Zeekr 001 Review 2025: Luxury Electric Estate With 544 HP

The Zeekr 001 emerges as a standout in the crowded electric vehicle landscape, blending sleek shooting brake aesthetics with powerhouse performance and upscale amenities. Backed by Geely’s engineering prowess, this EV promises to disrupt the premium segment traditionally dominated by brands like Porsche and BMW. With dual-motor setups delivering over 500 horsepower and battery packs supporting hundreds of miles of travel, it appeals to enthusiasts seeking thrill without the exorbitant price tag.

Design and Aerodynamics: Form Meets Function

Zeekr’s flagship model sports a fastback silhouette optimized for efficiency and style. Its frog-eye LED headlights and seamless front end eliminate traditional grilles, enhancing aerodynamics while projecting a sporty vibe. Flared wheel arches and a tapering roofline contribute to a low drag coefficient, crucial for maximizing range. Pop-out door handles and intricate 3D rear lighting add modern flair, often mistaken for higher-end competitors in everyday settings.

The body conceals a hefty battery beneath, yet the design masks the 2.35-tonne curb weight effectively. Available in Long Range rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive Performance variants, the 001 measures around 5 meters long, offering a practical footprint for families. Black roof options further slim the profile, making it visually agile despite its size.

Powertrain Options: From Efficient to Explosive

Buyers have choices across trims. The entry-level Long Range RWD packs a single rear motor producing 268bhp (200kW), achieving 0-62mph in 7.2 seconds with a WLTP range up to 385 miles from its 100kWh Qilin battery. For thrill-seekers, the Privilege AWD dual-motor system unleashes 544hp (400kW) and 686Nm of torque, slashing sprint time to 3.8 seconds while maintaining a 360-mile range. Top speed caps at 124mph across the board.

These figures position the 001 against heavyweights like the BMW i4 M50, with efficiency around 3.4 miles/kWh in real-world tests.

Chassis and Driving Dynamics: Balanced Agility

Riding on Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform, shared with models like the Polestar 4, the 001 handles its mass with poise. Air suspension in higher trims provides a compliant ride, firm enough for spirited cornering yet absorbent over bumps. Owners praise its stability during quick direction changes, feeling lighter than rivals like the VW ID.4 despite the weight.

AWD models grip tenaciously, with torque vectoring enhancing turn-in sharpness. Regen braking and adaptive cruise create serene highway cruising, marred only by minor wind noise from frameless windows. Sport mode demands punchy acceleration, though some note throttle mapping could sharpen further. Overall, it’s a composed grand tourer with surprising agility.

Interior Refinement: Premium Comfort Zone

Step inside, and the 001 impresses with minimalist luxury. Soft-touch materials, ambient lighting, and a panoramic glass roof foster an airy cabin. Front seats offer heating, ventilation, and massage functions for long-haul comfort. Rear space accommodates adults easily, with generous legroom and a flat floor.

• 12-speaker Yamaha audio system with immersive modes like Jazz Club
• Tri-zone climate control and powered rear sunblinds
• Massaging seats effective even at speed
• 539-litre boot expandable via 40/20/40 split-folding seats

Build quality rivals European premiums, with precise panel gaps and durable finishes.

Technology and Infotainment: Feature-Packed Hub

A massive central touchscreen anchors the cockpit, running Zeekr’s OS with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Voice commands handle navigation and media, though response times vary. Over-the-air updates promise ongoing refinements.

Advanced driver aids include Level 2 autonomy: adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, and traffic jam assist. A 360-degree camera and parking aids simplify maneuvers. Wireless charging exists but draws criticism for sluggishness.

Battery and Charging: Rapid Real-World Readiness

The 100kWh pack supports 200kW DC fast charging, reclaiming 10-80% in about 30 minutes—ideal for road trips. Real-world range hits 373 miles in mild conditions, with efficiency holding up in mixed driving. Home AC charging at 11kW is standard.

Practicality for Everyday Use: Family-Friendly Versatility

Beyond performance, the 001 shines in utility. Its shooting brake shape yields a deep boot, surpassing many SUVs. ISOFIX points and wide doors ease child seat installation. Low load lip and powered tailgate enhance accessibility.

Quiet propulsion and refined suspension make it a relaxing daily driver, suitable for urban commutes or cross-country jaunts.

Pricing and Market Positioning: Value Proposition

Starting around €68,490 for top AWD specs in Europe, the 001 undercuts Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo equivalents while matching specs. UK pricing awaits confirmation but promises competitiveness against Tesla Model S and BMW i4. Warranty covers 8 years/100,000 miles on the battery.

Potential Drawbacks: Areas for Improvement

No EV is flawless. Software glitches, laggy interfaces, and quirky voice controls persist in early units. Suspension feels bouncy to some on undulating roads. Long-term reliability remains unproven outside China.

Future Outlook: Zeekr’s Expanding Ambitions

Zeekr plans more SEA-platform models, including SUVs and coupes. European expansion accelerates, with right-hand-drive UK arrivals imminent. As software matures, the 001 could solidify its premium status.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the top speed of the Zeekr 001?

All variants top out at 124mph (200km/h).

How fast does the AWD Zeekr 001 accelerate?

0-62mph in 3.8 seconds, powered by 544hp.

What is the battery size and range?

100kWh battery offers up to 385 miles WLTP in RWD, 360 in AWD.

Does it support fast charging?

Yes, up to 200kW DC for 10-80% in ~30 minutes.

Is the interior spacious?

Yes, with ample rear legroom and 539-litre boot.

Who makes the Zeekr 001?

Zeekr, Geely’s premium EV brand.