Zeekr 9X Launches in China With 1,000kW Hybrid System - Australia Under Review

Zeekr, a premium new energy brand under Geely Holding Group, has officially launched its flagship SUV, the Zeekr 9X, in Shanghai yesterday. The model will be the company’s first hybrid vehicle, positioned as its new luxury flagship.

A Zeekr representative told CarSauce the company is evaluating several models for Australia and other right-hand drive markets, including the 007 GT, 8X, and 9X, with more information expected in the coming months.

The Zeekr 9X is built on the SEA-S platform, a 900-volt high-performance variant of Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture.

The hybrid system combines a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 145kW with three electric motors for total output of up to 1,000kW, enabling 0–100km/h acceleration in 3.1 seconds.

The SUV carries a 70kWh battery capable of charging at up to 6C rates, meaning it can charge at a rate around six times its capacity — approximately 420kW.

Zeekr says this allows the battery to recharge from 20–80 percent in 8.5 minutes, with up to 380km of pure electric range under CLTC testing.

Ride and handling technology includes the Haohan AI Digital Chassis with closed dual-chamber air suspension, electromagnetic dampers, and a 48V active stabiliser bar.

The suspension can adjust by 110mm, with maximum ground clearance reaching 288mm, and incorporates side-impact lift technology to raise one side of the vehicle by 80mm within 200 milliseconds during a collision.

Safety systems marketed as Haohan Safety Armor include a four-way crash test at 105km/h, crosswind control, side-impact lift, and automatic obstacle avoidance.

The structure integrates ultra-high strength steel, die-cast pillar sections, and a roof capable of supporting over 11 tonnes.

The Zeekr 9X introduces the H9 ADAS platform, powered by dual NVIDIA Thor-U chips. It uses five lidar units, including one long-range sensor with 300m range, giving the vehicle Level-3 autonomous driving functions, pending regulatory approval.

Inside, the SUV offers a three-row, six-seat configuration with 'Cloud Lounge' seating, a 17-inch OLED display, and a 3,800W Naim audio system. Other features include an electric split tailgate and multiple all-terrain drive modes.

At launch, prices in China range from RMB 465,900 ($99,321 AUD) to RMB 599,900 ($127,887 AUD), with deliveries beginning immediately.