this article

Quick technical comparison of the Top 2

Both contenders offer robust solutions, but with different philosophies: the Starray EM-i prioritises user experience and progressive intervention from its assistants, while the Jaecoo 7SHS focuses on equipment and redundancy. The main difference lies in the software tuning and in how advanced features translate to everyday use. For those who cover many kilometres on motorways, the fidelity of the assistants and the stability of energy management will be decisive; for urban use, the smoothness and predictability of the aids will be the deciding factor.

score out of 10 based on the criteria analysed in this article

Which car to buy according to your profile

If you mostly drive in the city

Prioritise an assistance system with gentle interventions and good connectivity for urban navigation. In this scenario, the coherence of the Onboard Technology and the ergonomics of the multimedia system are decisive; the Geely Starray EM-i tends to offer a more restrained experience in urban traffic.

If you travel frequently

Look for adaptive cruise control and systems capable of keeping the vehicle in its lane on motorways with precision. The Jaecoo 7SHS stands out for its ADAS equipment and sensor redundancy, which provides peace of mind on long journeys.

If you are looking for the best price

Analyse the standard equipment and the versions: models with greater technological equipment can offset the initial difference if practical results and OTA updates are included. Comparing the list of features and the official specification sheet is essential.

If you prioritise technology

Assess OTA update capability, telematics integration and the quality of the app ecosystem. Both cars offer competitive solutions, but the choice will depend on whether you prefer a more polished experience or a wider standard specification.

Frequently asked questions

What differentiates the ADAS systems of the two cars?

The main difference lies in philosophy: the Starray EM-i prioritises gentle interventions and comfort, while the Jaecoo 7SHS prioritises redundancy and functional reach on motorways. Real effectiveness depends on the version and local tuning.

Can their systems be updated over the air?

Yes, both manufacturers have incorporated remote update capabilities in several versions, allowing functions to be improved and errors corrected without a workshop visit, according to the official specification sheets.

How do these technologies affect consumption?

Climate control management, energy recovery and driving mode all have an influence. Proper integration between software and hardware helps maintain real-world efficiency within the margins announced by the manufacturer.

What level of mobile connectivity do they offer?

They offer Android Auto and Apple CarPlay across much of the range; the higher versions include proprietary connectivity with cloud services, assistance and remote diagnostics.

Are the assisted driving functions safe?

They are safe when used within their limitations: both brands recommend constant supervision by the driver and respecting the conditions of use described in the official documentation.

Expert opinion

Beyond spec sheets and promises, the choice between the Geely Starray EM-i and the Jaecoo 7SHS comes down to the priority each buyer gives to the technological experience versus standard equipment. The Starray EM-i stands out for the coherence of its interface and the smoothness of its assistant interventions, which makes it more comfortable in urban environments and for users who want a less intrusive experience. The Jaecoo 7SHS, for its part, offers a more ambitious approach in sensors and assistants, which is interesting for those who drive many kilometres on motorways and prioritise robust assistance from the first trim level. As for connectivity and functional maintenance, OTA updates and telematics integration are elements that level the playing field: those who value software evolution over time will prefer brands that guarantee periodic updates. For those on a tight budget looking for immediate value, it is advisable to compare the versions carefully and check which ADAS and comfort features are truly standard. If the priority is a natural and predictable driving experience in the city, the Starray EM-i seems the better fit; if the need is for assistance and redundancy from the outset, the Jaecoo 7SHS offers a powerful alternative. In any case, a road test and verification of the official specification sheet and commercial conditions in Spain are indispensable steps before deciding.

The market offers close alternatives such as the Hyundai Kona or the Kia Niro for their balance of price and technology, and proposals such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 or the Tesla Model Y serve as references for electric system implementation and advanced connectivity. The final choice will depend on real-world use and on how each driver values the integration of Onboard Technology in their daily life.

But not all offer the same balance. Always check the manufacturer’s specification sheet and test the aids in real conditions before buying.