Chinese EV maker Zeekr plugs in to hybrids to tap into soaring sales, expand model range


Zeekr, a premium electric vehicle (EV) unit of Geely Auto, has jumped on the hybrid technology bandwagon to widen its customer base amid rising competition in the world’s largest automotive market.
The Hangzhou-based company has become the latest mainland Chinese EV assembler to launch plug-in hybrids, leaving Shanghai-headquartered Nio as the only domestic company making pure EVs.

US carmaker Tesla, which produces cars on the mainland, is another maker of pure EVs.

“Nearly all Chinese carmakers have a diverse product portfolio to compete against Tesla now,” said Gao Shen, an independent analyst in Shanghai. “Plug-in cars target some customers who are either budget conscious or nervous about electric cars’ range.”

The 9X, Zeekr’s first hybrid model, will use the Freevoy Super Hybrid battery produced by Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL), giving the SUV a range of 380km. Hybrid cars normally utilise the battery for short distances ranging from 100km to 200km, and switch to fuel for longer drives.

10:08

How Chinese companies have pulled ahead of Tesla in the electric vehicle race

How Chinese companies have pulled ahead of Tesla in the electric vehicle race

Zeekr said in a statement on Wednesday that its hybrid technology “sets new standards for long-range plug-in hybrid [cars], including best-in-class charging speeds, acceleration and vibration control for both highway cruising and urban experiences”.

  • Related Posts

    Mercedes-Benz says all BS VI petrol cars are fully compatible – Firstpost

    Mercedes-Benz India reaffirmed that all its petrol BS VI vehicles are fully compatible with E20 petrol, issuing a customer advisory after a viral social media video reignited public debate over…

    Continue reading
    Geopolitical turmoil prompts South Africa’s biggest strategic oil reserve push since the 1970s – Firstpost

    South Africa is preparing its largest expansion of strategic petroleum reserves in nearly five decades, reviving an energy security policy first adopted during the apartheid era as geopolitical tensions and…

    Continue reading

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published.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