2026 Zeekr 001 Arrives with Advanced Features and Enhanced Range in China

The 2026 Zeekr 001 retains its distinctive fastback design, a hallmark of its previous models, but introduces several aesthetic updates. Notable changes include a redesigned front bumper featuring a horizontal grille pattern and reworked air ducts. At the rear, the bumper has been refined by removing the triangular reflectors, presenting a cleaner, more streamlined look. Additionally, Zeekr has expanded its color palette with two new shades, Mysterious Purple and Star Grey, while continuing to offer five other popular options. Inside, the vehicle has undergone a major transformation, emphasizing luxury and technological sophistication. A refreshed dashboard layout now includes a 16-inch 3.5K central touchscreen, a 13.02-inch digital cluster, and a 39.3-inch augmented reality head-up display (AR-HUD). Moreover, an 8-inch rear control display and a 256-color ambient lighting system enhance the interior's futuristic ambiance. The Zeekr Sound Max setup, featuring 29 speakers with a 4,680-watt output, is designed to provide an immersive audio experience.

Under the hood, the Zeekr 001 is built on a 900 V electrical architecture, a significant upgrade from its predecessor's 800 V system. This advancement allows for faster charging capabilities and improved energy efficiency. Dual-motor versions of the vehicle deliver an impressive combined output of 680 kW and 925 Nm of torque, enabling acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.83 seconds. The top speed is rated at 280 km/h. The vehicle's 103 kWh ternary-lithium battery supports a CLTC range of up to 810 km, making it one of the most range-efficient models in its class. Notably, the Zeekr 001 supports up to 12C charging rates, allowing a 10% to 80% recharge in only seven minutes, significantly reducing downtime during long journeys. All versions come equipped with a closed dual-chamber air suspension system, offering a maximum ride height of 206 mm and 85 mm of adjustability. This is complemented by CCD adaptive damping and Zeekr's proprietary 'Smart Magic Carpet' control system, which collectively enhance ride quality and vehicle handling.

A key highlight of the 2026 Zeekr 001 is its upgraded driver assistance technology, now featuring the H7 system. This system is powered by a Thor-U chip with 700 TOPS processing capability, integrating 31 sensors, including advanced LiDAR technology for enhanced safety and autonomous driving capabilities. The H7 system also includes "blue-light" status indicators to provide real-time feedback to drivers. Zeekr has announced plans to allow owners of previous 001 models equipped with LiDAR to upgrade to the H7 system through a crowdfunding initiative, set to launch in November. This move reflects Zeekr's commitment to ensuring its vehicles remain at the forefront of technological advancement, even post-purchase.

In the competitive landscape of premium electric vehicles, the 2026 Zeekr 001 positions itself against formidable rivals such as the Xpeng P7 and Xiaomi SU7. The introduction of a 900 V architecture not only enhances charging efficiency but also marks a leap forward in terms of overall vehicle performance. This feature is particularly attractive to consumers seeking minimal charging downtime, a critical factor in the growing EV market. The Zeekr 001's ability to charge from 10% to 80% in just seven minutes underscores its potential to redefine consumer expectations in terms of convenience and efficiency.

Price-wise, the Zeekr 001 is available in four variants, with prices ranging from 269,800 yuan to 329,800 yuan (approximately 37,900 to 46,400 USD). These options include the Max 95 kWh AWD, Max 103 kWh RWD, Ultra 103 kWh AWD, and Ultra+ 103 kWh AWD models. Orders placed before the end of the year are eligible for a 10,000-yuan trade-in subsidy, making the purchase more appealing to potential buyers. This strategic pricing and subsidy combination could play a crucial role in driving sales, particularly in a market where consumers are increasingly looking for value alongside technological innovation.

As the electric vehicle industry in China continues to evolve, the launch of the 2026 Zeekr 001 represents a significant milestone. With its cutting-edge features, including the 900 V architecture and the H7 driver assistance system, Zeekr is setting new benchmarks in both performance and safety. The brand's commitment to innovation, combined with strategic pricing and incentives, positions the Zeekr 001 as a strong contender in the premium EV segment. This launch not only highlights Zeekr's technological prowess but also its ability to adapt to consumer needs and market trends, potentially influencing future developments in the global electric vehicle market.