Watch out Tesla Model Y – yet another Chinese mid-size electric SUV is coming after Australia’s favorite EV, but is the Zeekr 7X any good?
The electric vehicle market is rapidly expanding and more and more car manufacturers are jumping on the bandwagon to produce their own versions. Tesla has been leading the charge and has captured the hearts of many Australians with their Model Y. However, it seems that the competition is not backing down and a new contender from China is ready to make its mark in Australia – the Zeekr 7X.
Zeekr is the latest brand under the Chinese automotive giant, Geely, which also owns Volvo and Polestar. The Zeekr 7X is their first EV and it is making waves with its impressive specs and features. But the big question is, can it compete with the popular Tesla Model Y?
Let’s take a closer look at the Zeekr 7X and see if it has what it takes to dethrone the Tesla Model Y as Australia’s favorite EV.
Design
The Zeekr 7X boasts a sleek and modern design that is both eye-catching and aerodynamic. It features a sporty front grille, slim headlights, and a low stance that gives it a more aggressive look compared to the Model Y. The overall design is similar to its European counterparts and it definitely stands out from the crowd.
On the other hand, the Tesla Model Y has a more minimalist design with its smooth lines and seamless glass roof. It has a futuristic look that appeals to many EV enthusiasts. However, some may find the Zeekr 7X more visually appealing due to its sportier and more dynamic design.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the Zeekr 7X certainly doesn’t disappoint. It is equipped with two electric motors that produce a combined output of 544 horsepower, allowing it to go from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.8 seconds. This is slightly faster than the Model Y’s 0 to 100km/h time of 4.8 seconds.
In terms of range, the Zeekr 7X offers an impressive 700km on a single charge, making it one of the longest-range EVs in the market. The Model Y, on the other hand, has a maximum range of 505km. This gives the Zeekr 7X an advantage for longer trips and eliminates the need for frequent charging.
Technology and Features
The Zeekr 7X is packed with advanced technology and features that rival those of the Model Y. It comes with a 15.4-inch infotainment screen and a digital instrument cluster, both of which are larger than the Model Y’s 15-inch central display and 12.3-inch driver display.
The 7X also features a hands-free driving function called “Zeekr Pilot” which utilizes cameras and sensors to provide autonomous driving on highways. This is similar to Tesla’s “Autopilot” but with more advanced capabilities.
Safety is also a top priority for the Zeekr 7X, with features such as automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and lane departure warning included as standard. It also has a five-star safety rating, making it a safe and reliable choice for families.
Price
One of the main factors that set the Zeekr 7X apart from the Model Y is its price. While the official pricing for the 7X in Australia has not been announced yet, it is estimated to be around $60,000 to $70,000. This is significantly lower than the Model Y’s starting price of $74,900. With its impressive specs and features, the Zeekr 7X offers great value for money and may attract more budget-conscious buyers.
Availability
The Zeekr 7X is expected to hit the Australian market in 2022, which is also the same year that the Model Y will be arriving. However, with the increasing demand for electric vehicles, there is a possibility that the Zeekr 7X may face some delays in production and delivery.
Conclusion
It is clear that the Zeekr 7X is a strong contender in the mid-size electric SUV market. It offers impressive performance, advanced technology, and a more affordable price compared to the Model Y. However, it may still face challenges in gaining consumer trust and competing with Tesla’s strong brand reputation.
