By launching more models, Zeekr EV will not only “boost the growth of the Chinese market, but also “unleash the potential of Europe and other regions”.
The company expects to supply cars across much of Western Europe by 2025
Zeekr EV 001
Ambitions
Just as the global trade dispute threatens Chinese automakers’ambitions to enter Europe, electric car maker Zeekr is leveraging the market resources of sister brands such as Volvo Cars to enter the European market.
Just a few weeks ago, the brand began launching two EV models in Europe and plans to add seven more by 2025.
Founded in 2021 as an independent brand, Zeekr began selling the 59,490 euro 001 sedan and the 44,990 euro X compact sport utility (SUV) model in late June, competing with Volkswagen’s ID.7 and BMW’s iX1.
To get European consumers interested in the little-known Chinese automaker, a team of more than 500 people helped design its models in Gothenburg, Sweden.
With Chinese companies such as BYD, NIO and Great Wall Motor targeting Europe, these efforts could help make Zeekr stand out.
Challenges
Zeekr’s ambitions could face the threat of deteriorating trade relations. The President of the European Commission launched an investigation into China’s subsidized electric vehicles in September.
The survey could hit nearly $7 billion in imported electric vehicles and minivans, with tariffs likely to be imposed by the end of June, according to Bloomberg Industry Research.
The EU’s chief trade negotiator, who is on a four-day visit to China, said the bloc was pursuing a new strategy against China and called the current relationship “very unbalanced.”
Target & Strategy
As Chinese electric car manufacturers fight a price war, Zeekr is targeting 140,000 units this year.
By 2025, that number will jump to 650,000 units. In Europe, the first deliveries were made to Sweden and the Netherlands in November.
Sales in Germany also started in September.
By adding more models, Zeekr can not only promote the growth of the Chinese market, but also “unlock the potential of Europe and other regions.
By 2025, the company expects to supply vehicles in most of Western Europe. But North America is a different topic because it’s a different market, and North America is a market that ZEEKR’s management is looking at and taking very seriously.
