Zeekr: China’s Luxury EV Brand Sets Sights on Australian Market in 2025

Zeekr, China’s latest electric vehicle (EV) brand, is set to make its debut in Australia in 2025 with two models leading the charge: the Zeekr 009, a spacious family-oriented vehicle boasting over 800km of range, and the Zeekr X, a compact SUV aimed at competing with established models like the BMW iX1 and Volvo XC40 Recharge.

As a subsidiary of the renowned Chinese conglomerate Geely, Zeekr has rapidly emerged as a key player in the EV market. The brand’s affiliation with Volvo and Polestar underscores its commitment to luxury and innovation. With a focus on quality and performance, Zeekr aims to redefine the electric vehicle landscape in Australia.

The Zeekr 009, available in both six- and seven-seater configurations, promises exhilarating acceleration akin to a sports car, thanks to its dual electric motors generating a combined output of 405kW and 686Nm of torque. Equipped with a cutting-edge battery system, this model offers an impressive range of up to 800km, setting a new standard for long-distance travel in the EV segment.

Complementing the Zeekr 009 is the Zeekr X, a compact SUV designed for urban mobility and versatility. Offering a range of 500-560km on the Chinese testing cycle, this model combines efficiency with agility, making it ideal for navigating city streets and suburban landscapes. With its sleek design and advanced technology features, the Zeekr X is poised to attract discerning drivers seeking an eco-friendly yet stylish driving experience.

Zeekr’s expansion strategy includes the establishment of a new manufacturing facility in Thailand, signaling its commitment to global growth and accessibility. With plans to introduce the Zeekr 009 and Zeekr X to the Thai market in Q3 of this year, the brand is on track to launch in Australia shortly, thereafter, providing consumers with a compelling alternative in the EV market.

While pricing and specifications for the Zeekr 009 and Zeekr X in Australia are yet to be finalized, both models are expected to offer premium features and performance. With its competitive pricing and innovative offerings, Zeekr aims to carve out a significant presence in Australia’s rapidly evolving automotive landscape.

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Geely’s Revolutionary Riddara RD6 Electric Ute to Hit Australian Roads

Geely, renowned for its innovation in the automotive industry, is poised to make waves in Australia with the impending arrival of its groundbreaking electric utility vehicle, the Riddara RD6.

As anticipation builds among automotive enthusiasts and eco-conscious drivers alike, Geely’s decision to bring the Riddara RD6 to Australian shores marks a significant milestone in the country’s transition towards sustainable transportation.

With its sleek design, cutting-edge technology, and eco-friendly credentials, the Riddara RD6 represents a new era of electric vehicles tailored to meet the diverse needs of Australian consumers.

The story of Geely’s Riddara RD6 begins with a vision to revolutionise the utility vehicle segment, blending practicality with sustainability. From bustling city streets to rugged outback terrain, the RD6 promises to deliver unmatched performance and versatility, powered solely by electricity.

Equipped with advanced battery technology and state-of-the-art electric drivetrain systems, the RD6 boasts impressive range and charging capabilities, ensuring drivers can embark on their journeys with confidence, all while minimising their environmental footprint.

Geely Riddara RD6 Electric Ute Interior

But the Riddara RD6 isn’t just about sustainability—it’s also about innovation. Geely has integrated a host of smart features and connectivity options into the vehicle, providing drivers with a seamless and intuitive driving experience.

From interactive touchscreen displays to advanced driver-assistance systems, the RD6 is designed to keep drivers informed, entertained, and safe on the road.

Whether navigating city streets or exploring remote landscapes, drivers can rely on the RD6 to deliver performance, comfort, and peace of mind.

As Geely prepares to launch the Riddara RD6 in Australia, excitement is building among consumers eager to embrace the future of transportation. With its blend of cutting-edge technology, sustainable design, and practical utility, the RD6 is poised to make a lasting impression on the Australian automotive market.

With Geely’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, the arrival of the Riddara RD6 signals a bold new chapter in Australia’s automotive landscape—one driven by progress, innovation, and a commitment to a cleaner, greener future.

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Kia Unveils Australian Details for 2024 Kia EV5: Midsize Electric SUV

Kia is set to launch its highly anticipated Kia EV5 medium-sized electric SUV in Australia this June, offering striking design and surprising affordability. The introduction of the EV5 may pose a significant sales challenge to Tesla’s popular Model Y, given its competitive pricing and impressive features.

According to Damien Meredith, Kia Australia boss, the EV5 will be the brand’s most affordable EV yet, with prices expected to start “in the 50s.” This price positioning places the base EV5 model in a favourable position compared to its entry-level rivals, including the Tesla Model Y, Toyota bZ4X, Subaru Solterra AWD, and Ford Mustang Mach-E.

The EV5 will be available in three variants – Air, Earth, and GT-Line – offered in both standard and long-range forms. The entry-level EV5 Air will feature a single electric motor, front-wheel drive, and a 64.2kWh lithium-ion phosphate (LFP) battery, sourced from China’s BYD for enhanced fast-charge capability and long-term battery durability.

Equipped with a 160kW/310Nm electric motor, the EV5 Air is expected to deliver a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 8.5 seconds and a claimed NEDC range of 490km. The long-range variant will feature the same electric motor but with a larger 88.1kWh LFP battery, offering 36% more range and a slightly slower acceleration time of 8.9 seconds.

For those seeking additional power and performance, the dual-motor EV5 AWD variant, available in GT-Line form, will feature combined outputs of 230kW and 480Nm. With a brisk 0-100km/h time of 6.1 seconds and a range of 620km, the AWD variant offers a compelling blend of performance and efficiency.

With its comfortable and pragmatic design, the EV5 aims to provide a more comfort-oriented alternative to Kia’s sportier EV6 lift back. Positioned as a true SUV, the EV5 offers spacious interiors and a versatile driving experience, appealing to a wide range of consumers.

Designed to set its own identity within Kia’s electric vehicle line-up, the EV5 showcases a distinctive SUV-first look, setting the stage for future electric models from the brand. With its competitive pricing, impressive features, and striking design, the Kia EV5 is poised to make a significant impact in the Australian electric vehicle market.

The 2024 Kia EV5 electric SUV is estimated to be priced from less than $70,000 drive-away – cheaper than a Tesla Model Y, Australia’s top-selling electric car – when showroom arrivals begin in June.

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