Peter Lyon
September 24, 2024
This week, the new Zeekr 7X was unveiled at the Chengdu Motor Show and is now officially available in China. We can also expect to see it surface in the Malaysian market within the next 12 months.
It is available in three different configurations, a 75 kWh RWD, a 100 kWh RWD, and a 100 kWh AWD. The prices of the three variants range from 229,900 yuan (about RM137k) to 269,900 yuan (about RM161k). This month, Zeekr 7X deliveries in China will start.
The new 7X enters the market as a direct rival to the Tesla Model Y. This sleek SUV is expected to expand its sales beyond the domestic market within a year of its local launch.
The 7X is larger than the Tesla Model Y in all dimensions, measuring 4,825 mm in length, 1,930 mm in width, 2,925 mm in height, and sitting on a 2,925 mm wheelbase. While the lower two types have the option to install air suspension, the AWD variant has it as standard.
The PMA2+ platform, which is based on Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA3), serves as its foundation. Additionally, the Zeekr 007 and Smart #5 utilise this same platform. The 7X supports 800V architecture and will be available with two battery options.
The “Golden Brick” lithium ion phosphate (LFP) battery, employs internally developed Zeekr technology, and powers the base 75 kWh RWD model for up to 605 km (CLTC). With just one motor on the rear axle, the vehicle can jump from zero to 100 km/h in 5.8 seconds thanks to its 421 horsepower and 440 Nm of torque. With “4C” charging, the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% capacity in 15 minutes using DC power.
With the same electric motor, the 100kWh RWD variant has a longer range of up to 780 km (CLTC) thanks to a larger NMC battery pack—although in the real world, we think that number is closer to 650.
The “Qilin” nickel cobalt manganese (NCM) battery from CATL, which has a 100 kWh capacity and a 705 km range (CLTC), is included with the 100kWh AWD model. With two motors, the model can reach 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds, with an output of 646 horsepower and 710 Nm of torque. Up to “5.5C” of DC charging is supported, which will take 10.5 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%.
The 7X has the brand’s latest “Hidden Energy” design language. The Zeekr Stargate interactive LCD display runs the length of the front of the vehicle and has the ability to project messages or images onto the front fascia.
CARLIST THOUGHTS
Whether its sharp looks, powerful batteries or decent range, the 7X appears to have what it takes to take on the industry leaders in Tesla. Even if a real-world range figure of 650 is offered, that number more than take the fight to Tesla, and then some. What we need to see is exactly when the U.S. will allow such cars onto its streets.
