Chinese language EV startup Zeekr has lately begun its enlargement in Europe with two fashions, the 001 mid-size liftback and the X compact crossover.

The premium EV model owned by Geely Auto is presently providing each fashions for pre-order in Sweden and the Netherlands, and it plans to broaden availability additional.

Moreover these two EVs, Zeekr sells a 3rd mannequin in China, the 009 minivan, which is kind of exceptional for a model that was solely based in 2021.

As you may think about, Zeekr would not plan to cease right here. The model has simply teased a high-performance variant of the Zeekr 001, which known as the 001 FR. The automaker has shared two images of the automotive on the social media app X (previously Twitter), accompanied by some actually daring claims. 

“Plaid is uninteresting. The #ZEEKR001FR is a brand new kind of beast. Standby for extra data.”

The reference to the Tesla Mannequin S Plaid may be very clear and can clearly get a whole lot of consideration. The actual fact the Zeekr 001 FR is pictured on a racetrack additionally speaks volumes in regards to the firm’s intentions with the brand new mannequin.

In comparison with the common 001, the FR variant encompasses a motor sports-inspired physique equipment with a extra aggressive entrance bumper, a pointy entrance splitter, bigger air intakes, facet skirts, greater wheels shod with efficiency tires, in addition to a roof spoiler on the again doubled by a set rear wing, and a sporty bumper that integrates an enormous diffuser.

In accordance with Reuters, Zeekr mentioned on August 10 that its first luxurious sports activities automotive will probably be priced above 1 million yuan ($140,000) in China, barely undercutting the Tesla Mannequin S Plaid which begins round $147,000.

The Zeekr 001 FR will launch inside weeks, with the primary batch of vehicles to be delivered this yr, an individual with direct data of the matter advised the information company.

Nothing is understood in regards to the Zeekr 001 FR’s powertrain, however it should have to be stellar to make Tesla’s Plaid look uninteresting. At present, probably the most highly effective variant of the common 001 encompasses a dual-motor powertrain that makes 536 horsepower (400 kilowatts) and 516 pound-feet of torque. This allows it to speed up from zero to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds and hit a prime velocity of 124 mph.