Zeekr CEO An Conghui stated during an earnings call that Zeekr is developing a new electric-hybrid technology suited for larger class vehicles. This system will be used in large SUVs and MPVs, with specific hybrid models to debut at the Shanghai Auto Show in April of next year. Official launch is expected to be in the second half of next year.
The original mission of the Zeekr brand was to focus only on the pure electric sector. During an interview in August 2023 President of Geely Holdings Group and CEO of Zeekr, An Conghui stated the brand had no plans for hybrid models. In July 2024, An Conghui disclosed that while the company remained focused on the pure electric market, range-extended models were being considered.
Zeekr officially announced a shift to launch both pure electric and hybrid models in August 2024 during an earnings call. The brand will first launch a flagship SUV, which uses a newly developed hybrid system, and will be better for users in terms of power and range. An Conghui said the hybrid technology would allow the car to drive in EV mode at slow speeds and use the ICE drivetrain to provide power on highways.
Spy shots of a Zeekr 001 with a hybrid powertrain was spotted in China during road tests in September earlier this year. There were no apparent external differences on the hybrid test version of the Zeekr 001 and the recently launched production 2024 Zeekr 2024. A hybrid Zeekr 001 is expected to launch after Zeekr debuts its initial hybrid models.
Zeekr joins the array of pure EV makers like Avatr, Xpeng, and Nio, to begin offering hybrid models. Hybrid models have proven popular with Chinese consumers, evident in the huge success of Li Auto and Aito EREV models.
Originally Zeekr was created to focus on the pure electric market with its sister brand Lynk & Co focused on making ICE and PHEV vehicles. With the recent consolidation of the two brands under the Zeekr name, Geely unifies its high-end car brands under one umbrella to produce both BEVs and PHEVs to better compete in the cut-throat Chinese auto-market.
Sources: ITHome
