Is the ZEEKR X top closely related to the smart #3 and Volvo EX30
If you are an avid car enthusiast, you will know by now that this ZEEKR X is a very close relative to the smart #3 and Volvo EX30 electric crossovers. If not …. Then you know now.
The parent for ZEEKR and Volvo and smart vehicles is Geely and by the way they are also the step-parent for Proton (eMAS 7).
So, with that short history lesson done, lets get to the review of this RM155k electric crossover.
Measuring 4,432mm long, 1,566mm high and with a 2,750mm wheelbase, the ZEEKR X is has head-turning looks and it attracts attention on the road and in any car park.
It has a sophisticated look and together with the deployable door handles (the handles retract inwards for you to slip your hand in to open the door) which helps to reduce wind resistance, the ZEEKR X has a low drag coefficient of just 0.28 Cd, which also enhances cabin acoustics.
The tail lights, which extend across the full width of the tailgate has 229 LEDs, with a glowing white ‘ZEEKR’ logo in the center.
Powertrain is interesting as the ZEEKR X uses state-of-the-art electric motor and battery technology to deliver range, efficiency and performance.
The 69kWh Lithium-ion battery, uses NMC cells from CATL for optimum energy density and durability. With a 272hp and 343Nm torque filled electric motor integrated into the rear axle it can accelerate from 0-100km/h in only 5.6 seconds. This is figures for the rear wheel drive variant we are test driving here.
It is said to achieve a driving range of 440km (WLTP) between battery charges which is more than enough for most daily city commuting, with plenty of range to spare. Realistic figure is about 370km or so.
Interestingly, when the time comes to recharge, the ZEEKR X’s 150kW DC charging capability can replenish the battery from 0-80 percent in less than 30 minutes. Using the powerful 22kW AC on-board charger, a full charge takes approximately four hours, making home charging (better with solar panels in use) fast and convenient.
Meanwhile, the stylish and premium cabin comes with an 8.8-inch HD instrument cluster and a ‘floating’ 14.6-inch HD touchscreen. The software is easy to learn and use and all you need is a few days with the car to get used to it.
Another innovation is the 360-degree HD panoramic imaging system. Using wide angle cameras, the system is able to display a highly detailed image of the vehicle’s surroundings on the touchscreen. In busy, urban driving environments, it accurately predicts how far away objects and pedestrians are, enabling it to quickly alert the driver to potential hazards.
Using the touchscreen, the driver can select individual settings for the accelerator, regenerative braking, and steering to tailor the vehicle’s dynamic character to suit any kind of driving conditions, from peak hour city traffic to twisty JKR maintained roads.
Making every journey more enjoyable is a specially developed, 13-speaker Yamaha surround sound audio system, which offers superb, home cinema quality sound reproduction.
So how does it drive? Well, its quick, very quick like all other electric vehicles in its price segment. Handling is almost like a hot hatch and even with its large wheel and wide tires, it does feel nippy behind the wheel. Rear passengers have ample room (when there is just 2 adults), with 3 adults in the rear it is less comfortable.
The highway driving experience is best as the power delivery together with the firm solid handling provides for a large SUV like ‘feel’.
This close sibling to the Volvo EX30 comes at a lower asking price with higher cabin look and feel and this has Volvo sales people wondering why.
Zeekr X Premium Single Motor RWD Specifications
Motor: Single Motor (RWD)
Range: 440km
Battery: 69kWh
Charging Speed: 150kWh DC (0-80% in 30 minutes), 22kW AC (4.0 hours full)
Max power: 272hp
Max torque: 343Nm
Top Speed: 180 km/h
0-100 km/h: 5.6 seconds
Selling Price: RM155,800
