China’s Zeekr has launched an updated version of its debut model, the 001 Performance Hatchback, for 2023.
Premium EV brand Geely hasn’t messed with the 001’s attractive looks, instead boosting the vehicle’s performance significantly.
The 001 is now available with a 140kWh battery as an alternative to the 86 and 100kWh options that have been available since the 001’s launch in 2021.
The 140kWh battery is the new Qilin design from Chinese battery giant CATL. Announced last June, Qilin is CATL’s third-generation cell-to-pack battery. It promises an energy density of 0.255 kWh per kilogram of weight and a 13% improved power output compared to the 4680 battery used by Tesla.
2023 Zeekr 001
Zeekr claims the battery in the 001 will provide over 621 miles of range. The Manila Times reported Tuesday, citing information from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, that the official range estimate of the 001 with the 140 kWh battery is 641 miles. The battery was also reported to weigh 1,602 pounds, bringing the vehicle’s curb weight to 5,170 pounds.
Range claims are based on the test cycle used in China, but even with the EPA’s more stringent test cycle in the US, the 140kWh 001 may have what it takes to outlast the 520-mile Lucid Air Dream Edition range.
2023 Zeekr 001
Deliveries of the updated 001 will begin in China in Q1 2023, and Zeekr is limiting the 140kWh battery option to just 1,000 vehicles. The starting price with the 140kWh battery is 403,000 renminbi ($58,300). The starting price for the 2023 001 series is 300,000 renminbi ($43,400).
Zeekr will also offer the battery in the 009 minivan later this year. Zeekr is also developing a minivan to be used by companies operating robo-taxis. The first Robotaxi customer is Waymo, Alphabet’s self-driving technology company.
2023 Zeekr 009
Other updates for the 2023 001 include new exterior colors and a Z-Sport package. The standard powertrain is a single motor at the rear with 286 hp, while a twin-motor 536 hp all-wheel drive is available.
Zeekr operates exclusively in China but plans to expand to Europe in 2023 with the 001. There are currently no plans to expand to the US, but there are reports that the brand could launch an IPO here.