First look at Zeekr 7X all-electric mid-size SUV with super-fast charging

In an exclusive media event in Hong Kong on Thursday, Zeekr launched its latest all-electric family SUV, the 7X. Expected to land in Australia around October this year, the mid-sized EV will be available in three models, including a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) variant capable of up to 480km range (WLTP), and a long range RWD offering 615km. A performance AWD version with a 543km range sits at the top of the range, pushing out 475kW and 710Nm torque from dual motors.

Both the RWD and Long Range RWD can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 6.0 seconds from the rear-mounted 310kW/440Nm silicon carbide motor, while the Performance model does the 0-100 sprint in a whip-fast 3.8 seconds. 

The RWD variant – the only one to sport the fancifully-named 'golden brick' 75kWh lithium-ion-phosphate (LFP) battery – can charge from 10-80 per cent in just 10.5 minutes according to Zeekr.

With an 800-volt architecture, the RWD’s charge rate tops out at 450kW, though of course achieving this will depend on factors such as temperature, battery state of charge and how fast the charger in question can punch out the electrons. The fastest charging DC stations in Australia are 300kW-350kW depending on the unit, so we’d expect the quickest charge achievable would be around 16 minutes. 

For the Long Range and Performance variants, Zeekr has instead chosen its higher energy-density Qilin 100kWh NMC (nickel-manganese-cobalt) battery with a 420kW charge rate, which it says can add more than 540km range in 15 minutes. The typical recommendation for these batteries is to charge to 80 per cent the majority of the time, so daily driving range would be more like 430km in the Long Range version, and 380km in the Performance version, but the full charge range would come in handy for the odd long-distance trip. All models also get 3.3kW vehicle-to-load capability.

Zeekr 7X interior

Sliding behind the wheel of the Zeekr 7X, it's clear this is a car aiming to offer a premium feel without sacrificing practicality. Each variant comes equipped with sophisticated touches like frameless doors and a panoramic glass roof paired with a powered sunshade – perfect for letting in just the right amount of Australian sunshine. A sleek 'e-latch' allows entry into the vehicle via a fob or phone app, while the Performance variant has doors that open via a button on the B or C pillar (although it’s not yet clear if Australian versions will have this function). 

Inside, the driver and front passenger seats feature plush 14-way power adjustments with massage, heating and memory functions, ensuring a comfortable ride whether you're navigating city streets or heading off on a longer journey. The rear seats don't miss out either, featuring 10-degree power recline, manual folding options, and heating – ideal for passengers settling in for a winter road trip.

A tri-zone climate control system also promises passenger comfort in all seats, which in the Performance version are donned with premium Nappa leather upholstery. Both the Long Range and Performance also get rear privacy glass, and the Performance has in-built screens in the rear doors that can be opened and closed with the same window opening controls. 

Zeekr 7X tech and safety 

Tech enthusiasts will appreciate the cockpit, highlighted by a 13.02-inch high-definition instrument cluster coupled with an expansive 16-inch 3.5K mini-LED infotainment screen. Navigating through menus feels intuitive and responsive, courtesy of the smart cockpit driven by a five-nanometer Snapdragon 8295 chip by Qualcomm. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, keeping connectivity effortless, and there are two spaces for 50kW wireless phone charging.

Safety hasn't been overlooked, with the Zeekr 7X boasting an advanced suite of driver assistance technologies powered by Mobileye 12V1R ADAS, including a crystal clear 360-degree surround-view camera system and robust collision prevention features. Complementing these systems, the sturdy construction incorporates 2000 MPa ultra-high-strength steel, and triple-layer battery encasement. 

For those who rank immersive sound when pumping the tunes, the 7X Long Range RWD and Performance AWD variants should deliver a concert-hall feel through the 21-speaker ‘7.1.4 Zeekr Sound Pro’ audio system. The base model makes do with a mere 10 speakers.

Zeekr 7X drive and warranty 

Step up to the Performance AWD model, and sophisticated 'Carpet Air' adaptive suspension with electromagnetic vibration damping points to a smooth-as-silk ride, whether navigating bumpy country roads or gliding along the freeway. Standout orange-painted brake calipers pop behind striking alloy wheels, which in Australia will be 21-inch (China gets 20s, seen below). The RWD models get 19-inch alloys.

Local warranty details are yet to be confirmed but in Hong Kong, a four-year/unlimited kilometre warranty is in place for the vehicle and the battery is covered for eight years/unlimited kilometres.

Zeekr 7X price 

Likewise, local pricing remains unconfirmed, though there are leaks suggesting Australian drivers will be looking at from $65,000 for the RWD variant up to $85,000 for a top-specced Performance variant.

The 4.8m Zeekr 7X is set to compete against the likes of the Tesla Model Y (available from $58,900 before on-roads in its RWD format), and the Xpeng G6 (which starts at $54,800 in its Standard Range configuration).

Although a relatively new brand to Australia (it only launched in March 2024), Zeekr is selling through a franchise model with the likes of Autosports Group, which specialises in the prestige market. Zeekr is aiming for a more premium end of the market with its interior comforts, tech and luxe styling, so could attract buyers seeking alternatives to traditional luxury brands such as BMW and Audi. 

That said, it also slashed the price of its Zeekr X by up to $7000 in April, so pricing it would seem is still very much up in the air. Full local specifications and pricing will be announced closer to launch date. Check our socials for a closer look.