The Zeekr 001 is back in the spotlight after a bold upgrade, delivering a staggering 912 horsepower output and the ability to charge from 10 % to 80 % in just 7 minutes — a combination few electric vehicles attempt. This refreshed version aims to reassert Zeekr’s standing in the high‑performance EV segment.
Powertrain and Performance
At the heart of the update is a revised powertrain built around a 900‑volt architecture. The highest spec, all‑wheel drive (AWD) version now produces 680 kW, equivalent to 912 hp. That propels 0–100 km/h acceleration to 2.83 seconds. (CnEVPost) For those preferring milder performance, the rear‑wheel drive (RWD) variant remains, with lower output but still spirited acceleration of 4.98 seconds from standstill to 100 km/h. (ArenaEV)
The move to a 900 V system is a step up from the previous 800 V architecture and is central to achieving such high performance while keeping charging times extremely low. (EVMagz) Zeekr claims this architecture also enhances driving dynamics, thermal management, and efficiency overall. (CnEVPost)
Battery and Ultra‑Fast Charging
Zeekr offers two battery options for this upgraded 001. The first is a 95 kWh “Golden Battery” (sometimes called “Golden Brick”), rated for a CLTC range of 710 km, and the second is a 103 kWh CATL Qilin battery, pushing range to 810 km under ideal conditions. (EVMagz)
The charging claim is perhaps the most headline grabbing: Zeekr states the AWD version with the 95 kWh cell can go from 10 % to 80 % in just 7 minutes. (EVMagz) The Qilin battery variant is said to charge the same proportion in 10 minutes, adding more range in the process. (EVMagz) In equivalent terms, Zeekr suggests the 7‑minute charge could add 500 km of range, while the 10‑minute version adds 570 km. (EVMagz)
These numbers are ambitious, and real‑world charging speeds may vary depending on temperature, charger availability, and battery condition. Still, earlier record tests of Zeekr 001 show that it has already pushed DC fast‑charging peaks above 546 kW, charging from 10 % to 80 % in roughly 11.5 minutes under ideal conditions with its prior configuration. (Paul Tan’s Automotive News)
Beyond Power and Charging
Zeekr didn’t just stop at battery and motor upgrades. The vehicle now includes the G‑Pilot H7 driver assistance system, which integrates 31 sensing units, including LiDAR, aided by an NVIDIA Drive Thor‑U chip delivering 700 TOPS computing performance. (EVMagz) This is an advancement over previous driver assistance hardware. (CarNewsChina.com) Also, the dual‑chamber adjustable air suspension (CDC) and a more aggressive stance enhance both ride comfort and dynamic control. (CarNewsChina.com)
Visually, the exterior retains much of its previous shape and liftback aesthetics, though Zeekr hints at minor tweaks to lighting and trim details to reflect its upgraded status. (CarNewsChina.com) The interior receives a fresh look too — with premium materials, ambient “star ceiling” lighting, reclining rear seats, and tech features such as swivel touch displays and augmented reality HUDs. (ArenaEV)
Timing and Market Outlook
Pre‑sales began in China in September 2025, with showroom units available from October 4 and the official launch slated for October 11, 2025. (CnEVPost) Zeekr is offering early return incentives — a 2,000 yuan deposit and a subsequent 7,000 yuan discount. (CnEVPost) Pricing hasn’t been widely disclosed for export markets yet, but the enhancements target performance EV buyers who demand both speed and convenience.
With this refresh, Zeekr repositions the 001 not just as a luxury or sporty EV, but as a technology flagship — one that bets heavily on ultra‑fast charging and record power figures to make a statement.
FAQs
1. Is the 7‑minute charging claim realistic?
Zeekr initially claims that in optimal conditions, the AWD variant with the 95 kWh battery can charge from 10 % to 80 % in 7 minutes. (EVMagz) However, as with all ultra‑fast charging figures, real‑world performance will depend on ambient temperature, charger infrastructure, battery state, and thermal management systems.
2. What is the difference between the “Golden Battery” and the Qilin battery?
The 95 kWh “Golden Battery” is optimized for ultra‑fast charging and claims a CLTC range of 710 km. The 103 kWh Qilin battery supports a longer range of up to 810 km and charges a bit slower (10 minutes for 10 % to 80 %). (EVMagz)
3. How does the power output compare to the previous Zeekr 001?
The earlier top model produced around 580 kW. With the update, the AWD version now pushes 680 kW (912 hp), significantly boosting acceleration (2.83 seconds to 100 km/h). (CnEVPost)
4. What upgrades does the driver assistance system receive?
The new model uses G‑Pilot H7, with 31 sensors, LiDAR, and a more powerful compute unit (NVIDIA Thor‑U at 700 TOPS). This is an upgrade compared to earlier systems, aimed at improving autonomous support and safety. (EVMagz)
5. When will this updated Zeekr 001 be available outside China?
Zeekr has started pre‑sales in China and will officially launch on October 11, 2025. (CnEVPost) As of now, no firm global release dates or export pricing have been confirmed.
