Geely-owned premium EV brand Zeekr is accelerating its expansion in the Australian market. Following the success of the 7X electric SUV, the brand has confirmed a significant diversification of its local lineup, introducing both Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) technology and high-performance electric wagons.
According to Zeekr Australia Managing Director Frank Li, the brand will roll out three new models—the 9X, 8X, and 7GT —over the next year or two. This move signals a strategic shift: while Zeekr has primarily been a pure-electric player, the introduction of PHEVs suggests an attempt to capture buyers who are not yet ready to commit fully to battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
The Flagship Arrival: Zeekr 9X PHEV
The 9X PHEV is set to lead the new wave of arrivals, expected to hit Australian showrooms later this year or early next year. Positioned as a luxury heavyweight, the 9X is a massive 5.2-metre SUV designed to compete in the high-end segment.
Key specifications of the 9X include:
– Design: A bold, “square-shouldered” aesthetic with an upright grille and 22-inch wheels, reminiscent of ultra-luxury marques like Rolls-Royce.
– Powertrain: A 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with either dual or tri-motor electric setups.
– Performance: Massive power outputs ranging from 660kW/935Nm to a staggering 1030kW/1410Nm in the tri-motor variant.
– Range & Charging: A standard 900V electrical system with battery options of 55kWh or 70kWh. It offers an electric-only range of up to 380km (CLTC) and a total combined range of up to 1250km.
Note: Due to its high performance and luxury positioning, the 9X will be subject to Australia’s Luxury Car Tax (LCT).
High-Performance Versatility: The 7GT Electric Wagon
Complementing the large SUVs is the 7GT, a sleek, high-performance electric wagon. Positioned in size between a BMW 3 Series and 5 Series touring, the 7GT targets drivers seeking a blend of utility and extreme speed.
The 7GT is expected to offer impressive charging capabilities and performance tiers:
– Fast Charging: An 800V architecture allows for a 10% to 80% charge in just 13 minutes via 480kW charging.
– Performance Tiers:
– Entry Level: A 310kW rear-wheel-drive model with a 519km (WLTP) range.
– Long Range: A 100kWh battery option extending range to 655km (WLTP).
– Flagship (Privilege AWD): A powerhouse delivering 475kW/710Nm, capable of sprinting from 0-100km/h in just 3.3 seconds.
– Technology: The cabin is highly digitized, featuring a 35.5-inch augmented reality head-up display and a 15-inch central touchscreen.
Strategic Context: Why This Matters
Zeekr’s aggressive expansion comes on the back of explosive growth. The brand has seen a 768.2% year-on-year increase in EV sales in Australia, largely driven by the 7X SUV.
By introducing the 8X (a large PHEV SUV expected in 2027) and the 9X, Zeekr is moving “upmarket.” They are no longer just providing accessible electric mobility; they are competing for the prestige and high-performance segments traditionally dominated by European luxury brands. Furthermore, by offering PHEVs, Zeekr is addressing “range anxiety”—a major hurdle for mass-market EV adoption—by providing a bridge for consumers who require long-distance capability without relying solely on a charging network.
Market Impact: Zeekr’s recent sales momentum has already seen it outpace its Geely sister brands, Volvo and Polestar, in the Australian market, positioning it as a major new force in the premium automotive landscape.
Summary: Zeekr is evolving from a niche EV player into a multi-segment powerhouse in Australia, using high-performance electric wagons and long-range plug-in hybrids to target the luxury market.
