Zeekr partially reveals its Tesla Model Y rival

Zeekr has kicked off the marketing campaign for a new electric SUV, releasing the first pictures showing it wrapped in camouflage. Codenamed ‘CX1E,’ with rumours of the final name being ‘Ark,’ the upcoming model will challenge the Tesla Model Y.

Image: Zeekr

Media reports say Zeekr has developed the Ark on the same platform as the 007 sedan – PMA2, derived from Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA). The Ark reportedly measures 4.7 metres in length, which makes it comparable to the Tesla Model Y (4.751 mm/4.8 metres).

Zeekr will likely offer the Ark in rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive variants, with one motor producing 310 kW and 440 Nm of torque in the former and two motors developing 475 of system power and 710 Nm of total torque in the latter. It could also install its indigenously developed 75 kWh LFP battery pack, which it offers in the 007, in the Ark.

The Ark features a regular SUV shape but with offbeat and new-age features, such as sleek headlamps, flush-fitted retractable door handles, frameless door mirrors, a LiDAR sensor, and a slim, full-width tail lamp. A ‘Stargate’ light band similar to the 007 in the upper part of the front fascia could cover the whole width above the headlamps. The lower part here appears to have an active grille that remains closed until needed.

Zeekr plans to launch the Ark in China later this year. In line with its ambitious global plans, it may start selling the Tesla Model Y rival in international markets within a year of the domestic launch. It is present in nearly 30 mainstream foreign markets, including Sweden, the Netherlands, Thailand, and Mexico, and by the end of the year, it aims to expand its presence to 50 countries and regions.

In addition to the Ark, Zeekr is working on rolling out an electric MPV in China this year – the Mix MPV. By 2026, the company plans to launch seven new models in total.

weibo.com

1 Comment

about „Zeekr partially reveals its Tesla Model Y rival“
Rein
08.07.2024 um 15:48
This is not a Model Y competitor. It’s a competitor to the CR-V, RAV4, Tucson/Sportage, Rogue/X-Trail, Tiguan/Kodiaq, … Geely, BYD, & many of the Chinese automakers get it. They are not competing with Tesla, they are joining them in devouring global ICE auto sales. Whether the traditional automakers are ready or not. They can whine to their politicians to try and get tariff protections but the only thing that will save them it to innovate quickly. Tariffs work to offsetting lower labor costs. It won’t help make up for being technologically inferior.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *