Zeekr has officially announced its second plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model, the Zeekr 8X. Positioned below the flagship Zeekr 9X, the 8X is expected to be more accessible while remaining firmly within the premium SUV segment. Pricing is reported to start at around RMB 430,000, undercutting the Zeekr 9X, which is priced between RMB 465,900 and RMB 599,900.
The Zeekr 8X will be built on the SEA-S (Sustainable Experience Architecture) platform and will adopt a 900-volt high-voltage electrical architecture, the same advanced system used by the larger 9X. Although official powertrain specifications have yet to be released, industry sources suggest the 8X will share much of its technology and mechanical layout with its sibling.
For reference, the Zeekr 9X combines a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 279 hp with three electric motors. The system delivers a total output of 1,381 hp and 1,410 Nm of torque, enabling a 0–100 km/h sprint in just 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 240 km/h. Given its smaller size and potentially lower weight, the Zeekr 8X could achieve comparable performance figures.
The Zeekr 9X is equipped with a 70 kWh lithium-ion battery, providing up to 355 km of pure electric range (CLTC) and a combined driving range of 1,165 km. If the 8X inherits a similar battery setup, its overall efficiency and range could be equally impressive.
While the final exterior design remains concealed under camouflage, teaser footage released on Weibo indicates that the Zeekr 8X will feature a scaled-down interpretation of the 9X’s design language. This includes split daytime running lights, headlights integrated into the front bumper, and a bold front fascia. At the rear, a full-width LED taillight is present, though with a more tapered and simplified layout compared to the dual-layer arrangement on the 9X.
Inside, the Zeekr 8X is rumoured to offer five-, six-, and seven-seat configurations. The cabin is expected to match the brand’s high-end standards, potentially featuring wood veneer trim, a 16.8-million-colour ambient lighting system, and an integrated refrigerator.
A roof-mounted LiDAR sensor suggests the inclusion of a comprehensive driver-assistance suite similar to that of the Zeekr 9X. This could enable SAE Level 3 autonomous driving functions, including Navigate on Autopilot (NOA), Forward Crossing Warning and Assistance (FCWA), and Remote Automatic Parking (RAP).
| Specification | Zeekr 8X (Expected) | Zeekr 9X |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | SEA-S | SEA-S |
| Electrical Architecture | 900V | 900V |
| Powertrain Type | PHEV | PHEV |
| Total Output | ≈ 1,000+ hp | 1,381 hp |
| Torque | Not disclosed | 1,410 Nm |
| 0–100 km/h | Under 4 seconds (estimated) | 3.1 seconds |
| Battery Capacity | ≈ 70 kWh | 70 kWh |
| EV Range (CLTC) | 355 km or more | 355 km |
| Autonomous Driving | SAE Level 3 (expected) | SAE Level 3 |
