Thabo Nkosi 
The Zeekr 001 is an electric shooting brake that combines sporty looks, high performance, and practical design. Built on Geely‘s SEA platform, it offers a range of configurations, including a 272 hp RWD model with a 385-mile range and an AWD version delivering 544 hp. A top-tier quad-motor variant produces 1,265 hp, accelerating from 0-62 mph in just 2.02 seconds.
Key features include a 94 kWh battery supporting fast charging (10-80% in 30 minutes), a spacious cabin, and a cargo capacity of up to 75.7 cubic feet. With seven driving modes and adjustable air suspension, it handles various terrains well, making it suitable for diverse conditions, including those in Africa. Pricing starts around $61,800 in the UAE.
Inside, the Zeekr 001 boasts luxury finishes, a 15.4-inch touchscreen, and advanced safety systems like LiDAR and ADAS. It also supports V2L functionality, allowing the car to power external devices. With a sleek design, competitive pricing, and advanced features, the Zeekr 001 stands out as a strong contender in the EV market.
Zeekr 001 Model Comparison: Specs, Performance and Range
Design, Comfort, and Practicality
Exterior Design and Aerodynamics
The Zeekr 001 combines the elegance of a coupe with the practicality of a wagon, thanks to its shooting brake silhouette. Its bold lines, sloping roofline, and sculpted flanks create a compact yet striking profile, complete with oversized wheels that give it a toy-like charm. But it’s not just about aesthetics – Zeekr engineers conducted over 1,000 simulations to achieve an impressive drag coefficient of 0.23 cd, optimizing both energy efficiency and high-speed stability.
Standout exterior features include "frog-eye" intelligent matrix LED headlights with 64 independently controlled LEDs and a 1.47-meter (4.8-foot) full-width 3D tail light bar. Frameless doors with radar-based obstacle detection and recessed pop-out handles elevate its premium appeal. Buyers can also customize their ride with 21-inch or 22-inch forged lightweight wheels. The body’s torsional rigidity reaches 30,000 Nm/degree, meeting the standards of high-performance vehicles. This attention to detail flows seamlessly into its interior design.
Interior Features and Comfort
Step inside, and you’ll find a cabin filled with Monaco NAPPA full-grain leather and Alcantara accents, complemented by copper or rose gold trim. Greg Potts of Top Gear described the interior as:
"a genuinely nice place to be,"
emphasizing the high-quality materials and craftsmanship. At the center of the dashboard is a 15.4-inch touchscreen (with a 30-degree swivel available on select 2025 models), paired with an 8.8-inch instrument cluster and a massive 24.3-inch augmented reality head-up display – one of the largest in any production car.
Comfort features include heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats (available on Privilege trims), along with a rear touchscreen (7.7 to 8 inches) for passengers to control individual climate zones. The three-zone intelligent climate control system, equipped with N95 air filtration and AQS air quality detection, is ideal for tackling dusty or polluted conditions. For entertainment, a 12-speaker Yamaha surround sound system delivers a premium audio experience, while 64-color ambient lighting allows for a customizable atmosphere. The cabin’s luxury is matched by its practical design.
Cargo Space and Utility
The Zeekr 001’s shooting brake design offers an impressive 539 liters (19 cubic feet) of cargo space with the seats upright. Fold the rear seats flat, and the capacity expands to a whopping 2,144 liters (75.7 cubic feet), putting it on par with many full-size SUVs.
A wide trunk opening and low loading height make it easier to load bulky items, while the flat load floor enhances usability. With a generous 3,000 mm (118.1-inch) wheelbase, rear legroom is comparable to luxury sedans like the BMW 7 Series, ensuring passengers enjoy a comfortable experience even on long trips.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Powertrain Options and Acceleration
The Zeekr 001 offers three configurations, each designed to suit different performance preferences. The Long Range RWD model is equipped with a single rear motor generating 200 kW (272 hp) and 343 Nm of torque, enabling it to go from 0 to 62 mph in 7.2 seconds. For those seeking more power, the Performance AWD version features dual motors that deliver 400 kW (544 hp) and 686 Nm of torque, achieving the same acceleration in just 3.8 seconds. At the top of the range, the 001 FR packs a phenomenal 930 kW (1,265 hp) and 1,280 Nm of torque, rocketing from 0 to 62 mph in a mere 2.1 seconds. This model also holds Guinness World Records for the fastest drift (129 mph) and slalom. All models have an electronically capped top speed of 124 mph, though some AWD variants can reach up to 149 mph. The driving experience is further refined by the SEA1-based chassis and adaptive suspension, which enhance both agility and ride comfort.
Handling, Suspension, and Braking
Built on Geely’s SEA1 platform, the Zeekr 001 boasts a torsional rigidity of 30,000 Nm/degree, putting it on par with the Porsche 911. This sturdy chassis provides a stable and confident feel, especially at highway speeds. However, the vehicle’s weight – ranging from 4,850 lbs for the RWD model to 5,170 lbs for the AWD – does make its presence felt.
The base RWD version features steel springs, delivering a softer, more relaxed ride that suits long-distance cruising. While it handles minor road imperfections well, larger bumps can make the ride feel unsettled. The Privilege AWD trim addresses this with active air suspension, which dynamically adjusts ride height and damping based on terrain and driving mode. This system significantly enhances stability and comfort on rough or uneven roads. However, the ABS calibration could use some fine-tuning for better performance on challenging surfaces. The regenerative braking system, available in Standard and High modes, allows for energy recovery, but even at its highest setting, it doesn’t fully enable one-pedal driving and can be tricky to modulate smoothly. Together, these features create a driving experience that balances comfort and control, ready for a variety of road conditions.
Driving Modes for African Roads
The Zeekr 001’s versatility shines through its seven driving modes: Comfort, Economy, Sport, Snow, Sand, Off-road, and Personalized. These modes tweak throttle response, steering feel, and – on models with air suspension – ride height and damping to suit different terrains. For regions like Africa, where drivers often face loose gravel, sandy paths, or poorly maintained rural roads, the Sand and Off-road modes are especially practical.
In urban environments, the vehicle operates quietly, delivering smooth and instantaneous power. On highways, it transforms into a refined cruiser, maintaining a stable and composed demeanor even at high speeds. The AWD system ensures excellent traction and stability on slippery or uneven surfaces, while the suspension effectively absorbs bumps and rough patches. Additionally, the Zeekr 001 offers a braked towing capacity of 4,409 lbs and a 3.3 kW Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) output. These features are particularly handy for powering external devices in areas with unreliable electricity.
Battery, Range, and Charging
Battery Options and Chemistry
The Zeekr 001 comes with two main battery options: a 100 kWh NMC pack, known for its high energy density, and a 95 kWh "Golden Battery" with LFP chemistry, designed to handle hot climates with greater durability. The LFP battery is particularly effective in high-temperature environments, making it a smart choice for warmer regions. Additionally, a special edition of the Zeekr 001 features a 140 kWh CATL Qilin battery, offering an impressive range of over 620 miles (CLTC).
To ensure optimal performance, the vehicle is equipped with a thermal management system that includes a heat pump and recovers waste heat from the powertrain. This system helps maintain the battery’s ideal temperature, even in extreme conditions. The latest 2025–2026 models have upgraded from 400V to 800V and 900V architectures, which not only improve charging speeds but also reduce heat buildup during ultra-fast charging sessions. These options highlight the Zeekr 001’s adaptability to different driving needs and conditions.
Range and Energy Efficiency
The Zeekr 001’s range is impressive across its configurations. According to WLTP ratings, the Long Range RWD model achieves 385 miles, while the AWD version offers 360 miles. In real-world conditions, the average range is about 329 miles, though urban driving can push it to 420 miles. However, colder temperatures (–7°C/19°F) can reduce the range to around 209 miles.
Energy consumption varies depending on driving style. Under normal conditions, the vehicle uses about 21.6 kWh per 62 miles, but this can climb to 32.9 kWh during aggressive driving. The shooting brake’s 0.23 drag coefficient further enhances its highway efficiency. Combined with a ground clearance of approximately 6.9 inches and a softer suspension, the Zeekr 001 maintains energy efficiency even on rough terrain by absorbing impacts more effectively. This makes it a practical option for long trips, especially in areas where charging stations might be sparse.
Charging Standards and Times
The Zeekr 001’s advanced battery chemistry and thermal management system enable rapid charging capabilities. It supports CCS Combo 2 for DC fast charging and Type 2 for AC charging. Thanks to the 900V architecture, the Golden Battery can charge from 10% to 80% in just 7 minutes at superchargers, while the 103 kWh CATL Qilin pack achieves the same in 10 minutes. For standard 400V models, an 80% charge takes about 29 minutes at 200 kW, with peak charging speeds reaching up to 546 kW.
"The in-house Zeekr Golden Battery with a capacity of 95 kWh can thus be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in just seven minutes." – Florian Treiß, Electrive
For home charging, a 22 kW three-phase AC charger can fully charge the battery in 3–4 hours, while an 11 kW charger takes about 8 hours. This flexibility makes the Zeekr 001 convenient for both fast charging at public stations and overnight charging at home, particularly in areas where high-power DC fast chargers are less common.
Luxury estate for half the price? Zeekr 001 driving REVIEW
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Technology, Safety, and African Market Fit
The Zeekr 001 combines cutting-edge technology, advanced safety systems, and thoughtful design to tackle the unique challenges of African roads.
Infotainment and Connectivity
At the heart of the Zeekr 001’s interior is a 15.4-inch central touchscreen (upgraded to 16 inches in 2025 models) that swivels up to 30°, paired with an 8.8-inch instrument cluster, an optional head-up display, and an 8-inch rear touchscreen for climate and entertainment controls. For seamless navigation across Africa’s diverse regions, the system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Audio options include an 8-speaker setup or an enhanced 11-speaker Yamaha system with a subwoofer for an immersive listening experience.
One feature that stands out is the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, which allows the car to power household appliances or external devices directly. In response to user feedback, the 2025 model replaced haptic steering wheel controls with physical buttons, offering a more tactile and user-friendly experience. However, some reviewers have noted that the interface’s numerous sub-menus can make navigation more complex than necessary.
Driver Assistance and Safety Features
The Zeekr 001 shines in safety, earning a five-star Euro NCAP rating with an 89% score for adult occupant protection and 88% for child safety. The 2025 model employs dual Nvidia Drive Orin-X processors, capable of an impressive 508 TOPS, boosting scenario recognition by 120%. This is achieved through a network of 28 sensors, including 11 8-megapixel cameras and a LiDAR sensor.
The inclusion of the Zeekr AD system with LiDAR significantly enhances environmental awareness, particularly in challenging conditions like rain, fog, or poorly marked roads – common in many parts of Africa. With 21 advanced driver-assistance features (ADAS), such as adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation, and evasive maneuver assist, the Zeekr 001 is well-equipped for diverse driving scenarios. However, some users have reported that the driver monitoring and lane-keep assist systems can be overly sensitive, occasionally reacting to minor hand movements or brief distractions. These features underscore the vehicle’s focus on safety, making it a strong contender for regions with varying road and weather conditions.
Market Availability and Climate Adaptation
The Zeekr 001 debuted in Egypt in February 2025, priced at EGP 2.7 million (~$87,500), and in the UAE, where the RWD Long Range starts at AED 226,900 (~$61,800), and the AWD Flagship begins at AED 271,900 (~$74,000).
"Entering Egypt marks a significant milestone in ZEEKR’s global expansion and its first step into the African market." – ZEEKR
Equipped with seven driving modes, including Sand, Off-road, and Snow, the Zeekr 001 is built to handle Africa’s varied terrains. Its adaptive systems and specialized modes ensure reliable traction and performance across challenging landscapes. Inside, the cabin features Monaco NAPPA leather, which is dust-proof and stain-resistant – an ideal choice for arid environments. These thoughtful additions make the Zeekr 001 a practical and appealing option for drivers navigating Africa’s diverse conditions.
Purchasing the Zeekr 001 through EV24.africa
After diving into the impressive features of the Zeekr 001, it’s time to explore how acquiring one is just as forward-thinking as the car itself. EV24.africa simplifies the buying process, offering everything from transparent listings to coordinated delivery across the continent. The platform tackles the challenges African buyers often face when importing high-end EVs, managing the complex logistics that can overwhelm individual importers. With the Zeekr 001’s performance and technology in mind, EV24.africa ensures that owning this premium EV is a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Vehicle Listings and Pricing
EV24.africa provides clear and straightforward pricing displayed in both U.S. dollars and local currencies, making it easier for buyers to compare costs. Listings feature detailed specifications for all three Zeekr 001 variants – Long Range RWD, Performance AWD, and Flagship AWD. Buyers can review key details like battery capacity, driving range, acceleration times, and included features. This level of transparency helps buyers understand the full cost and any regional pricing differences before making a decision.
Financing and Delivery Support
EV24.africa goes beyond just providing pricing – it also offers flexible financing and delivery solutions. Buyers can access custom financing plans, making the significant upfront cost of a premium EV like the Zeekr 001 more manageable. The platform also handles shipping and delivery to all 54 African countries, taking care of import procedures, customs clearance, and even last-mile delivery. On average, delivery timelines for the Zeekr 001 in emerging markets are around 14 weeks from prepayment confirmation, although exact times can vary depending on the destination and inventory availability.
Selling and Dealer Opportunities
For those looking to sell or expand their automotive business, EV24.africa provides opportunities for both individual sellers and dealers. Individual sellers can use the free Basic Listing option for single vehicles, while dealers can opt for customized Dealer Plans. These plans include features like bulk listings, branding options, and priority placement, helping to build a local secondary market for the Zeekr 001. By supporting both new and used sales, the platform not only makes it easier for buyers to find their ideal car but also creates opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow their businesses within the EV market.
Conclusion
The Zeekr 001 brings together performance, practicality, and eco-conscious features tailored for African buyers. With the Performance AWD variant delivering an impressive 400 kW (544 hp) and accelerating from 0–62 mph in just 3.8 seconds, it offers thrilling speed. At the same time, its shooting brake design ensures ample cargo space, making it a versatile choice for both high-performance driving and everyday needs.
Equipped with a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating, 22 kW AC charging, and a V2L output of 3.3 kW – perfect for powering appliances during outages – the Zeekr 001 addresses a variety of regional requirements. Its real-world range of approximately 298 miles also helps ease concerns about long-distance travel.
"The Zeekr 001 is often compared to the Porsche Panamera. I can see why, it’s stylish and handles great, offering a lot of virtues of the Panamera in a package that’s about half the price." – Kevin Williams, InsideEVs
FAQs
Why is the Zeekr 001 well-suited for African roads?
The Zeekr 001 is crafted to tackle Africa’s diverse and often rugged road conditions with confidence. Thanks to its optional air suspension, the car can boost its ground clearance and automatically adapt to uneven surfaces. Whether you’re navigating potholes, gravel roads, or unpaved trails, the suspension ensures a smooth and steady ride. For those tougher terrains, the dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) version delivers up to 544 horsepower and instant torque, giving you solid traction and control on slippery, sandy, or steep paths.
This vehicle is built on Zeekr’s cutting-edge SEA platform, featuring a robust chassis designed to handle heavy loads and extreme temperature changes. It’s a car that thrives in challenging climates. Equipped with a 100 kWh battery, the Zeekr 001 offers an impressive range of approximately 460 miles on a single charge. Plus, its 800V fast-charging system lets you go from 10% to 80% charge in under 30 minutes – perfect for long journeys, even in remote areas with limited charging options. With its blend of performance, durability, and adaptability, the Zeekr 001 stands out as a reliable choice for those exploring Africa’s roads.
How fast does the Zeekr 001 charge compared to other electric vehicles?
The Zeekr 001 sets itself apart with its blazing-fast charging speeds, capable of reaching 546 kW. This means you can charge the battery from 10% to 80% in less than 12 minutes – a huge leap compared to the more common 150–250 kW charging rates found in most electric vehicles. While many other EVs cap their charging speeds at around 200 kW, the Zeekr 001 clearly raises the bar for rapid charging performance.
What are the key performance differences between the Zeekr 001 models?
The Zeekr 001 caters to a variety of driving preferences with its range of performance options. The base model comes equipped with a single-motor rear-wheel-drive system, offering approximately 268 horsepower – perfect for those who value a balanced and efficient drive.
If you’re after more power, the dual-motor all-wheel-drive version steps it up with about 536 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, delivering a thrilling boost in performance.
For the true performance enthusiasts, the quad-motor FR trim takes things to the next level, producing an astonishing 930 kW (roughly 1,250 horsepower). On top of that, there’s a limited-edition variant featuring a 140 kWh battery, which not only boasts up to 1,248 horsepower but also offers an impressive range of up to 640 miles.
With these options, the Zeekr 001 stands out as a versatile electric vehicle, whether your focus is on efficiency or jaw-dropping power.
