Zeekr 7X: A New Contender in the Premium Electric SUV Market

The Zeekr 7X, designed at Zeekr’s global design center in Gothenburg, Sweden, is making waves in the European electric vehicle market. Positioned as a competitor to established premium SUVs like the BMW iX3, Audi Q6 e-tron, Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ technology and Tesla Model Y, the 7X aims to disrupt the status quo with its advanced technology, fast charging capabilities, and premium interior.

Designed in Europe, Built in China

Zeekr, a Geely-owned brand founded five years ago as a direct response to Tesla, initially focused solely on electric models. While plug-in hybrids are available in China, only electric vehicles are currently offered in the Czech Republic through importer EVOO [Zeekr Europe]. The 7X’s design, spearheaded by a European team, deliberately avoids the aesthetic cues often associated with Chinese-manufactured vehicles.

Fast Charging and Impressive Range

The Zeekr 7X utilizes an 800V electrical architecture, enabling rapid DC fast charging. While 480kW charging isn’t yet widely available in the Czech Republic, the 7X can take advantage of the existing 400kW chargers, achieving charging times of under 19 minutes from 14% to 90% with an average output exceeding 252kW [InsideEVs]. The vehicle offers a range of up to 615km (approximately 382 miles) [Zeekr EU].

Interior Comfort and Technology

The 7X boasts a spacious interior with high-quality materials and a focus on technology. Rear passengers benefit from generous legroom, and the cabin features a fast, user-friendly, third-generation interface with 5G connectivity and 24/7 remote access via the Zeekr Companion App. The vehicle supports keyless entry via smartphone or watch (iOS, NFC capable). An optional package, priced at 89,990 crowns, adds features like ventilated and massaging front seats, Nappa leather upholstery, a 21-speaker audio system, a head-up display with augmented reality, and electric doors.

Driving Dynamics and Performance

The Zeekr 7X delivers a refined driving experience, aided by an adaptive air suspension that adjusts ground clearance in five different steps. The SUV’s 2.5-tonne weight and well-tuned chassis provide a comfortable ride, absorbing most road imperfections. Available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations, and with battery options of 75kWh or 100kWh, the 7X can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 3.8 seconds with the dual-motor all-wheel drive setup.

Pricing and Competition

The Zeekr 7X starts at 1,399,000 crowns for the rear-wheel-drive model with the smaller battery. The tested all-wheel-drive version, equipped with the 100kWh battery and the optional package, begins at 1,649,000 crowns. This positions it competitively against rivals such as the Audi Q6 e-tron (starting at 1,811,900 crowns), BMW iX3 (starting at 1,725,100 crowns), and Mercedes-Benz GLC 400 4Matic EQ (starting at 1,778,700 crowns). The Tesla Model Y remains a more affordable option, starting at 1,299,900 crowns for the long range version [InsideEVs].

Warranty and Service

Zeekr offers a standard warranty of five years or 100,000 km, with an eight-year/200,000 km warranty specifically for the battery. EVOO serves as the European headquarters for authorized service centers, ensuring all imported vehicles meet European specifications.