Zeekr 001 FR: The Unfamiliar 1,265bhp Electric Station Wagon

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【Summary】The Zeekr 001 FR is an electric estate car with 1,265bhp and insane performance. It has four electric motors, a 100kWh battery, and 800V architecture for fast charging. It can go from 0 to 80% charge in 15 minutes and has a 0-62mph time of 2.07 seconds. The car features Brembo brakes, carbon fiber bodywork, and a distributed quad e-drive design for maximum performance and traction. However, it is only available in China.

FutureCar Staff Oct 06, 2023 2:46 AM PT

Zeekr 001 FR: The Unfamiliar 1,265bhp Electric Station Wagon

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The first reviews of Zeekr's electric vehicles in Europe have started to emerge. Journalists have had the opportunity to test the X model (not related to Tesla) and the more appealing 001 model. Today, we'll focus on the 001 FR version, which is expected to be one of the most remarkable EVs launched in recent years.

Zeekr, a sub-brand of the Chinese company Geely, aims to establish itself as the flagship badge, despite Geely also owning Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus, all of which are actively producing attractive electric SUVs. Despite being in existence for only two years, Zeekr is making a significant impact in the automotive industry. The 001 FR model stands out due to its incorporation of four electric motors and a massive 100kWh battery pack. Additionally, the entire system operates on an 800V architecture, similar to the Porsche Taycan's advanced thermal management technology.

Thanks to this innovation, the 001 FR can achieve an 80% charge in just 15 minutes (when using compatible outlets) and deliver mind-blowing performance with its four electric motors. According to official information, it boasts a total output of 1,265bhp and can reach 0-62mph in 2.07 seconds in a rolling start scenario.

For comparison, the twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine in a modern Audi RS6 Avant generates 621bhp, while the upcoming 2024 BMW M5 touring, equipped with hybrid technology, is expected to exceed 700bhp. The Zeekr 001 FR takes performance to an entirely different level, comparable to an Aston Martin Valkyrie in terms of total output. However, its handling characteristics remain to be seen.

Fortunately, Zeekr has equipped the 001 FR with Brembo brakes for reliable stopping power, and the carbon fiber bodywork helps to reduce overall weight. The "distributed quad e-drive design" enables individual control of torque from each motor and wheel, ensuring optimal performance and traction. It can even perform tank turns.

Therefore, if you're in the market for an outrageously powerful shooting brake (essentially an estate car) with performance figures that push legal limits and the maneuverability of a tank, you're in luck. However, this model is currently only available in China. Apologies to those elsewhere.