Zeekr X to arrive from less than $60K

ZEEKR has launched in Australia with the new Zeekr X compact electric crossover SUV, and it is going to be positioned in the thick of the EV market.

 

The Chinese brand – which is under the Geely Holdings umbrella – is set to offer two versions of the Zeekr X, with the entry-level single-motor RWD version to start from “less than $60,000 before on-road costs”, while the more richly specified dual-motor AWD will kick off “under $70,000 plus on-roads”.

 

While the final pricing is yet to be confirmed, the business has announced initial specification details for the two-model range.

 

Zeekr Australia head of product Chris Saltapidas introduced the Zeekr X at a media event in Sydney this week, claiming that the new model will be an important first step for the new brand as it sets itself up in the highly competitive market.

 

“The Zeekr X transcends borders and speaks a universal language, the language of innovation, performance and electrifying design,” he said.

 

“It doesn’t discriminate. It embraces all who seek a driving experience that’s both exhilarating and luxurious. It is a car that has not only captured hearts, but has redefined the electric vehicle landscape globally.

 

“It is a combination of brilliant design, uncompromising performance and a vision for a more sustainable future.

 

“It is your perfect partner for navigating the bustling streets of urban Australia, and it offers a blend of sleek design, agile handling and advanced safety and technology, making every drive an effortless adventure.”

 

Both Zeekr X variants feature a 66kWh (gross) Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) battery pack, and the RWD model has 7.2kW AC charging meaning an 11.5-hour recharge time, while the AWD gets a faster 11kW onboard charger that boosts recharge speed to 7.5 hours.

 

DC fast charging is 150kW for RWD and AWD models, with a claimed 10-80 percent recharge in 30 mins. Both models will have vehicle-to-load (V2L) charging, too.

 

There is no WLTP rated range number for the models in Australian spec, but the brand has stated the ADR 81/02 number which aligns to the much more lenient NEDC ratings.

 

The RWD is stated to have 540km of range under that calculation, and the AWD boasts 470km. Zeekr says, the numbers may be closer to the European WLTP claims for the RWD (446km) and AWD (425km).

 

The RWD features a single motor at the rear axle with 200kW and 343Nm, while the AWD adds a second motor at the front axle, with total outputs of 315kW/543Nm.

 

Both models are swift in terms of acceleration, with the RWD claiming 5.6 seconds from 0-100km/h, and the AWD version is blisteringly fast with a 3.8sec claim.

 

The Zeekr X shares its electric vehicle platform architecture with the likes of the Smart #1 and Smart #3, as well as the recently released Volvo EX30. Zeekr Australia has confirmed that the ride and handling tune offered here will be that of the European-spec X, not the Chinese take.

 

The sub-$60K RWD is confirmed to be offered with full LED lighting, 19-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and start, a panoramic glass sunroof, while inside there is a “leather-free” interior trim, a 14.6-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Optus 5G connected services with in-car Wi-Fi, wireless over-the-air (OTA) updates, smartphone app control, Sentry Mode, Pet Mode, Rest Mode, power driver’s seat adjustment, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, auto wipers and lights, and wireless mobile phone charging.

 

The AWD gets the more powerful drivetrain and faster AC charging, the AWD gains 20-inch forged alloy wheels with Continental self-healing tyres, a 24.3-inch augmented reality head-up display, and an Intelligent B-Pillar display that shows the state of charge.

 

In addition to that extra spec, the AWD model also gains the Convenience Package as standard, which can be added to the base grade – the option price is still to be determined. That package comprises driver’s seat memory settings, power passenger seat adjustment, electric lumbar support for front seats, driver and passenger seat heating and cooling, a heated steering wheel, 13-speaker Yamaha stereo and Ice Block LED ambient lighting in the doors.

 

The Zeekr X achieved the maximum five-star Euro NCAP safety rating under 2024 criteria, and both versions will be offered with the full gamut of technology and equipment, including autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping tech, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, a surround-view camera and driver monitoring camera system.

 

The Zeekr X measures up close to its related Volvo cousin, spanning 4432mm long on a 2750mm wheelbase, while it sits 1566mm high and 1836mm wide.

 

Zeekr also confirmed the warranty it will offer for the Australian market – a five-year/unlimited-kilometre cover for the vehicle itself, with the CATL-sourced battery pack covered by an eight-year/160,000km warranty.

 

The servicing intervals are set at every 24 months or 40,000km, and Zeekr says it will offer maintenance through its network of dealer partnerships.