Zeekr updates the 001 with new batteries and new powertrains

The Chinese automakers have absolutely no chance of keeping their upcoming vehicles secret. Every new vehicle has to be approved for sale by the MIIT, and part of the process requires the details to be published for the public to voice any concerns. Courtesy of the MIIT’s monthly publication we have a sneak peek at the updated Zeekr 001, and there are some big changes.

Kicking off with the new battery option - Zeekr 001 now comes with a 95 kWh LFP battery pack in addition to the existing 100 kWh NMC pack. Interestingly enough, the 140 kWh Qilin battery is missing from the MIIT file - that either means the large battery won’t be available in the updated 001 or there may be another version coming later.

Zeekr is not stopping on batteries though, the 001 gets a comprehensive powertrain upgrade. Gone is the 272 hp (200 kW) RWD version, replaced with a new, more powerful 415 hp (310 kW) model. It’s no surprise Zeekr decided to upgrade the motors since the new LFP battery pack weighs a whopping 1,587 lb. LFP batteries are cheaper to manufacture but have lower energy density and in order to deliver capacity, they have to be large.

The AWD model gets a serious power upgrade as well, the 400 kW dual-motor setup is replaced with two electric motors churning out 580 kW - that’s 778 hp in the old speak and 234 hp more than the previous model had. The MIIT filing does not reveal performance figures but the old model dealt with the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 3.8 seconds - we should see this result coming down closer to 3.3 seconds with the new powertrain.

Both models are available with the new LFP battery, promising a range of 449 miles for the RWD model, and up to 419 miles for the AWD version. The 100 kWh NMC pack improves on those slightly with 466 miles and 438 miles respectively. The AWD version comes with optional larger wheels which cut the range by about 31 miles. Those obviously are CLTC numbers and WLTP results will be slightly lower.

When it comes to visual changes, the refreshed 001 comes with new bumpers - front and rear - and there are new color options to choose from. Another addition worth mentioning is the LiDAR sensor proudly sitting above the windshield - that’s the first time Zeekr 001 has included it as an option, suggesting improved autonomous driving.

While visually the Zeekr 001 hasn’t changed much, the powertrain upgrades are substantial. The power gap between the top-of-the-range 1,265 hp FR model and the now 778 hp AWD version no longer resembles Grand Canyon. The entry model with 415 hp will be sufficient for the majority of drivers and will be capable of competing better in the world’s busiest EV market. There is no word yet when the new Zeekr 001 will make it to Europe, but once it goes on sale in China it won’t be too long before we see it on the Old Continent.

Via