Zeekr 009 Review: Ultra-Luxury Electric MPV

The Zeekr 009 redefines the electric MPV segment with a mix of luxury, performance, and practicality. Designed for those who seek premium transportation, it offers:

Performance: Dual motors producing 603 hp, 0–62 mph in 4.5 seconds, and up to 511 miles of range (CLTC).
Luxury Features: Nappa leather seats, 30-speaker Yamaha surround sound, and a Business Class mode with reclining seats.
Technology: Advanced driver assistance, a 15-inch OLED touchscreen, and ultra-fast charging (10%-80% in 11 minutes with 800V Qilin battery).
Practicality: Configurations for 6 or 7 passengers, up to 105.2 cubic feet of cargo space, and CCS2 charging compatibility.

Starting at around $90,000, the Zeekr 009 blends high-end comfort with cutting-edge technology, making it a strong contender for executive fleets and luxury family transport. Its sleek design, long range, and advanced safety features cater to both urban and intercity travel needs.

Design and Interior Experience

Exterior Design and Dimensions

The Zeekr 009 stretches about 17.1 feet in length and 6.6 feet in width, making it roughly 2.1 inches longer than the Kia Carnival. Despite its size, the design team achieved an impressive 0.27 drag coefficient, which enhances efficiency.

One of its standout features is the front grille, which doubles as a customizable light system – the first of its kind for an MPV. This unique grille allows for personalized lighting effects. Adding to its striking appearance are LED claw-shaped daytime running lights and an expansive 4.8-foot integrated tail light bar. The futuristic vibe is further amplified by hidden dual A-pillars and curved glass, creating a "spaceship-like" aesthetic while improving driver visibility.

"In the metal, the 009 is massive, longer than a Toyota Alphard and broader than most things not classified as commercial vehicles." – Sean Loo, Editor

Despite its size, the 009 is surprisingly agile, boasting a tight 40.7-foot turning radius. A 360-degree camera system, including a "Transparent Chassis" view, aids in urban navigation. The vehicle rides on 20-inch Starlight alloy wheels and incorporates structural advancements, such as a single-piece aluminum rear underbody produced by a 7,200-ton die-casting machine. This innovative design eliminates nearly 800 welding points and spans approximately 4.6 feet by 5.2 feet. The bold exterior seamlessly transitions into an equally sophisticated interior.

Interior Materials and Seating Options

The interior is crafted with premium materials, including Nappa full-grain leather, a suede headliner, and glossy inlays enhanced by integrated ambient lighting. Buyers can choose between two seating configurations: a six-seat (2-2-2) layout with Sofaro first-class aeronautic seats, each equipped with fold-out tables, or a seven-seat (2-2-3) arrangement with a walk-through aisle for easier access to the third row.

The six-seat flagship version costs $4,000 more than the seven-seater in markets like Australia, with prices starting at $139,900 versus $135,900. The second-row captain’s chairs are mounted on 3.6-foot rails, providing exceptional legroom. These chairs also feature 4.7-inch thick cushions, seven-layer heating, ventilation, and multiple massage modes for ultimate comfort.

"The Zeekr 009 is powerful, silent… and has an interior fitout that looks like the business-class cabin on an international jetliner." – Kez Casey, Drive

One of the standout features is the Business Class mode, where the front passenger seat folds down, and the second-row seat reclines into a near-flat bed with a powered footrest, transforming the cabin into a mobile lounge. Cargo space is also generous, starting at 20.3 cubic feet with all seats in use and expanding to 105.2 cubic feet with the third row folded. Alongside its luxurious materials, the cabin includes advanced climate control and entertainment systems to elevate passenger comfort.

Comfort and Convenience Features

The Zeekr 009 takes passenger comfort seriously, offering multi-zone climate control managed through Smartbar touchscreens embedded in the doors. This setup allows passengers to adjust their environment independently. Heated, ventilated, and massaging seats come standard in the first two rows.

A built-in 8.6-liter smart fridge keeps items at temperatures ranging from 21°F (-6°C) to 122°F (50°C) and continues running even when the vehicle is off – perfect for keeping drinks cold or meals warm during long stops. Rear passengers can enjoy a 17-inch 3K OLED ceiling-mounted screen with five adjustable viewing angles, paired with a Yamaha 30-speaker hi-fi system that delivers 3,000 watts of surround sound. Some speakers are even integrated into the headrests for an immersive audio experience.

The cabin is exceptionally quiet, with interior noise levels measuring just 64.5 decibels at 75 mph – quieter than many luxury sedans. This is achieved through laminated glass and extensive soundproofing materials. USB-C ports throughout the interior provide between 60W and 100W of power, making it easy to charge high-powered devices on the go. For added convenience, the dual glass roof includes power shades to control natural light, while manual window blinds in the second row offer additional privacy.

2025 Zeekr 009: Detailed review – 0-100, 1/4 mile & POV test drive

Performance and Efficiency

Zeekr 009 EV Charging Times and Infrastructure Compatibility in Africa

Battery, Range, and Efficiency

The Zeekr 009 comes with three battery options: a 108 kWh (800V NMC Qilin), a 116 kWh (NMC), and a 140 kWh (400V NMC Qilin) pack. Manufacturer estimates suggest a range of up to 559 miles (CLTC), but WLTP ratings for the 116 kWh battery are closer to 362 miles (582 km). In real-world testing, the range was approximately 292 miles (470 km), with energy consumption at 24.7 kWh/100 km – higher than the claimed 20.4 kWh/100 km. This discrepancy is partly due to the vehicle’s substantial curb weight of 6,330–6,550 pounds (2,870–2,970 kg).

"Real-world driving is a much shorter 470km on a single charge… Still great for city runs and airport shuttles, but less ideal as a long-range tourer." – Kez Casey, Drive.com.au

In regions with high temperatures and rough roads, such as parts of Africa, the climate and battery cooling systems face additional strain. Despite the dual-chamber air suspension helping on uneven surfaces, the 116 kWh battery’s range in these conditions drops to around 280–310 miles (450–500 km).

Charging Speed and Infrastructure Compatibility

The Zeekr 009’s charging capabilities highlight its efficiency. Charging times vary depending on the battery version. Models equipped with the 800V Qilin battery can charge from 10% to 80% in under 11 minutes using ultra-high-power chargers, with peak charging rates reaching an impressive 561.9 kW. Meanwhile, the standard export version with the 116 kWh battery supports up to 205 kW DC fast charging, taking about 30 minutes to go from 10% to 80%.

The vehicle uses a CCS2 port, which is widely supported in international markets. For home charging, an 11 kW AC wallbox takes roughly 13.5 hours for a full charge. A 50 kW DC fast charger, more common in urban areas, requires around 2 hours for a 10% to 80% charge.

Charger Power	10%–80% Charge Time	Availability in Africa
50 kW DC	~2 hours	Common in major cities
150–205 kW DC	30 minutes	Limited to select urban hubs
350+ kW DC	16–17 minutes	Rare; mostly non-existent
11 kW AC	13.5 hours (full)	Growing residential/commercial

"The ZEEKR’s super-fast charging ability is enabled by CATL’s Qilin battery technology, which integrates advanced chemistry, form factor, cooling, and intelligent battery management to improve performance." – Dr. Maximilian Holland, CleanTechnica

While Africa’s charging infrastructure is still developing – with most networks offering 50–150 kW chargers – the Zeekr 009’s CCS2 compatibility positions it well for future advancements. Its ultra-fast charging capabilities will truly shine when higher-power stations become more widely available.

Driving Performance and Ride Quality

Beyond its energy efficiency, the Zeekr 009 delivers an impressive driving experience. Powered by a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system producing 603 horsepower (450 kW) and 511 pound-feet (693 Nm) of torque, the 009 accelerates from 0 to 62 mph (0–100 km/h) in just 4.5 seconds. While its initial acceleration is tempered by its weight, the rolling acceleration is outstanding:

"Acceleration from a standstill’s not head-pinning, but rolling acceleration is mind-blowing. It surges forward on a wall of torque." – Iain Curry, Contributor, Chasing Cars

The ride quality is enhanced by a dual-chamber air suspension system with electromagnetic continuously controlled damping (CCD). Combined with a double wishbone front and multi-link all-aluminum rear suspension, the setup ensures a smooth, almost "floating" ride, even on rough terrain. When set to Normal mode with the highest ride height, the system effectively absorbs bumps, making it ideal for challenging road conditions.

Despite its length of 17.1 feet (5.2 meters), the 009 handles urban environments well, thanks to a tight turning circle. However, its steering can feel artificial, and the vehicle’s weight makes spirited driving less engaging. The regenerative braking system supports one-pedal driving, though some reviewers have noted the brake feel can be inconsistent, describing it as "lifeless" or "grabby" at times. Depending on the variant, the top speed is electronically limited to 118–130 mph (190–210 km/h).

Technology and Safety Features

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Zeekr 009 is packed with technology, offering multiple high-resolution screens to enhance the driving and passenger experience. Up front, drivers have access to a 15.05-inch OLED central touchscreen, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, and a massive 35.95-inch augmented reality head-up display that projects navigation and speed data directly onto the windshield for added convenience. Rear passengers aren’t left out, as they can enjoy a roof-mounted 17-inch LCD screen. This screen supports apps, games, and even video conferencing through a built-in selfie camera – perfect for business travelers who need to stay connected on the go.

The audio system is another standout feature. It’s a Yamaha surround sound setup with 30 speakers delivering a powerful 3,000 watts. For a more immersive experience, speakers are even built into the front headrests. Running this tech is a Qualcomm Snapdragon processor – either the 8295 or, in earlier models, the 8155. This processor powers the multi-screen interface and the "EVA" AI voice assistant, enabling hands-free control over navigation, climate, and media settings. Connectivity is seamless, with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a 5G Wi-Fi hotspot as standard features.

In African markets, certain features are particularly practical. Over-the-air updates allow for remote software upgrades, reducing the need for service center visits. Rear passengers can also adjust climate controls, seat settings, and even massage functions using "Smart Bar" touchscreens on the door panels.

"The 009 is like a big house with hidden rooms. Every trip I took I seemed to discover something new, unexpected and often delightful." – Tony Davis, Motoring Writer, Australian Financial Review

Beyond entertainment and connectivity, the Zeekr 009 integrates advanced driver assistance features to enhance safety.

Driver Assistance Systems

The Zeekr 009 is equipped with an extensive suite of sensors, including seven 8MP HD cameras, four 2MP surround-view cameras, and a long-range millimeter-wave radar capable of detecting objects up to 250 meters away. In tight urban settings, the 360-degree camera system and a 12.4-meter turning circle make maneuvering easier. On highways, adaptive cruise control generally performs well, though some reviewers have noted that it can react slowly and decelerate too much on sweeping curves.

The lane-centering system keeps the vehicle firmly in its lane, but its sharp adjustments can feel jarring on roads with poorly defined markings. A driver monitoring camera adds an extra layer of safety by detecting signs of fatigue, while speed alerts must be manually reactivated if turned off. Additionally, the one-pedal driving mode offers minimal regenerative braking, requiring more frequent use of the brake pedal in stop-and-go traffic. Despite these quirks, the system is well-suited for long highway drives.

Crash Protection and Build Quality

Safety is a key focus in the Zeekr 009’s design. In C-NCAP testing, the 2024 model scored an impressive 89.8% overall, with 90.48% for occupant protection, 78.19% for vulnerable road users, and 95.09% for active safety. The vehicle’s structure includes a single-piece die-cast aluminum rear underbody, produced using a 7,200-ton die-casting machine. This design reduces welding points by nearly 800, improving overall rigidity.

The battery is safeguarded by the "Ten Grids" system, which uses 133 mm aluminum side impact beams to shield it during collisions. The roof is engineered to support up to 13 tons – enough to bear the weight of a small truck. Inside the cabin, safety is further enhanced by seven airbags, including 70-liter side curtain airbags that span 2.7 meters (8.9 feet) across all three rows. A center airbag also helps prevent head collisions between front-seat occupants. Visibility is improved with a double A-pillar design featuring curved glass, which minimizes blind spots without compromising structural strength.

For African roads, where pedestrians, cyclists, and even livestock are common, these safety features – combined with the advanced camera system – add an extra layer of protection.

"The Ultimate Safety feature covers just about every aspect of vehicle safety than one could imagine." – Lee Pang Seng

Suitability for African Markets

Operating Costs and Maintenance

The Zeekr 009 stands out as a cost-effective alternative to traditional gasoline or diesel MPVs, particularly as fuel prices continue to climb across Africa. Its efficient energy consumption results in noticeably lower running costs, whether charged at home or through commercial charging stations. With extended maintenance intervals – every two years or 24,855 miles (40,000 km) – and no need for oil changes, spark plugs, or transmission repairs, the electric powertrain significantly reduces service-related expenses.

In Kenya, government policies make the 009 even more appealing. The excise duty on electric vehicles (EVs) has been cut from 20% to 10%, and EVs are exempt from VAT, which lowers the overall cost of ownership. Latiff Cherono, Chief Operations Officer at Gearbox Europlacer, highlights this advantage:

"owners of EVs or e-motorbikes can earn profit margins of up to $700"

in markets like Kenya. However, buyers should be aware of warranty terms: private owners typically enjoy a five-year unlimited warranty, while commercial users – common for executive transport – may have coverage limited to three years or 74,565 miles (120,000 km). These cost savings make the Zeekr 009 a versatile option for a range of applications across Africa.

Use Cases in Africa

Thanks to its durable design and advanced suspension system, the Zeekr 009 is well-equipped to handle Africa’s diverse road conditions. It’s an excellent fit for executive fleets, government transport, and families or professionals seeking a combination of luxury and reliability. The adjustable dual-chamber air suspension ensures a smooth ride over potholes and speed bumps, making it suitable for poorly maintained roads. Features like a dust-resistant Nappa leather interior and a built-in smart fridge capable of cooling to -6°C (21°F) enhance its practicality for the African climate.

For intercity travel, the 009 offers a real-world range of about 292 miles (470 km), though planning for charging stops is essential in areas where infrastructure is still developing. The premium business-class interior is designed to meet the needs of high-end transport services, including hotel shuttles, VIP airport transfers, and corporate travel.

Pricing and Availability

The Zeekr 009’s pricing and availability further highlight its potential in African markets. Costs vary depending on import duties, taxes, and local incentives. In China, the 2024 model is priced between 439,000 and 789,000 RMB ($60,500 to $108,800 USD). In markets like Australia, the seven-seat model starts at approximately $89,000 USD. While additional import duties may apply in Africa, local EV incentives can help offset these costs.

To simplify the buying process, EV24.africa offers a seamless experience with transparent pricing, detailed vehicle specifications, and delivery to all 54 African nations. The platform features a range of new and used EVs from leading brands, including Zeekr, and provides clear information on battery range, charging options, and warranty terms. Buyers can also access financing solutions and expert advice on import regulations, charging infrastructure, and long-term costs. EV24.africa aims to make the transition to electric mobility in Africa as straightforward as possible with its comprehensive support and services.

Conclusion

The Zeekr 009 lives up to its reputation as a high-end electric MPV, combining impressive performance, luxury, and functionality. From its plush Nappa leather seating to a 30-speaker Yamaha audio system, it offers a premium experience. With a powerful 450 kW dual-motor setup, it accelerates from 0–62 mph in just 4.5 seconds, while its 140 kWh battery delivers an impressive range of up to 511 miles (CLTC).

Experts have praised its performance and comfort. Kez Casey from Drive.com.au remarked, "The Zeekr 009 people mover delivers exquisite luxury and comfort at a price beneath its closest rivals", highlighting its 8.2/10 expert rating and the smooth ride provided by advanced air suspension and CCD electromagnetic damping.

The vehicle’s flexible design – available in 4-, 6-, and 7-seat configurations – makes it suitable for various needs, from VIP transport to family trips. Features like the 3.3 kW Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability and an 8.6-liter smart fridge that cools to 21°F (–6°C) add to its practicality.

Through EV24.africa, buyers across all 54 African countries can easily access premium EVs, benefiting from transparent pricing, detailed specifications, financing options, and expert support for imports and charging infrastructure.

With a starting price of around $90,000 USD, the Zeekr 009 offers an enticing option for those seeking ultra-luxury electric mobility. It seamlessly combines exceptional craftsmanship, advanced technology, and practical features, making it an attractive choice for buyers ready to invest in premium transportation.

FAQs

Why is the Zeekr 009 a good fit for Africa’s diverse road conditions?

The Zeekr 009 is built to tackle Africa’s diverse and often rugged road conditions with confidence. With its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, it maintains solid traction on everything from dirt paths to uneven terrain. Plus, the 108 kWh battery delivers an impressive range of about 362 miles, which means fewer stops for charging – an essential advantage in regions where charging stations may be scarce.

Comfort isn’t sacrificed, either. The car’s air suspension with electromagnetic damping smooths out bumps and potholes, ensuring a steady and comfortable ride, even on rough roads. Its 20-inch wheels and long wheelbase add to its stability, while the large windows provide excellent visibility. Despite its size, the Zeekr 009 is surprisingly easy to handle, even on narrow or uneven streets. Altogether, these features make it a dependable and luxurious option for navigating Africa’s challenging roads.

How does the Zeekr 009 support charging in Africa’s growing EV market?

The Zeekr 009 comes equipped with high-power DC fast-charging, making it a great choice for long-distance travel across Africa. Its 116 kWh battery delivers up to 205 kW of peak charging power, letting you add roughly 200 miles of range in just 30 minutes. With a WLTP range of 361 miles and a maximum tested range of 511 miles, it’s built to handle extended road trips with fewer charging stops.

Africa’s EV charging network is growing quickly, with more solar-powered fast-charging stations being installed. These stations, compatible with the Zeekr 009’s CCS connector, combined with the vehicle’s fast-charging capabilities, provide reliable options for recharging – even in areas where EV infrastructure is still catching up.

What makes the Zeekr 009 stand out as a luxury electric MPV?

The Zeekr 009 brings a touch of luxury to the electric MPV world, offering features you’d typically associate with high-end sedans or even private jets. Step inside, and you’re greeted by full-grain Nappa leather, a suede headliner, and customizable ambient lighting that sets a sophisticated and welcoming tone.

The second-row seats are where the magic truly happens, transforming into a “Business-Class” lounge mode. With 14-way adjustments, built-in leg rests, and options for heating, ventilation, and massage, these seats are designed for maximum comfort.

Entertainment is no afterthought either. A 17-inch fold-down screen pairs seamlessly with a 30-speaker Yamaha surround-sound system, creating an immersive audio-visual experience. Add in retractable tray tables, a sleek digital control interface, and an advanced air suspension system, and the Zeekr 009 delivers a smooth, luxurious ride that redefines what an electric MPV can be.