The Tesla Model S Plaid, boasting 1,020 horsepower, has enjoyed a monopoly in the high-performance electric vehicle sector for over two years. However, this could shift as soon as the coming month in China, where the Zeekr 001 FR is set to start shipments in October, featuring a potent electric powertrain delivering 1,265 horsepower.
Engineered by Geely Group, the Zeekr 001 FR is a souped-up version of the standard 001 mid-sized liftback that has recently become available in Europe. Yet, it's a different animal altogether.
Powered by four electric motors, #ZEEKR001FR produces 1,265 horsepower and can accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in just 2.07 seconds in a rolling start scenario. pic.twitter.com/aVjnl04K48
— ZEEKR (@ZEEKRGlobal) September 1, 2023
While the most robust version of the standard Zeekr 001 offers a dual-motor system generating 536 horsepower (400 kW) and 700 Nm (516 lb•ft) of torque, the 001 FR is an unparalleled powerhouse, cranking out 1,265 horsepower (943 kW) via its four silicon carbide electric motors.
This allows the Zeekr 001 FR to dash from a standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 2.07 seconds "in a rolling start situation," suggesting that a rollout is factored in. For comparison, Tesla states that its Model S Plaid zooms from zero to 96 km/h (60 mph) in 1.99 seconds using a one-foot rollout. It's worth mentioning that the Lucid Air Sapphire, with its 1,234 horsepower, is said to hit 0-96 km/h in 1.89 seconds, although no details of a rollout are provided.
Zeekr 001 FR
Since the rollout specifics for the Zeekr model are not disclosed and the acceleration times are measured to varying speeds, it appears these three performance EVs will likely be neck and neck in acceleration. A definitive winner can only be determined when these electric titans go head-to-head on the drag strip.
But the Zeekr 001 FR isn't just quick in a straight line; it also excels in cornering due to torque vectoring, enabled by its distributed quad e-drive system along with proprietary software and hardware solutions. According to the EV manufacturer, the car's system can instantaneously direct maximum power to each wheel, adjusting the distribution in mere milliseconds to offer a genuine high-performance experience. And yes, it can execute tank turns.
When it comes to recharging speed, the Zeekr 001 FR is equally impressive. It comes equipped with a 100-kilowatt-hour CATL Qilin battery pack, supported by an advanced 800-volt electrical system for rapid charging. Consequently, the battery can go from 10% to 80% charge in just 15 minutes.
The 001 FR also comes with an integrated satellite communication package, which ensures uninterrupted communication even in the most isolated locations, "essentially negating mobile network dead zones while traveling."
Design-wise, the 001 FR differentiates itself from the standard 001 with specialized interior and exterior elements focused on reducing weight.
The FR version flaunts a racing-inspired body kit, complete with a bolder front bumper, enhanced front splitter, enlarged air vents, side skirts, performance tires on larger wheels, and a rear spoiler coupled with a fixed rear wing and a sporty bumper that incorporates an extensive diffuser.
The vehicle incorporates multiple carbon fiber elements to enhance aerodynamics and add downforce, including the front splitter, mirror covers, rear spoiler, and rear wing. Interior images have yet to be disclosed.
Zeekr 001 FR
Zeekr has announced that shipments of the 001 FR will commence in October 2023 in China, capping production at 99 units per month. New owners will receive specialized training to familiarize themselves with high-performance driving.
In terms of pricing, the company stated in August that the 001 FR would have a price tag exceeding 1 million yuan ($137,750 / 127,330 Euros), making it less expensive than the Tesla Model S Plaid, which starts at around $147,000 / 136,130 Euros in China. The international availability of the Zeekr 001 FR remains uncertain.
Source: Zeekr
