Zeekr, a sub-brand of Chinese giant Geely (which has just launched in New Zealand with the EX5), has introduced a new flagship SUV: the 9X.
The company says it's a "bespoke fusion of Chinese artistry and cutting-edge technology". It's also very clearly a styling ripoff of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, but hey: if you're going to copy something, aim for the top.
The 9X does have a few unique selling propositions apart from looking a lot like something else. It's the first hybrid model under the Zeekr brand, the 2.0-litre petrol engine (205kW) and battery pack (no specifications quoted yet) aiming to offer the "respective advantages of pure electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV), promising disruptive innovation in performance, efficiency, and overall driving experience."
The CATL Xiaoyao battery delivers an all-electric range exceeding 380km, while Zeekr is promising 0-100km/h acceleration in just 3 seconds.
Rolls-Royces have sparkly bits and so does the 9X. There are 42,242 laser-engraved, diamond-cut lamp facets, creating a “starry sky” effect. Inside, the SUV debuts Zeekr’s latest G-Pilot H9 autonomous driving system, enabling "advanced L3-level" driving capabilities. That means properly autonomous driving is possible in certain scenarios.
The Zeekr 9X is set for a "global launch" in Q3 2025, accompanied by the operation of V4 ultra-fast charging capable of 1.3MW peak speed.
How much? It's unlikely to be Rolls-Royce pricing. Overseas publications are speculating a sticker in the $200,000-equivalent bracket, meaning it could be in Range Rover pricing territory. No suggestion it'll reach NZ of course, but with Geely's recent introduction to the local market, a Zeekr brand launch (it's already in Australia) is not out of the question.