Zeekr announces arrival of 009 MPV

ZEEKR has arrived Down Under with all guns blazing announcing its second vehicle within weeks of the first – and more in the pipeline.

Mind you, the new Zeekr 009 people mover is still an “available to pre-order” proposition which seems to be the way some Chinese brands play the new model launch game here.

Two versions of the large fully electric people mover (MPV) are available in the AWD seven-seater (2+2+3) from $135,900 and the AWD six-seater (2+2+2) from $139,900 both excluding on-road costs.

At the money, the 009 has BEV competition in the form of the Mercedes-Benz EQV 300 from $161,723, the LDV Mifa 9 E from $104,000 and the VW ID Buzz from $87,990 for the five-seater with the AWD seven pew GTX version listed from $109,990 all excluding on-road costs.

Then of course, there’s always the Kia Carnival hybrid from $76,210 and the fully electric Kia EV9 Earth AWD wagon from $106,900 also excluding on-road costs.

Other fully electric competitors from China will be here soon and Zeekr’s pricing begs the question as to whether or not the Aussie market is ready for a $135K electric bus especially with much cheaper alternatives available.

But Zeekr is bullish about the 009 pitching it as a “luxury all electric MPV designed for ultimate luxury with inclusions such as Nappa leather seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, plus a lounge chair mode inspired by luxury furniture for maximum relaxation,” the manufacturer saying it wants to redefine the MPV segment with its 009.

The Geely-owned luxury carmaker appears to have thrown everything in the parts and accessories bin at the 009 with goodies like dual high-definition OLED screens, a 30-speaker Yamaha surround sound system, a seven-airbag system, and sophisticated driver assistance features.

Zeekr’s aim was to create an “immersive, tech-enhanced driving experience” that was demonstrated on the 009 display car at the recent Sydney EV Show.

Silicon-carbide-driven dual e-motors produce 450kW/693Nm for a 0-100km/h sprint in 4.5 seconds, the 400V powertrain supported by a 116kWh lithium-ion battery pack that provides a claimed range of up to 686km.

Claimed power usage is 19.5kWh/100km with a 10-80 per cent DC charge in 30min (205kW) and a 0-100 per cent AC charge in 13.5hours (11kW).

The large and customisable vehicle is fitted with a dual-chamber air suspension system and electromagnetic continuously controlled damping shock absorbers for responsive handling and maximum ride comfort.

The model measures up at 5209mm in length, 2024mm in width, 1812mm in height, and with a wheelbase of 3205mm.

V2L functionality is standard (at 3.3kW), as is double wishbone front suspension / multi-link all-aluminium rear suspension, and 20-inch  alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres.

A high level of safety is reflected in the 009’s “720-degree protection system” the model engineered with a single die-cast aluminium rear-end and a 10-grid side sill structure.

This robust build is designed to safeguard the battery while offering comprehensive protection through a seven-airbag system including front-centre and curtain airbags to ensure safety across all seating rows.

The 009’s suite of ADAS features utilises HD cameras and radar to deliver over 20 driver aids, maximising safety for occupants and surrounding road users alike.

The “lounge chair” mode mentioned earlier is inspired by the iconic Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman, allows passengers to fully extend their legs, combating travel fatigue and elevating in-cabin comfort.

The tech-luxury experience includes a so called “Intelligent Cockpit” powered by dual Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 chips, that integrates a 10.25-inch full HD instrument cluster, a 35.95-inch AR head-up display and seamless over-the-air (OTA) software updates to keep technology current and evolving.

And through the Zeekr app, owners can access real-time vehicle status and intelligent remote-control features, providing constant connectivity to their vehicle from anywhere.

“The Zeekr 009 combines cutting-edge technology and luxurious detailing, setting a new standard for electric mobility,” said Zeekr Australia and New Zealand managing director Connal Yan.

“This vehicle I crafted for discerning individual who prioritise driving comfort and advanced features without compromising on performance while travelling.”

2025 Zeekr 009 pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.