Testing? Market research? Advertising? A Chinese-made Zeekr 001 has been spotted on the streets of Cape Town – here is why.
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Produced under the familiar Geely nameplate, the Zeekr brand shares much of its DNA with other Chinese-made Lynk & Co creations. Originally released in China in October of 2021, the Zeekr 001 claims to be the world’s first mass-produced EV shooting brake. With three models available in the lineup, namely Long Range RWD, Performance AWD and Privilege AWD – the highest trim level of the 001 features electric motors on both the front and rear axles, delivering a combined output of 400 kW and 700 N.m.
The 001 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3,8 seconds, achieves a top speed exceeding 200 km/h, and maintains a maximum power output of 132 kW for 30 minutes. Impressively, Zeekr asserts that the 001 can cover a distance of up to 620 km on a full charge with the Long Range RWD model, with its charging system providing 120 km of power in just five minutes of charging time.
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The model has been out for several years but in September of 2023, Zeekr announced a limited edition model dubbed the 001 FR (or Future Road). This performance-crazed motor features quad electric motors that can deliver 931 kW while the rest of the car has been upgraded with performance brakes and suspension and carbon fibre bits all over its exterior.
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The models spotted in Cape Town over the weekend may not be the performance versions but our sources claim that the Chinese company is shooting the stills and TV commercial for the EV in the picturesque city. Considering it has been available since 2021, it is unlikely that South Africa will ever see the Zeekr brand permanently on local roads. Do you think the Geely-backed brand would be able to succeed if it did?
