The 2026 model year Zeekr 001 electric liftback from Geely is hitting the Chinese market with some serious upgrades. This isn’t just a refresh, it’s a full-throttle evolution, boasting a peak power output of 680 kW, or a staggering 912 horsepower. This translates to a blistering 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 2.83 seconds, putting it firmly in supercar territory.
But it’s not all about raw power. The updated Zeekr 001 also pushes boundaries with 12C DC charging capabilities and an impressive CLTC range of up to 810 km. If you’re keeping tabs on electric vehicles, these numbers speak volumes about Geely’s commitment to cutting-edge performance and efficiency.
From Concept to Production Powerhouse
The Zeekr 001 initially started life as an ambitious concept under the Lynk & Co brand, but it proudly launched under the dedicated Zeekr marque in 2021. Built on the flexible SEA modular architecture, this liftback got its first facelift in February 2024, receiving a notable power boost and enhanced features. Now, on September 23, 2025, the 2026 model year Zeekr 001 officially opened for presales in China, building on that legacy of performance.
Design That Still Turns Heads
The updated Zeekr 001, which secured its sales license in China in August 2025, wisely keeps the design language that made it a standout. You’ll still find those distinctive running lights, neatly integrated headlights in the front bumper, and a roofline that flows with sleek intent. Dimensionally, it measures 4977mm long, 1999mm wide, and 1533mm high, with a substantial 3,005mm wheelbase, giving it a commanding presence on the road.
Comfort and Control Underneath
Underneath its striking exterior, the Zeekr 001 introduces a dual-chamber air suspension system. This clever setup allows for an 85mm adjustment range, giving you the flexibility to adapt to different driving conditions. In its highest setting, the car boasts a grand 206mm of ground clearance. Zeekr even hinted that this liftback is now more capable of light off-roading, a surprising but welcome capability for a car that looks this sporty. Coupled with a CDC continuous damping control system, you can expect a ride that’s both comfortable and dynamically responsive.
Smarter Driving with Advanced Tech
The 2026 Zeekr 001 also levels up its tech game with the G-Pilot H7 driver assistance system. This sophisticated suite includes 31 sensors, notably a LiDAR unit, all feeding data to an Nvidia Thor-U chip. This powerhouse chip offers a staggering peak computing power of 700 TOPS (Trillion Operations Per Second). To put that in perspective, the previous Zeekr 001 featured the G-Pilot H5 system with two Nvidia Orin-X chips, delivering 508 TOPS. This upgrade means more advanced and reliable assistance for everyday driving, pushing closer to autonomous capabilities.
The Heart of the Beast: Powertrain Unleashed
While the looks and tech are impressive, the revised powertrain truly defines the updated Zeekr 001. The entry-level rear-wheel-drive variant gets a robust single electric motor pumping out 370 kW (489 hp) to the rear axle. Buyers can choose between two battery options: a 95 kWh LFP unit or a 103 kWh ternary NMC. This results in a CLTC range between 710 and 810 km. According to the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, this model hits a top speed of 280 km/h.
For those who crave ultimate performance, the all-wheel-drive variant features two electric motors (310 kW + 370 kW) combining for that exhilarating 680 kW (912 hp) peak output. Its 0-100 km/h sprint of 2.83 seconds is breathtaking. It’s a significant leap from the outgoing model’s 580 kW (777 hp). Even the European market model, while powerful at 400 kW (536 hp), doesn’t quite match its Chinese counterpart’s sheer grunt. Both battery options are available for the AWD, offering a CLTC range of 640-762 km, with the same 280 km/h top speed.
Presales and Market Anticipation
The upgraded Zeekr 001 is now available for order in China with a 2,000 yuan (about $280 USD) deposit. While the final pricing remains under wraps, the car is set to arrive at dealerships on October 4, with official launch and deliveries slated for October 11. For context, the previous Zeekr 001 model ranged from 259,000 to 329,000 yuan (approximately $36,400 to $46,240 USD). Zeekr has a strong track record, having sold 24,126 units of the outgoing sporty liftback. Its rival, the Denza Z9 GT, sold 6,328 units in the same period, showing the Zeekr 001 definitely resonates with buyers in China’s dynamic EV market. “Chinese EV makers are always pushing the boundaries, and Zeekr is no exception.”, one analyst noted. This updated 001 looks set to continue that trend.
