Exclusive: Another Chinese brand confirms NZ arrival

Another Chinese brand has announced its intention to enter the New Zealand market, with Zeekr poised to make its debut in the bustling electric vehicle sector.

As a subsidiary of the Geely Group, Zeekr is affiliated with Polestar and shares some technological advancements with Volvo, notably the ‘Sustainable Experience Architecture’ platform.

This platform underpins the Volvo EX30, Radar electric utility vehicle, and the Volvo EM80 minivan, which Zeekr also builds as the 009.

Responding to inquiries from EVs and Beyond, a Zeekr spokesperson confirmed the brand’s launch in New Zealand will coincide with its Australian debut.

The launch is anticipated later this year, with the brand actively recruiting in Australia for positions that will cover both markets.

“We are currently seeking talented individuals for various roles to join our team in the Australia and New Zealand markets.”

The specifics of distribution in New Zealand remain to be clarified. While Zeekr seems to be pursuing an in-house distribution strategy in Australia, industry speculation hints at discussions with intermediaries in New Zealand.

“We are evaluating the markets in Australia and New Zealand and will announce our plans in due time,” said the spokesperson.

Which models might we expect to see? Zeekr indicates that any vehicle from their current lineup is under consideration.

“All ZEEKR vehicles comply with global regulatory standards and are suited for various conditions. We will provide updates on the models planned for these markets in due time,” they noted.

Zeekr’s range includes the 001, a compact sports wagon; the 007, a competitor to the Model 3; the 009, a multi-purpose vehicle; and the X, a compact SUV. The company is also developing a rival to the Tesla Model X and manufactures a driverless shuttle for Waymo.

Zeekr first launched in China before expanding into Europe, with its inaugural European showroom opening in Stockholm, Sweden, in 2023. Sweden and the Netherlands were the first European markets Zeekr entered in 2023. In 2024, the brand plans to extend its reach to Denmark, Germany, France, Norway, and Israel.

Founded in March 2021 by the Geely Group, Zeekr was established as a premium electric mobility brand specialising in battery-powered vehicles, positioning itself as a competitor to Nio, Tesla, and others. The Zeekr 001, its first model, was officially introduced in April 2021.