Zeekr X tackles Mannequin Y with sub-$30,000 worth, tech twists
Chinese language automaker Geely’s Zeekr model this week unveiled its third mannequin, a virtually Tesla Mannequin Y-sized crossover that may promote for lower than $30,000 in its residence market.
The Zeekr X follows the 009 van and the 001, a hatchback based mostly on an idea initially badged for Geely’s Lynk & Co. model, within the all-electric Zeekr model’s lineup. Deliveries in China are scheduled to start out in June with a base worth of 189,800 yuan, equal to $27,600 at present trade charges. European gross sales will comply with, however there are not any plans to deliver the X to the U.S.
Geely can also be the guardian firm of Volvo and Polestar, which influenced the event of the Zeekr X. The crossover was designed in Volvo’s hometown of Gothenburg, Sweden, albeit at what Zeekr claims is a standalone design studio. The styling itself hews carefully to the Lynk & Co.-inspired look of the 001.
2023 Zeekr X
The X additionally shares Sustainable Electrical Structure (SEA) underpinnings with the Polestar 3 and Volvo EX90 electrical SUVs. It is a bit smaller than these different SEA-based fashions, nonetheless. At 175 inches lengthy, it is across the similar measurement because the Volvo XC40 Recharge. And with Zeekr’s billing as a “premium electrical automobile firm,” the longer Mannequin Y is unquestionably within the upstart EV’s crosshairs.
Zeekr claims a powerful 3.7-second 0-62 mph time, in addition to 348 miles of vary on China’s CLTC testing cycle. That will seemingly equate to one thing lower than 300 miles by U.S. EPA requirements, however greater than 250 miles.
2023 Zeekr X
The Zeekr crossover additionally boasts just a few novel tech options, together with a sliding touchscreen that may be repositioned in entrance of the passenger. It is a substitute for the mounted front-passenger screens now being provided on Mercedes-EQ electrical fashions. The B-pillar additionally consists of facial recognition and a small display screen that exhibits the state of cost.
Zeekr goals for an “asset mild technique” that appears to suppliers for core tech. One instance is a partnership with CATL that Zeekr has mentioned will ship EVs with 600 miles of vary. The Zeekr 009 makes use of CATL’s cell-to-pack tech to realize an estimated 514 miles of vary on the CLTC testing cycle, so the model is already nicely on its manner towards that aim.
