Zeekr 001: Impressive Design Meets Software Challenges
The Hague, Tuesday, 24 September 2024.
Rutger’s four-week test drive of the Zeekr 001, Geely’s electric fastback, reveals a car with striking design and comfort, but hampered by significant software issues. The vehicle’s luxurious features contrast sharply with its problematic user interface.
Luxury Meets Utility
The Zeekr 001, designed by Geely, a prominent Chinese automaker, stands out for its confident and understated design. This fully electric fastback features sleek lines, 22-inch wheels, and a spacious, high-quality interior. The combination of coupe aesthetics with SUV practicality gives the Zeekr 001 a unique market position, marketed as a ‘luxury hunting coupe.’ The attention to detail is evident in amenities such as ambient lighting, a Yamaha audio system, and massage features in the seats, all of which enhance the driving experience.
Performance and Range
With different model specifications, the Zeekr 001 caters to various performance needs. For instance, the ZEEKR 001 WE 100 kWh RWD boasts 422 hp and a range of 750 km, with fast charging capabilities of just 0.25 hours. In contrast, the ZEEKR 001 ME 100 kWh 4WD offers 789 hp and a range of 705 km, with similar charging times. The vehicle’s maximum speed across models is an impressive 240 km/h, and its electricity consumption ranges from 14.8 to 16.3 kWh/100 km, making it both a powerful and efficient choice for green innovation.
Software Struggles
Despite its many strengths, the Zeekr 001 is plagued by software issues that detract from the overall experience. Rutger’s test drive highlighted problems such as the car’s camera system struggling with user recognition and the need to adjust the head-up display frequently. Additionally, the user interface complicates the process of disabling unwanted systems before each trip. These software flaws overshadow the vehicle’s otherwise robust performance, prompting calls for timely updates from Zeekr to enhance user satisfaction.
Future Prospects: Hybrid Innovation
Looking ahead, Zeekr is not resting on its laurels. The company, under the leadership of CEO Andy An, is developing a hybrid version of the Zeekr 001, expected to launch in 2025. This hybrid model will integrate plug-in hybrid and extended-range hybrid systems, addressing consumer range anxiety and offering enhanced flexibility. This move aligns with broader trends among Chinese EV manufacturers, such as Avatr and Xpeng, who are also exploring hybrid technologies.
Market Identity and Competition
Zeekr’s identity within the Geely portfolio remains a topic of discussion. Positioned above Volvo and amid competition from Lynk & Co, Polestar, and Lotus, Zeekr must carve out a distinct market presence. The introduction of hybrid models could either clarify or further complicate its brand positioning. As Lynk & Co transitions from internal combustion engines to battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, Zeekr’s shift to hybrids could lead to internal competition but also presents an opportunity for differentiation.