Geely subsidiary Zeekr launches “fastest ever” luxury compact electric SUV

Zeekr, Geely Holding Group’s premium electric vehicle (EV) brand, has launched a new compact electric SUV called the Zeekr X, that will start at the equivalent of $A41,000.

This is the third model from Zeekr and was launched at an event last week by company CEO Andy An. Based on Geely’s Sustainable Electric Architecture (SEA) and positioned as an urban sport utility vehicle, the Zeekr X has a range of around 560 kilometres.

Three models will be available in China, with the base model starting at RMB189,800 (around $A41,000) and the two upgraded models coming in at RMB 209,800 (around $A45,500).

All three are powered by a 66kWh ternary lithium battery pack, delivering peak power of 315kW, peak torque of 543Nm, and acceleration of 0-100km/h in only 3.7 seconds, making it, according to Zeekr, the fastest compact luxury car ever.

The Zeekr X ME is available only in a rear-drive, five-seater model, while the Zeekr X You is available in both five-seater, four-wheel drive and four-seater, rear-drive. The compact EV SUV will also be available in a range of colours.

Among the luxury “experiences” to debut in the Zeekr X is the first 14.6-inch electric sliding smart screen in its class. Mounted on a 353mm ultra-long slide rail, the one-click super large screen modifies what can be displayed depending on where along the rail it is positioned.

When it is in the centre of the rail, the information provides functions for the whole car. When it is slid in front of the front passenger, it becomes a smart entertainment terminal.

A specially designed 24.3-inch AR-HUD and an 8.8-inch LCD instrument screen provide the driver with the necessary instrumentation.

In terms of safety, the Zeekr X is fitted with intelligent driving assistance systems utilising 5 cameras, 5 millimetre-wave radars, and 12 ultrasonic radars.

In response to a question from CnEVPost, Zeekr CEO An said that the company is targeting delivery of 40,000 models by the year’s end.

Expected to begin deliveries in June and with pre-orders already open, Zeekr is targeting the Zeekr X at China’s compact luxury market, with a hint at worldwide release on the horizon. CnEVPost also reported that Zeekr is targeting a European launch for the Zeekr X, along with the Zeekr 001.

According to CnEVPost, Zeekr will announce more details about its European strategy at the Shanghai auto show to be held this week.