Geely’s premium EV brand, Zeekr, has officially launched the global version of the Zeekr 009 (see specs) in Hong Kong, China’s international hub. The event marks Zeekr’s drive for international growth. Car News China was at the launch event, which was held at the AsiaWorld Expo in Hong Kong, China.
Andy An, chairman of Geely Auto, and CEO of Zeekr introduced the Zeekr 009 with a right-hand drive (RHD). It is offered in 6-seat and 7-seat configurations. It has a 400v architecture, and the battery is 116 kWh. Its dual motors offer a 582 km range WLTP. However, it comes without lidar. Zeekr 0009 RHD is intended for the international RHD markets. It supports different languages like Mandarin, English, Cantonese, and Thai. The Hong Kong RHD version starts at 755,000 HKD (96,700 USD).
The revised Zeekr 009 for mainland China has been launched, too. It is offered in 6-seat and 7-seat configurations. The 7-seat version features a 2+2+3 layout with a center aisle and third-row child safety seat interfaces. The 6-seat version provides more luxurious seating without an aisle. It has a 17.3-inch rear roof-mounted screen, a 17-inch 3K OLED ceiling screen, and starry ambient lights. The mainland China versions have a friendlier price tag, starting at 439,000 yuan (60,400 USD).
The 108 kWh 5C battery charges 10% to 80% SOC in 11.5 minutes. The Zeekr 009 continues to use the SEA architecture and now includes a rear-wheel drive version with maximum power options of 250 kW and 310 kW. The all-wheel drive models feature front and rear motors rated at 200/250 kW and 270/310 kW, with top trim using an 800V platform for a combined power output of 580 kW.
Andy An emphasized the Zeekr 009 is also meant for driving pleasure, unlike other MPVs on the market. The fastest spec accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds, featuring standard dual-chamber air suspension and CCD dampers. A 140 kWh battery upgrade for the mainland version is an additional 50,000 yuan (6,900 USD). This upgrade offers 900 km CLTC, the longest range among BEV MPVs.
The new Zeekr 009 has 1,366 component updates while retaining the design of the previous version. It adds roof-mounted LiDAR, which was previously only available on the top trim. The dimensions remain unchanged at 5217/2024/1812 mm with a 3205 mm wheelbase. New colors will be introduced; these include azure gray, aurora green, polar night black, polar day white, and starry blue.
Both variants have a three-spoke steering wheel, Nappa full-grain leather seats, and first-row Sofaro first-class airline seats with headrest speakers, ventilation, massage, and heating functions to enhance comfort. The exclusive “lounge chair” mode allows passengers to stretch out and relax fully.
It has a 35.95-inch AR-HUD display. Advanced infotainment includes a 15.05-inch OLED screen in the front and a 17-inch OLED screen in the back, powered by two Qualcomm 8295 chips. A 30-speaker Yamaha 3000 w peak audio system is integrated with Atmos surround sound. An AI assistant predicts battery needs and reminds owners to charge. It also features wireless phone charging and a temperature-controlled refrigerator that can achieve -6°C to 50°C.
Zeekr 009 is the only MPV certified with front and rear collision tests; the Zeekr 009 drives into the truck’s rear at 60 km/h, and an SUV slams into the rear 009 at 50 km/h. Zeekr added extra protection to the electrical wiring to allow the doors to open successfully after the test. It is the only environmentally friendly cabin with dual certification. “Private Mode,” “Valet Mode,” and sound shield are to keep privacy secure.
Technologically advanced, the Zeekr 009’s dual 8295 chips and the AI EVA voice assistant allow the vehicle to interact actively with different driving scenarios. The Zeekr 009 represents a significant leap forward in the BEV MPV market, combining luxury, performance, and advanced technology to set a new benchmark.
Andy An highlighted that over Zeekr 87,800 units were delivered in the first half of the year, with the Zeekr 009 becoming the top-selling MPV with over 500,000 yuan (68800 USD). Within a week of its pre-sale, the new Zeekr 009 received over 3,000 orders from markets outside mainland China. Andy An also mentioned that 75% of those who bought the Zeekr 009 are company CEOs, executives, and public figures. Among them is Hong Kong superstar Aaron Kwok, who also attended the event.
Since its IPO on the New York Stock Exchange on May 10, 2024, Zeekr has been rapidly expanding, already reaching over 25 markets with a goal of 50 by the end of the year. At a recent event in Hong Kong, Vice President Chen Yu highlighted this ambitious growth strategy, showcasing the Zeekr X and the new Zeekr 009 with RHD as symbols of the company’s innovative spirit and global aspirations. Hong Kong, China’s international hub and a region within the Greater Bay Area where cars drive on the left, is the perfect location for launching the right-hand-drive Zeekr 009.
Updated: 22/07/2024
Heard that Aaaron Kwok is the Chinese version of MJ King of Pop! Cool!