Author: Erchai
This year, the independent automobile brands have made comprehensive efforts on MPV models, striving for high-end market. Recently, the Red Flag HQ9, GAC Trumpchi M8 and Zeekr 009 have gained quite a lot of attention, with high-end, intelligent and luxury being the main selling points. So, which one is really worthy of the name?
In fact, when the appearance of Zeekr 009 was first released, people found it hard to accept such individualistic and unconventional design, including the enclosed front face, oversized square grille, and sharp body lines. These avant-garde design elements, combined with its all-electric MPV identity, have made Zeekr 009 a highly controversial model. Whether the appearance is good or not depends on people’s personal preferences. However, the interior of Zeekr 009 is truly “high-end and luxurious”.
Based on the official interior rendering of the model, the layout of the front seats of Zeekr 009 is somewhat similar to that of Zeekr’s first model, 001, adopting a simple and technological design layout with a large central control screen matched by a full LCD instrument panel to create a sense of technology. The multi-layer design in front of the co-pilot seat, coupled with different materials, also creates a high-end atmosphere.
In addition, the layout of the electronic gear lever, cup holder and wireless charging are similar to those of Zeekr 001, but have been redesigned in terms of detailed shape. The simple design, coupled with few physical buttons, makes the entire front row look concise and delicate.
As for an MPV model, the second row is always a major consideration. Zeekr 009 adopts a 6-seat layout for the seats, which can be described as luxurious for a mid-to-large size MPV with a vehicle length of over 5.2 meters and a wheelbase of over 3.2 meters. According to the official rendering, the seats in the second row are also a big selling point. The new car seats look very thick and wide. According to the official introduction, the seat cushion is made of full-grain leather, ensuring a high-quality and comfortable riding experience.The headrests of the second-row seats are equipped with two speakers, which is a common feature in many luxury models of domestic brands nowadays. Based on our previous test drive experience, the actual sound effect experience is very good. In addition to these convenient settings such as integrated seat belts and foldable small table boards, the second row seats offer more configurations. The new car is equipped with Smart Bar on the door panel, which allows touch control of air conditioning, doors, windows, sun visors, and other functions. The air conditioning temperature is displayed through a 3.4-inch touch screen.
Furthermore, the rear seats are also equipped with a 15.6-inch central ceiling screen with HDMI/USB interfaces, supporting SWITCH access, wireless projection and other rich functions. This is also a configuration provided by many luxury MPVs and large SUVs. Although the frequency of use may not be very high, the user experience is still good.
I have high expectations for the space and comfort of the second and third rows in the Zeekr 009 due to its size. In fact, there is one more thing worth looking forward to in this car, and that is its battery. According to the official introduction of Zeekr and Ningde Times, the Zeekr 009 will be the first model matched with the “Kirin” battery of Ningde Times.
The Kirin battery is Ningde Times’ latest battery product, which adopts the third-generation CTP technology. It is said that its energy density can reach up to 255Wh/kg, and it can achieve a maximum mileage of over 1000 kilometers for the entire vehicle. Under the same chemical system and battery pack size, the energy of the Kirin battery pack is increased by 13% compared to the 4680 system.Carrying a higher energy density battery, the endurance of Zeekr 009 is definitely not low. According to the plan, Zeekr 009 equipped with the Kirin battery version will be delivered in the first quarter of 2023. Zeekr 009 will also make its official debut on November 1st and meet us. As the second model of the Zeekr brand, 009 is still very much anticipated.
This article is a translation by ChatGPT of a Chinese report from 42HOW. If you have any questions about it, please email bd@42how.com.