2025 is shaping up to be a transformative year for Zeekr (ZK), as the Geely-backed electric vehicle (EV) brand prepares to launch three all-new models, including its first-ever hybrids. On a recent call discussing sales targets, CEO Andy An laid out a roadmap that combines innovation, expansion, and ambition.
The Lineup: Zeekr’s Trio of New Models
Q2: Zeekr 007 Shooting Brake The first arrival will be a shooting brake version of the Zeekr 007 electric sedan. Combining sleek design with added practicality, this variant aims to cater to those who crave Tesla Model 3-like performance but with more versatility.
Early spy shots hint at a spacious interior and a top-tier trim boasting a 100 kWh NMC battery, offering up to 660 km of CLTC range and dual motors pushing 475 kW of power. Translation? A 0-100 km/h sprint in just 2.8 seconds.
Q3: Flagship SUV By summer, Zeekr will release a full-size flagship SUV, codenamed DX1E. Available in both all-electric and plug-in hybrid variants, this vehicle marks the brand’s first foray into hybrid technology.
The hybrid, dubbed “Super Hybrid,” is touted as a next-gen powertrain that combines the efficiency of EVs with the long-range flexibility of hybrids. Zeekr promises fuel economy on par with market leaders like BYD’s DM 5.0 system.
Q4: Mid to Large Luxury SUV Closing out the year, Zeekr plans to unveil the EX1E, a mid-to-large luxury SUV. Like the flagship model, it will offer BEV and PHEV variants, further broadening its appeal.
This dual-option approach underscores the brand’s pivot toward accommodating China’s growing hybrid demand, a shift that has accelerated in recent years as buyers seek solutions to range anxiety.
Breaking Down the Super Hybrid
Zeekr’s Super Hybrid system blends the benefits of battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs). Designed for low energy consumption during highway driving while delivering an all-electric experience in urban settings, it’s an intriguing middle ground.
While exact specifications remain under wraps until the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show in April, Geely’s Leishen EM-i system—on which the Super Hybrid is likely based—boasts impressive credentials: fuel consumption as low as 2.67 l/100km and a mixed range exceeding 2,300 km.
Ambitious Targets, Expanding Reach
Zeekr’s sales goal for 2025 is 320,000 vehicles, a significant leap from its 2024 total of 222,123 units. To support this growth, the brand is expanding its footprint in China’s tier 3 and tier 4 cities, aiming to cover 81% of these regions by year-end.
This strategy acknowledges a critical market dynamic: the untapped potential of less developed areas where hybrid and EV adoption is on the rise.
Globally, Zeekr’s network now spans 538 stores, up by 150 in 2024 alone. Such aggressive expansion highlights the company’s intent to position itself as a major player not just in China but on the international stage.
The Bigger Picture: Hybrids on the Rise
China’s shift toward hybrids is undeniable. In 2024, PHEV sales skyrocketed, far outpacing the growth of BEVs. Zeekr’s decision to embrace hybrid technology mirrors industry trends, with competitors like Xpeng (XPEV) and BYD leading the charge. While Zeekr’s roots lie firmly in the BEV space, its hybrid pivot reflects a pragmatic response to consumer preferences.
Charge Complete: A Look Ahead
Zeekr’s 2025 lineup isn’t just about more models; it’s about smarter solutions. With the introduction of its Super Hybrid system and a focus on expanding market reach, Zeekr is adapting to meet the diverse needs of modern drivers.
Whether it’s the sportiness of the 007 Shooting Brake or the versatility of its SUVs, the company is positioning itself as a brand ready to challenge not just its local competitors but also global players. If they can meet their ambitious delivery targets and maintain their growth trajectory, 2025 might just be the year Zeekr makes its mark on the hybrid world.
