Aussies will be able to pick up the entry-level Zeekr X for slightly less than AU$60,000
Chinese electric vehicle upstart Zeekr is rapidly expanding its global footprint. The Geely-backed brand is set to electrify the Australian market this year before targeting Japan in 2025.
Zeekr may only be a few years old, but its models are already proving popular, and it’s pushing the boundaries of battery technologies. In venturing into the Australian market, the brand has established a local subsidiary and will adopt a franchise dealership distribution model to sell its vehicles.
The brand’s first model to be sold Down Under will be the X SUV. This EV features a 66 kWh lithium-ion battery under the floor and, in the single-motor, rear-wheel drive variant, is good for an impressive 540 km (335 miles) on a single charge. The battery supports 150 kW DC fast charging, meaning the battery can be replenished from 10-80% in less than 30 minutes.
Single-motor versions produce 200 kW (268 hp) and 343 Nm (253 lb-ft) of torque while those seeking more performance will be able to opt for a 315 kW (422 hp) and 543 Nm (400 lb-ft) dual-motor, all-wheel drive model. The extra performance comes at the cost of efficiency and reduces the range to 470 km (292 miles).
Local prices for the base model will start at under AU$60,000 (~$40,000) before fees, while the all-wheel drive model will be priced below AU$70,000 (~$46,700). Joining the X in the Zeekr range will be the 009 luxury MPV, set to land by the end of 2024.
“Zeekr’s expansion into the Australian market brings our innovative and cutting-edge electric vehicles to a new audience, offering a unique driving experience that blends style, performance, and sustainability,” Zeekr Australia managing director Connal Yan said in a statement.
Coming to Japan too
Cracking into the Japanese market is also on Zeekr’s agenda. The company is working to comply with local safety standards and plans to establish showrooms in Tokyo and Osaka soon. It plans to launch both the X and 009 in Japan but local pricing has yet to be announced. Only time will tell how receptive locals are to the new brand.
Last year, BYD was only able to shift 1,446 cars in all of Japan, although its sales have increased slightly since then, and it sold 207 cars locally in July.
