Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Zeekr is making its flagship people mover more accessible with a new front-wheel drive (FWD) variant of the 009. Priced at $115,900 before on-road costs, this entry-level model undercuts its all-wheel drive counterpart by $20,000.
This move puts Zeekr in closer competition with rivals like Volkswagen’s ID. Buzz GTX LWB ($109,990 before on-roads) and the LDV MIFA 9 Executive ($115,000 before on-roads). While still not cheap, the lower price point could significantly broaden the appeal of this luxurious seven-seater EV.
Compromises for Affordability
To achieve this lower price tag, the FWD model makes a few key compromises. It ditches all-wheel drive in favor of a single electric motor producing 250kW and 373Nm of torque, resulting in a less sporty driving experience compared to the dual-motor AWD version’s 4.5-second 0-100km/h sprint time. The FWD variant takes 7.9 seconds to reach this speed, still respectable for its size but noticeably slower.
However, this change brings a significant benefit: extended electric range. Sharing the same 116kWh battery pack as the AWD models, the 009 FWD claims a WLTP-certified range of 604km – surpassing both the ID. Buzz GTX and the LDV MIFA 9.
Luxury Features Remain Intact
Despite its lower price, Zeekr emphasizes that the FWD model retains all the luxurious appointments found in its more expensive siblings. This includes:
- Spacious interior: The 009 comfortably accommodates seven passengers in a 2+2+3 configuration with Nappa leather upholstery and features like ventilated and massaging second-row seats.
- Advanced tech: A comprehensive suite of features is standard, including a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a large 15.05-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 35.95-inch augmented reality head-up display, and a massive 17-inch rear-seat entertainment screen.
- Premium sound and comfort: A 30-speaker, 3000W Yamaha audio system delivers an immersive experience, while tri-zone climate control ensures passenger comfort.
- Additional conveniences: The FWD model boasts features like a refrigerator with both cooling and heating functions, a wireless phone charger, and multiple driving modes tailored for various situations (Sentry, Child, Pet, Camp, Incognito, and Stress Relief).
Styling Subtleties
While it shares the overall design language with its AWD counterparts, the entry-level 009 FWD differentiates itself with a more limited color palette (Phantom Black or Crystal White) and slightly smaller 19-inch alloy wheels compared to the 20-inch wheels on the higher trims.
The launch of this more affordable Zeekr 009 underscores the growing trend towards bringing high-end electric vehicles into a wider price range, potentially attracting new buyers considering eco-friendly transportation options without sacrificing luxury and practicality. Zeekr’s commitment to Australian deliveries and model stability in the near future suggests the brand is serious about establishing its foothold in this market segment.
