Zeekr may well be the next premium Chinese EV brand to be launched in New Zealand. We have just heard that the EV-only brand is launching in Australia in the second half of 2024, which means it will likely sell in New Zealand as well. If so, we imagine that Zeekr will join other Geely brands like Polestar, Volvo and Lotus, which are handled locally by the Giltrap Group.
The brand is expected to launch with the compact electric SUV known as the Zeekr X. Whether or not the large MPV, the Zeekr 009, the Zeekr 001 shooting brake (below) or the Zeekr 007 sedan makes it here is unclear. The latter is a Tesla Model 3 rival.
The news that the brand is coming Down Under was confirmed recently by Zeekr Australia and New Zealand head of marketing, Andrew Haurissa. Evidently the Zeekr X and 009 models have just gone into right-hand drive production, prompting the announcement in Carsales. Both models are already on sale in the EU, while initial RHD variants are earmarked for Thailand.
The Zeekr X is the most recent release and shares its Geely Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) EV platform with Volvo’s EX30. Two versions are available in the domestic market, the Zeekr X long-range single-motor variant, and a standard-range, dual-motor option. The former uses a 200kW motor, has a claimed 0-100 sprint time of 5.6sec and has a stated driving range of 440km.
The Zeekr X dual-motor variant has a combined power output of 315kW, sprints to 100km/h in a claimed 3.8sec and has a battery range of around 400km. A high performance braking system can evidently produce an emergency 100-0km/h braking figure of 34.5m. Wheels are 19- or 20-inch items. Dimensions are 4432mm for length, 2750mm for wheelbase and 1566mm for height.
Features include a minimalist interior with square-shaped, dual-spoked steering wheel. There is also a 14.6-inch touchscreen, augmented reality head-up display, and an oblong shaped instrument panel.
The full-sized Zeekr 009 is an electric MPV with seats for six or seven people, and will compete with the likes of Kia’s Carnival. It apparently has 400kW to its name, and can rush to 100km/h from a standstill in 4.5sec. Yet its range is a claimed 822km by virtue of its 140kWh battery pack. A smaller 116kWh battery is also available, offering a 702km range. Whether or not it is part of the local line-up is unclear.
We will update Zeekr’s plans for the New Zealand market as more information comes to hand.
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