Zeekr is preparing to expand its global footprint with the introduction of two substantial new SUVs: the 8X and the 9X. While these models will initially debut as Extended-Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs), the brand has signaled that a fully electric future for these models is well within reach.
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Built on an Electric Foundation
Speaking at the Auto China 2026 show in Beijing, Kennet Pettersson, Zeekr Europe’s chief engineer for mechanical architecture, revealed that the 8X and 9X are being developed using a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) platform.
Although the launch versions will feature petrol engines to act as range extenders, the transition to pure electric could be rapid. Because the architecture is designed for EVs from the ground up, converting them involves a relatively simple process: removing the internal combustion engine and fuel tank, and replacing them with a larger battery pack.
“We started from BEV and then we put the engine in it,” Pettersson noted, highlighting the modular flexibility of Zeekr’s current engineering strategy.
Technical Specifications and Performance
The 8X and 9X are large-format SUVs designed to compete in the premium segment. They offer a blend of massive power and advanced charging technology:
- The Zeekr 8X: A two-row SUV measuring 5100mm in length, comparable in size to a BMW X7.
- The Zeekr 9X: A larger, more imposing model measuring 5239mm in length.
- Powertrain: Both models utilize a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with either two or three electric motors.
- Extreme Power: Dual-motor configurations deliver up to 660kW/935Nm, while the top-tier tri-motor variants produce a staggering 1030kW and 1410Nm.
- Charging & Range: Utilizing a 900V electrical architecture, these vehicles support “6C” ultra-fast charging, capable of boosting a battery from 20% to 80% in just nine minutes. While the electric-only range sits between 350–400km (CLTC cycle), the combined range with the petrol generator exceeds 1,000km.
Market Outlook and Australian Arrival
For the Australian market, these models represent a significant step up in size and prestige, sitting above the existing X and 7X models. They are expected to arrive in local showrooms between late 2026 and 2027.
While official Australian pricing is yet to be confirmed, industry analysts suggest a premium positioning:
* Zeekr 8X: Estimated starting price of A$85,000–$100,000.
* Zeekr 9X: Estimated starting price of A$100,000–$120,000.
The higher price point for the 9X is partly due to its expected classification under the Luxury Car Tax, as it will likely exceed the threshold for “fuel-efficient” vehicles. However, given the high-performance specs and rapid-charging capabilities, these models are positioned to offer competitive value against established European luxury brands.
Summary
Zeekr is leveraging a modular electric platform to launch high-performance hybrid SUVs that offer the range of a petrol vehicle with the technology of an EV. By starting with an EREV architecture, Zeekr maintains the flexibility to pivot to fully electric models as market demand and charging infrastructure evolve.
