A Glimpse of Production Power
The Zeekr 9X, a full-size plug-in hybrid SUV from Geely’s luxury arm, is already making waves before its official launch. Recent photos from the factory show rows of these impressive vehicles ready to go, hinting that Zeekr is serious about meeting its ambitious delivery schedule. The official sales launch is set for September 29, but the hype is already palpable. Pre-sales, which kicked off on August 29, saw an incredible 43,000 reservations flood in within just one hour, a clear sign that this SUV has struck a chord with buyers.
For a brand founded in 2021, Zeekr has moved fast. Initially focused on pure electric cars, it is now pivoting to embrace the booming market for plug-in hybrids in China. The 9X is its first foray into the PHEV space, and it’s a confident first step. The images reveal the SUV in classic black and white, with options for a blacked-out grille and rear pillars that give it a more aggressive look. The design features a high bonnet line, a two-part panoramic roof, and a rooftop LiDAR sensor, all rolling on massive 22-inch wheels.
Quick Specs & Metrics Table
| Metric | Value | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) | 3.1 | s | Hyper trim with three electric motors |
| Peak power | 660 / 1,030 | kW | 885 hp (Max/Ultra) / 1,381 hp (Hyper) |
| Battery capacity | 55 / 70 | kWh | Two battery options available |
| Dimensions (L/W/H) | 5239 / 2029 / 1819 | mm | Full-size SUV footprint |
| Wheelbase | 3,169 | mm | Promises generous interior space |
| Starting price (local market) | 479,900 | CNY | Equivalent to approximately 67,080 USD |
Seriously Surprising Power
The Zeekr 9X isn’t just about looks. It’s packing some serious heat under the hood. The “entry-level” model is anything but, combining a 2.0-liter internal combustion engine with two electric motors to produce a combined 660 kW (885 hp). But if that’s not enough, the top-tier Hyper trim adds a third electric motor, pushing the total output to a staggering 1,030 kW (1,381 hp). This allows the full-size SUV to rocket from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.1 seconds, putting it squarely in supercar territory.
A Tech-Forward Interior
Inside, the Zeekr 9X is just as impressive. It offers a spacious 2+2+2 six-seat layout, making it a comfortable family hauler. The cabin is available in three color schemes: deep blue, beige, or brown. The dashboard is dominated by a pair of 16-inch screens, complemented by a massive 47-inch augmented reality head-up display that projects key information directly into the driver’s line of sight. For passengers, there’s a ceiling-mounted 17-inch 3K display, ensuring entertainment is always on hand. To top it all off, buyers can opt for a 32-speaker Naim acoustic system, turning the cabin into a concert hall on wheels. It’s a compelling package that challenges what you expect from a luxury SUV.
Pricing and Market Impact
Zeekr has priced the 9X competitively, targeting the premium end of the market without overreaching. The lineup is as follows:
- Zeekr 9X Max: 479,900 yuan (67,080 USD)
- Zeekr 9X Ultra: 499,900 yuan (69,880 USD)
- Zeekr 9X Hyper: 569,900 yuan (79,660 USD)
Given the immense power and technology on offer, this pricing is aggressive, especially considering Zeekr’s plans to launch the 9X in global markets. The incredible pre-order numbers have already sparked a scalper market, where opportunistic resellers are asking for significant markups. While frustrating for buyers, it’s a clear indicator of the immense demand for this new electric vehicle. As part of the wider Geely automotive empire, Zeekr has the manufacturing muscle to scale up, but the initial frenzy shows just how hotly anticipated this hybrid beast is.
