Chinese electric automaker Zeekr has finally taken the first step in its global expansion strategy with the successful delivery of the first 001 model in the European market.
Zeekr begins 001 deliveries in the Netherlands
As part of Zeekr’s announced expansion strategy in spring, the first ship carrying its flagship 001 models sailed from China to Europe last August. The X SUV’s shipment followed in mid-September, advancing the brand’s efforts to compete in the European market.
Three months later, the Geely-owned brand finally kicked off deliveries in Europe. The first market to receive the inaugural 001 EVs was the Netherlands. It will soon expand to Sweden before landing in Germany in early 2024.
Jubilee vehicle
Electrive reported that the Jubilee vehicle to arrive in the Netherlands is a Zeekr 001 Privilege AWD – the top-of-the-range trim.
Zeekr’s European CEO Spiros Fotinos, Chief Commercial Officer Lothar Schupet, and Head of Sales Marc Bras attended the delivery event. They personally turned over the first 001 model to its first customer at the brand’s new Hi-Tech Service Center in Zeist.
“We’ve recently opened our first European ZEEKR Center in Stockholm and – in just a few days – Amsterdam. Now we are happy to hand over our first vehicle internationally – here, in the Netherlands.
This is very proud moment for all of us, and we’re delighted to see the first of many customers in Europe experiencing for themselves what makes ZEEKR unique.”
Zeekr’s European CEO Spiros Fotinos
For context, the RWD trim has a base price of 59,490 euros in the Netherlands, while the 400 kW Performance AWD trim starts at 62,490 euros. Lastly, the Privilege AWD trim’s starting price is 67,490 euros.
Expansion plans
Zeekr aims to launch its electric vehicle models in several European markets in the next two years, particularly in the Western side of the region.
Zeekr plans to launch its EVs in at least four Western European markets by 2024, and the majority of the region will follow in the next few years.
With these efforts, it seeks to advance as one of the top three electric vehicle brands on the continent. As of now, the brand only offers the 001 and X EVs in Europe. According to Electrek, it contemplates the potential launch of the 001’s quad-motor FR variant in the region if there would be demand.
“We are committed to making the transition to full electric simple, seamless, and effortless – not when e-mobility becomes an obligation, but right now, so that we can all contribute to a more sustainable future.”
Zeekr’s European CEO Spiros Fotinos
Zeekr officially opened pre-orders for the 001 in the Netherlands at the end of June. After the 001 deliveries in the Netherlands and Sweden this year, Germany will have its turn in early next year. By 2026, Zeekr will penetrate the majority of the markets in Western Europe.
