Author: Chen Jianli
Following the naming convention of Jidu Auto, the third model is likely to be named “00X”, which was previously rumored to be “003”.
However, on February 3, Jidu Auto suddenly released the official image and name of the third model, which was different from all predictions. The name of the new car was Jidu X according to Jidu Auto. Although the new car should have been named Jidu 003, they did not want to follow the convention and instead defined the new car as a disruptive ride that would surpass the “3” series cars such as the Audi A3/Q3 and the BMW 3 series.
The new car is a compact SUV built on the SEA architecture. Although no price information has been released, Yang Xueliang, the Vice President of Geely, revealed that Jidu Auto is positioned as a high-end pure electric brand and will not launch products below 200,000 yuan. This means that the price range of Jidu X will be between 200,000 and 300,000 yuan. Do not rush to call it expensive for a compact SUV from a domestic brand that costs over 200,000 yuan. Jidu X is not a simple pure electric vehicle but a performance SUV that combines handling and acceleration.
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0-100 km/h acceleration in 3 seconds (within 4 seconds)
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Four-piston caliper + perforated and ventilated disc
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A-level SUV performance limit
The above three points are the key hardware information of Jidu X. Considering that the SEA architecture is also used and the wheelbase is 2750mm, it is hard not to associate it with the Smart EQ ForTwo, which also has the BRABUS performance version. However, judging from the four-piston brake system alone, the performance of Jidu X may be more powerful than that of the Smart EQ ForTwo.
Since the naming method broke the traditional Jinkou style, the design of Jinkou X must also show a difference in style. Compared to Jinkou 001, the front face of Jinkou X is more unique. Although it still adheres to the split-type headlights, the daytime running lights above have basically departed from the Lynk & Co elements. The main lighting unit also interprets the “hidden” layout. When it is not turned on, it is almost impossible to find that it is hidden in the horizontal grille under the daytime running lights.
Here I have to applaud the Jinkou designer for being able to play the “brand concept” so well, which is really rare.
If the design wants to show meticulousness, then the lines on the front hood are also essential. There is an obvious raised section in the center, and the curved lines on both sides are also connected to the daytime running lights. Although it does not reduce much wind resistance and streamline, it looks pleasing to the eye at least.
At first glance, the side of the car seems to be missing something. Yes, both the front and rear doors do not have traditional handles, but are replaced by electronic button-type door opening. The front door button is located on the B-pillar, and the rear door button is located on the D-pillar. If you are the owner and still have to carry a passenger who is riding in Jinkou X for the first time, do not rush to get in the car. Spend a few more seconds to demonstrate the door opening method to the passenger to avoid the embarrassment of not being able to find the unlocking location.
In order to implement the concise side style, even the charging cover is designed in a hidden style. After comparing the left and right sides of the body, the hiding place was finally discovered, which is the area above the C-pillar taillight. The position is relatively high, and for female users, it may be a bit difficult to lift the fast charging gun and insert it into the charging port.
The borderless design of the external rearview mirror is not new, which has already been used in Polestar 2. This is also the product of evolution for the pursuit of simplicity.
There are several important elements for the wheels of a performance car: the wheel hub should be large, the side should be level with the wheel arch, and the styling should be sporty enough. The JIekr X meets all these requirements with an expected wheel hub size of 19 inches (even 20 inches), and the matching tire model will certainly be the performance series that enhances the grip.
The braking system is a key point mentioned earlier. The JIekr X uses four-piston calipers on the front wheels, which is entirely sufficient for a compact SUV. Coupled with the heat dissipation effect of the ventilated disc, it can suppress thermal attenuation during intense driving and even track play.
I particularly like the rear view of the JIekr X. Viewed from directly behind, it is full of simplicity and futuristic sense, similar to a concept car. The sheet metal area has no extra elements. The slender light strip runs across the bottom of the rear windshield and the ZEEKR lettering in the middle shines, which basically can be recognized at a glance.
Viewed from a 45-degree angle from the back, the sudden sinking roofline, coupled with the straight tail, creates the effect of a Citroen C4 WRC rally car, thus distinguishing it visually from other SUVs.
In terms of size, except for the 2750mm wheelbase which is the same as Smart Fortwo, the Jinkexin (Xpeng) G3 X is bigger and wider than Smart Fortwo. Its dimensions are 4450/1836/1572mm respectively.
In addition to the official exterior design, a group of Jinkexin G3 X interior spy photos have also been recently exposed. Although this is not the final design and materials, it can still be seen roughly. The layout of the front row is very simple, with a taste of Tesla Model 3. In addition to the central control screen and full LCD instrument panel, the Jinkexin G3 X also has a large-size HUD head-up display, and the floor channel is completely through. The estimated storage space is still acceptable.
From another front interior picture, the materials used in Jinkexin G3 X are relatively exquisite. As a high-end brand, Jinkexin has not disappointed in terms of materials.
As for the function of the co-pilot seat, the Jinkexin G3 X is also equipped with a leg rest, also known as the “queen” co-pilot. This feature is relatively rare in the same level of models, and I am also concerned about whether the leg room of the co-pilot is sufficient for passengers to stretch their legs.
The rear seat is relatively spacious, and the stitching process is in line with the positioning of high-end cars. Panoramic sunroof will also appear on this electric car. From the perspective of sunshade and daily use, I really can’t understand why this design has to be adopted.
There are currently two models on sale under Zeekr, 001 being the earliest born, followed by 009. Both have extremely high mechanical qualities, and 001 has outstanding sales performance. As the third model, Zeekr X is expected to uphold the exquisite and high mechanical quality style of its predecessors, so I am very much looking forward to its final release.
And at the Shanghai Auto Show in April this year, Zeekr X will meet you on stage, and price information is also expected to be released together. Friends who are interested in it can start a countdown of more than two months to meet it.
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.