Zeekr 001: The Starry Sky Concert Hall Edition Elevates the EV Game

Get ready, EV fanatics, because Zeekr just pulled back the curtain on the revamped Zeekr 001, and it is a stunner. This isn’t just a refresh, it feels like a whole new experience, particularly inside. Zeekr is calling the interior concept a “Starry Sky Concert Hall,” and after hearing the details, you’ll understand why.

Stepping Inside the Starry Sky Concert Hall

The moment you settle into the updated Zeekr 001, you know you’re in for something special. The centerpiece has to be the gorgeous 16-inch 3.5K central control screen. Not only is it larger and sharper than before, but it also rotates 30 degrees, letting you customize your control interface on the fly. Complementing this is a crisp 13.02-inch high-definition instrument panel and a handy 8-inch screen for rear passengers. For those who love cutting-edge tech, a 39.3-inch AR-HUD projects vital information right onto your windshield, keeping your eyes on the road and your focus where it needs to be.

But it is not just about screens, it is about the entire ambiance. The cabin is draped in sumptuous Nappa leather, and the center console gets a refined touch with suede. Speaking of comfort, the rear seats are seriously impressive. They recline up to 125 degrees and feature extendable leg rests that stretch a full 350 mm, adjusting over an 87-degree range. Both front and rear passengers can indulge in a massage, with 20 points in the front and 12 in the back. This level of luxury truly sets the tone for long journeys or just unwinding after a long day.

Then there is the “Starry Sky” sunroof, which is a game-changer. This isn’t just glass, it is an integrated light show. Digitally controlled, it can display various constellation patterns thanks to 500 embedded light units. Imagine cruising at night with a galaxy unfolding above you it adds a touch of magic that few cars can offer. This kind of attention to detail creates an immersive environment that truly lives up to the “Concert Hall” moniker.

Performance that Electrifies: The 900V Leap

While the exterior of the updated Zeekr 001 maintains its familiar, sleek liftback silhouette, the real revolution lies beneath. Zeekr has upgraded the entire series to a blazing 900V platform, leaving the previous 800V in its dust. This isn’t just a number; it means faster charging, more efficient power delivery, and an overall more dynamic driving experience. With this kind of architecture, particularly the 95 kWh variant, you’re looking at a mind-blowing 12C fast charging rate that can top up your battery from 10% to 80% in a mere 7 minutes. That is less time than it takes to grab a coffee, making range anxiety a thing of the past.

For the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) enthusiast, the Zeekr 001 packs a punch with a 370 kW (489 hp) electric motor. Coupled with a 103 kWh CATL Qilin Battery, you can expect an impressive 810 km CLTC range. And that sprint from 0 to 100 km/h? A mere 4.98 seconds. For those who crave even more exhilaration, the all-wheel-drive (AWD) version adds a 310 kW (416 hp) front electric motor, pushing the total system power to a staggering 680 kW (912 hp). This powerhouse can be paired with either a 95 kWh Golden Brick Battery or the 103 kWh CATL Qilin Battery, offering 710 km or 762 km CLTC range respectively. The quickest AWD models will rocket from 0 to 100 km/h in a blistering 2.83 seconds, with a top speed of 280 km/h. This car doesn’t just move, it flies.

Seamless Ownership and Market Context

Pre-sales for this electrifying machine kicked off on September 23rd, giving eager buyers a chance to jump in early. If you got your 2,000 yuan (approximately 279 USD) deposit down before the official launch, you were rewarded with a 7,000 yuan (around 983 USD) discount, a nice perk to kick off ownership. The official launch, and deliveries, are slated for October 11th, so customers won’t have to wait long to get behind the wheel.

The Zeekr 001 continues to impress with its thoughtful design and robust capabilities. Its dimensions, 4977mm long, 1999mm wide, and 1545mm high, with a 3005mm wheelbase, strike a perfect balance between a commanding presence and agile handling. The commitment to a superior platform and advanced battery technology, such as the CATL Qilin Battery, highlights China’s rapid advancements in EV manufacturing and its dedication to pushing boundaries. Vehicles like the Zeekr 001 are a prime example of why Chinese EVs are blasting to the top, setting new benchmarks not just in performance but also in interior luxury and innovative features. It’s an exciting time to be an automotive enthusiast, especially with cars like this hitting the market.