The Australian automotive landscape is about to witness something extraordinary. Zeekr, the premium Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, is preparing to revolutionize the local market with an unprecedented 1030kW hybrid SUV that promises to redefine performance expectations. This isn’t just another electric vehicle story – it’s about a brand that’s boldly expanding beyond pure EVs to offer Australians the ultimate in hybrid technology.
For car enthusiasts and eco-conscious drivers alike, Zeekr’s expansion into plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) represents a fascinating shift. The company, which has built its reputation on pure electric vehicles, is now embracing hybrid powertrains to meet diverse Australian driving needs. This strategic move addresses range anxiety while delivering the environmental benefits that modern drivers seek.
The Monster: Zeekr 9X and Its Incredible 1030kW Power
At the heart of Zeekr’s hybrid expansion sits the remarkable 9X SUV, a technological marvel that combines a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with three electric motors. This isn’t your typical hybrid setup – we’re talking about a system that produces a staggering 1030kW of combined power, making it one of the most powerful SUVs ever conceived.
The engineering behind this beast is genuinely impressive. The 9X features a 70kWh battery – larger than many pure electric vehicles – sourced from CATL and built on a 900V electrical architecture. This setup enables the SUV to sprint from 0-100km/h in just 3.1 seconds, with a top speed of 240km/h. These figures put it in supercar territory while maintaining the practicality of a large family SUV.
What makes this even more remarkable is the electric-only range of up to 380km on the CLTC cycle, combined with a total driving range exceeding 1000km when the petrol engine kicks in. For Australian families who need to cover vast distances between cities, this represents the perfect compromise between electric efficiency and long-range capability.
Why Zeekr Is Embracing Hybrids in Australia
Zeekr’s decision to introduce hybrid vehicles to the Australian market isn’t random – it’s a calculated response to local driving conditions and consumer preferences. While the brand has built its reputation on pure electric vehicles like the X compact SUV and 009 luxury people mover, market research has shown that many Australian buyers still have concerns about electric-only range.
Tony Zhou, Zeekr’s global product marketing director, explains the strategic thinking: “When introducing a new model to Australia in 2026, we need to look at the powertrain and segment. We have BEV, big SUV, small SUV, hatchbacks, hybrids and PHEVs in our pocket.”
This diversification strategy acknowledges that Australia’s vast distances and developing charging infrastructure make plug-in hybrids an attractive proposition for many buyers. The technology offers the best of both worlds – daily electric driving for urban commutes, with petrol backup for longer journeys.
The Lynk & Co Connection
Adding another layer to Zeekr’s hybrid strategy is the potential integration of Lynk & Co vehicles into the Australian lineup. Lynk & Co, another Geely Group brand specializing in hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles, could arrive in Australia as early as 2026, possibly wearing Zeekr badging.
The Lynk & Co 08 SUV stands out as a particularly interesting prospect, featuring a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a 39.6kWh battery pack that delivers up to 245km of electric-only range. If these specifications are maintained for the Australian market, it would offer the longest electric range of any plug-in hybrid currently available locally.
Technical Specifications That Matter
| Feature | Zeekr 9X PHEV |
|---|---|
| Total System Power | 1030kW |
| Engine | 2.0L Turbocharged Petrol (205kW) |
| Electric Motors | Three Motors (290kW front, 370kW rear) |
| Battery Capacity | 70kWh |
| Electric Range | Up to 380km (CLTC) |
| Total Range | Over 1000km |
| 0-100km/h | 3.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | 240km/h |
| Fast Charging | 20-80% in 9 minutes |
| Architecture | 900V System |
| Ground Clearance | Up to 288mm |
| Dimensions | 5239mm x 2029mm x 1819mm |
Advanced Technology and Luxury Features
The 9X isn’t just about raw power – it’s packed with technology that positions it as a legitimate competitor to Range Rover, Porsche Cayenne, and Mercedes EQS SUV. The vehicle features dual-chamber air suspension, allowing for a maximum ground clearance of 288mm, making it capable both on-road and off-road.
Driver assistance technology includes five LiDAR units, five 4D millimetre-wave radars, 12 ultrasonic sensors, 13 high-definition cameras, and two wading cameras. This comprehensive sensor suite enables Level 3 autonomous driving capability, putting it at the forefront of automotive technology.
Inside, passengers are treated to a luxury experience featuring captain’s chairs in the second row, a large landscape-oriented infotainment touchscreen, and premium materials including prominent wood inlays. The clamshell tailgate and Mercedes-Benz-like power seat controls on the doors add to the premium feel.
Performance Modes and Capabilities
The 9X offers multiple driving experiences through selectable comfort, eco, and sport drive modes, plus seven additional terrain modes: grass, snow, deep snow, mud, sand, rocks, and mountain roads. This versatility ensures the vehicle can handle Australia’s diverse driving conditions, from city streets to outback adventures.
The 48V active stabiliser bar – claimed to be a first for a Chinese brand – works alongside the advanced suspension system to deliver both comfort and dynamic performance. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or tackling challenging terrain, the 9X promises to deliver.
Market Positioning and Competition
Zeekr is positioning itself differently from other Chinese manufacturers in Australia. Unlike MG and BYD, which focus primarily on affordability, Zeekr targets the premium and luxury segments. This strategy puts it in direct competition with established European brands while offering potentially better value and more advanced technology.
The 9X, expected to be priced around $200,000, will compete directly with vehicles like the BMW X7, Mercedes GLS, and Range Rover. However, with its 1030kW power output and advanced hybrid technology, it offers performance figures that exceed most traditional luxury SUVs.
Current Zeekr models in Australia include the X compact SUV (priced from $56,900) and the 009 luxury people mover. The upcoming 7X mid-size SUV will arrive in 2025, creating a comprehensive lineup that covers multiple market segments.
The Broader Strategy
Zeekr’s expansion into hybrids reflects broader market trends and regulatory pressures. Australia’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) is driving manufacturers to offer more fuel-efficient options, and plug-in hybrids provide an excellent transition technology for buyers not ready to commit fully to electric vehicles.
The brand has already demonstrated strong performance in other markets, ranking as the number one premium auto brand in Hong Kong and among the top five premium brands in Thailand and Israel. This international success suggests strong potential for the Australian market.
What This Means for Australian Drivers
For Australian consumers, Zeekr’s hybrid expansion offers exciting new options in the premium SUV space. The 1030kW 9X represents a technological showcase that combines supercar performance with SUV practicality and environmental responsibility.
The 380km electric range means most daily driving can be completed on electric power alone, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. For longer trips – common in Australia’s vast landscape – the petrol engine provides confidence and convenience without range anxiety.
The 9-minute fast charging capability (20-80%) addresses one of the main concerns about electric and hybrid vehicles. Even if you need to charge during a long journey, the ultra-fast charging means minimal disruption to your travel plans.
Infrastructure Considerations
While Zeekr’s hybrid vehicles reduce dependence on charging infrastructure compared to pure EVs, the availability of fast charging remains important for maximizing the electric driving benefits. Australia’s charging network continues to expand, with major investments from both government and private sector supporting the transition to electrified transport.
The 900V architecture in the 9X is future-proofed for the next generation of ultra-fast charging infrastructure, ensuring compatibility with the fastest charging speeds as they become available.
Timeline and Availability
Zeekr has confirmed that a third SUV will join its Australian lineup in 2026, though the company hasn’t officially confirmed whether this will be the 9X. The decision depends partly on demand projections and the business case for right-hand drive production.
Melvyn Low, Zeekr Australia’s head of product, indicates that the brand is still evaluating whether to introduce hybrid models as separate entities or integrate them under the Zeekr umbrella. The potential merger with Lynk & Co adds complexity but also opportunities for a more comprehensive hybrid offering.
Pre-sales for the 9X are expected to begin in China in 2025, with international markets following afterward. Australian buyers interested in the technology should expect availability sometime in 2026 or 2027, depending on regulatory approvals and market demand.
The Environmental Impact
Zeekr’s hybrid strategy represents a pragmatic approach to reducing transportation emissions. While pure electric vehicles offer zero local emissions, plug-in hybrids like the 9X can significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions compared to traditional petrol vehicles.
The 380km electric range means that many drivers could operate in electric-only mode for weeks at a time, only using the petrol engine for longer trips. This usage pattern can result in dramatic reductions in fuel consumption and emissions compared to conventional SUVs of similar size and performance.
The 70kWh battery can be charged using renewable energy sources, further reducing the environmental impact. As Australia’s electricity grid becomes cleaner with increasing renewable energy generation, the environmental benefits of plug-in hybrids will continue to improve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. When will the Zeekr 9X be available in Australia?
A. The 9X is expected to arrive in Australia around 2026-2027, pending final decisions on right-hand drive production and market demand assessments.
Q. How much will the Zeekr 9X cost in Australia?
A. While official pricing hasn’t been announced, industry experts predict the 9X will be priced around $200,000, positioning it against premium luxury SUVs.
Q. What’s the real-world electric range of the 9X?
A. The 9X offers up to 380km of electric-only range on the CLTC cycle, though real-world range will likely be somewhat lower depending on driving conditions and usage patterns.
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