The electric vehicle (EV) revolution has predominantly focused on SUVs, with larger vehicles dominating the market. However, challenger brand ZEEKR is shifting its attention back to smaller urban cars with the introduction of the X, aimed at sophisticated city dwellers seeking a futuristic vehicle. I had the opportunity to test drive the ZEEKR X at its Stockholm launch, and I was impressed.
ZEEKR may not be a familiar name, but it is not just another Chinese brand entering the European market. ZEEKR is a brand owned by Geely, the Chinese behemoth that also owns Volvo, Polestar, Lotus, LEVC, Lynk & Co, and Proton. While the ZEEKR brand is available in China, its design work is primarily carried out in Sweden to cater specifically to European customers. The X is ZEEKR’s second car to enter the European market.
ZEEKR launched its flagship car, the Panamera-like 001, in Europe in July, featuring exceptional performance, range, and luxury. Building on the 001, ZEEKR recently launched the “Future Roads” version, which claims to be the fastest production car. However, unlike its predecessors, the X is positioned as a more affordable option, targeting discerning city dwellers rather than speed enthusiasts.
The design of the ZEEKR X’s rear end strongly resembles the BMW i3, and I had the opportunity to park it next to an i3 during a coffee break, which emphasized the similarities. While the ZEEKR X is larger and more robust than the BMW, it serves as a modern interpretation of the fast electric urban runabout that the i3 successfully provided for many years.
At the launch, the ZEEKR X was offered in two versions: the Long Range RWD with a 272hp rear-wheel drive engine and the Privilege AWD with dual motors for all-wheel drive and 428hp. Both versions feature a 69kWh gross (64kWh net) battery, with the RWD variant offering a WLTP range of 445km (278 miles) and the AWD variant offering slightly less at 425km (266 miles). The RWD version comes with 19in wheels, while the AWD version includes 20in wheels. The interior offers a panoramic sunroof, two-zone climate control, heated seats, a 14.6in infotainment system, 13-speaker Yamaha sound system, and a comprehensive suite of 19 Advanced Driver-Assistance System functions.
ZEEKR has emphasized the spaciousness of the X’s interior, particularly its long wheelbase. While the front seats offer ample room, the rear seats are more suitable for a family with two children or occasional use by four adults. The panoramic sunroof enhances the sense of space, although knee room is slightly limited. The seats are comfortable and well-upholstered, with the Privilege AWD version even offering massage front seats. The cargo space is typical for a hatchback, with 362 liters available with the rear seats up and 1,182 liters with the rear seats folded down.
I had the opportunity to drive both versions of the ZEEKR X. While the AWD variant is incredibly fast, reaching 62mph in just 3.8 seconds, the RWD model is also impressive with a 0-62mph time of 5.6 seconds. The handling of the X prioritizes comfort over track performance, exhibiting noticeable body roll in fast corners and some understeer in the AWD version. However, the RWD version is more than sufficient for most city drivers, offering a lighter steering feel. The range of both versions is respectable, with a maximum of 278 miles for the RWD and 266 miles for the AWD. The X supports 150kW DC charging and includes a built-in 22kW AC charger, allowing for a 10-80% charge in 29 minutes on DC or 4 hours on AC.
The ZEEKR X boasts Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA), shared with Smart #1, Volvo EX30, and Polestar 4. The infotainment system features a 14.6in screen, an 8.8in instrumentation screen, projected Head-Up Display, and a user-friendly interface reminiscent of Tesla’s menu system. The X offers various connected tech features, with additional premium options providing live traffic, online points of interest and EV routing, regular map updates, over-the-air updates, and app downloads. The B-pillar of the car displays contextual information such as charge level during charging.
ZEEKR has positioned the X as an affordable luxury small car suitable for city driving. While the range may not be as extensive as some competitors, with other brands exceeding 300 miles, the X’s battery warranty stands out at 200,000km (125,000 miles) for eight years.
ZEEKR’s pricing is competitive, particularly considering it is a newcomer to the market. The X offers a premium experience across all trim levels and represents an attractive option for those seeking a luxury small electric car.
Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
