Zeekr’s Ambitious Launch in Australia: A New Era for Premium Electric Vehicles
A New Player in the Market
With an influx of new automotive brands making their mark in Australia, keeping track can feel overwhelming. In October 2024, Zeekr made its debut, igniting curiosity about this newcomer in the electric vehicle (EV) landscape. But what exactly is Zeekr? Let’s delve into the intriguing story of this rising star.
Who is Zeekr?
Founded in 2021, Zeekr is a premium electric car brand based in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China. This relatively young company operates under the umbrella of Geely Automobile, which has an impressive portfolio that includes renowned names like Volvo, Lotus, and Polestar, all of which are available in the Australian market.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The name "Zeekr" stems from a clever fusion of Generation Z and the word ‘geek’. This reflects the brand’s mission to attract a tech-savvy, youth-oriented audience. The first model to hit the market was the Zeekr 001 Shooting Brake, launched in April 2021 on the ‘SEA’ platform, which is also utilized by vehicles from Polestar and Lotus.
A Strong Start with Impressive Sales
In its inaugural year, Zeekr achieved remarkable success by selling nearly 72,000 units of the 001 in China alone. This strong performance set a solid foundation for the brand’s ambitions and future ventures.
Innovations in Technology
In 2022, Zeekr collaborated with Waymo, an American autonomous driving company, to develop an advanced self-driving taxi named the Zeekr M-Vision. This innovative vehicle, set to begin testing in mid-2024, promises to revolutionize public transport with its robotic services.
Expanding the Lineup
Following the 001, the next model introduced was the Zeekr 009, a spacious electric people carrier launched in early 2023. This vehicle marked a significant advancement for the brand, featuring the CATL’s Qilin long-range 140kWh battery that provides an impressive 582km of range (WLTP).
Growth Beyond Borders
By integrating CATL’s cutting-edge battery technology, Zeekr expanded into Europe in 2023, successfully entering markets in Sweden and the Netherlands. This international progression is clear evidence of the brand’s escalating ambition.
Entering the SUV Market
The Zeekr X, a compact SUV that follows the SEA2 architecture, was the next addition to their lineup. This model is available in both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, ensuring versatility for a diverse audience.
New Models on the Horizon
Following the Zeekr X, the Zeekr 007 sedan was unveiled, boasting a range of up to 870km according to the lenient CLTC testing cycle. Anticipation builds as the 007 prepares to welcome a GT wagon variant later in 2025.
Fast-Charging Capabilities
The Zeekr 007 features the latest LFP battery technology, allowing for ultra-fast charging, achieving a 10 to 80 percent charge in under 11 minutes. Zeekr has ambitious plans to deploy more than 10,000 ultra-fast charging stations globally by 2026, enhancing convenience for their customers.
Growing Demand and Market Presence
In an impressive feat, Zeekr sold a total of 222,123 cars globally in 2024, a significant increase from the previous year. This upward trajectory is bolstered by ongoing product development and market expansion.
A Bold Financial Move
In May 2024, Zeekr made headlines with its initial public offering (IPO) on the New York Stock Exchange, successfully raising $441 million. This event marked the largest IPO for a Chinese company since 2021, reflecting investor confidence in the brand.
The Australian Launch
October 2024 marked Zeekr’s official entrance into the Australian market. Currently, the brand offers two models: the X small SUV starting at $49,990 plus on-road costs, and the 009 people carrier, priced from $135,900 plus on-road costs. Another model, the 7X mid-size SUV, is expected to be available before year’s end.
Future Expansion Plans
Zeekr has ambitious plans to triple its dealer network, aiming for a target of selling 10,000 vehicles in just a few years. This strategy includes not only new products but also enhancing brand recognition in a competitive market.
Current Dealership Footprint
Currently, Zeekr operates six permanent showrooms located in Perth, Geelong, Melbourne, Canberra, and Sydney, with additional pop-up locations in Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.
Pioneering Premium EVs in Australia
Zeekr takes pride in being the first premium Chinese EV brand to enter the Australian market. The company believes that expanding its product range, establishing more dealership locations, and forging brand recognition will be key drivers in achieving significant sales growth.
Conclusion: A Brand to Watch
As Zeekr continues to evolve and expand in Australia, its commitment to innovative technology and sustainable transportation is poised to make waves in the electric vehicle market. With an ambitious vision and growing product lineup, Zeekr is a brand to watch. The future looks bright as they aim to firmly establish their presence in the competitive Australian automotive landscape. Keep an eye on Zeekr as they embark on this exciting journey!
