Zeekr, the premium electric mobility brand from Chinese automotive giant Geely Holding Group, has started deliveries in China of the Zeekr 001, equipped with cutting-edge Qilin batteries developed by CATL.
The Zeekr 001, in its WE variant, offers an optional 140 kWh battery, enabling an astounding range of up to 1,032 kilometers according to Chinese standards. This achievement is made possible by the groundbreaking Qilin battery technology from CATL, which boasts an outstanding volume-based usage efficiency of over 72 percent, setting a new industry record.
Compared to the standard 100 kWh battery, the upgraded Qilin battery comes at an additional cost of 103,000 yuan (approximately 13,500 euros), making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking extended driving ranges.
To celebrate the release of the top-of-the-line Zeekr 001 variant, Zeekr has initially limited the production to just 1,000 units. This exclusive offering aims to cater to EV enthusiasts who desire the latest advancements in technology and performance. With a starting price of 403,000 yuan (equivalent to approximately 53,000 euros), the Zeekr 001 WE with the 140 kWh battery positions itself as an attractive option for those seeking unparalleled driving experiences.
Zeekr’s ambitions extend beyond China, as the brand plans to expand into the European market this year. Initially, the Zeekr 001 and the new Zeekr X model will be introduced in Sweden and the Netherlands. This move showcases Zeekr’s commitment to providing cutting-edge EVs to international consumers, aiming to revolutionize the European automotive landscape.
Zeekr’s collaboration with CATL grants them the distinction of being the first automaker to adopt CATL’s Qilin batteries. These batteries incorporate CATL’s third-generation cell-to-pack (CTP) battery technology, setting new benchmarks for efficiency and performance. With a usage efficiency exceeding 72 percent, the Qilin batteries outperform their predecessors significantly, as the initial generation achieved only 50 percent efficiency. Introduced in June last year, CATL’s Qilin batteries are set to enter mass production in the near future, marking a breakthrough in EV battery technology.
[source: Gasgoo]
