Zeekr 001: Review and Is It Worth Importing from China
The most popular EV among importers from China: Zeekr 001 versions and batteries, real winter range, weak points and the final import economics.
Looking at AVTOORDER's order statistics, the Zeekr 001 consistently stays in the top three most requested electric cars. Let's figure out what earned it this popularity and who it suits.
What kind of car it is
Zeekr is Geely's premium electric brand, and the 001 is its firstborn: a large five-door shooting brake on the SEA platform — the same one under the Volvo EM90 and Polestar 4. Nearly 5 meters long with a 3-meter wheelbase — in cabin space it is E-segment, at a price noticeably below its European classmates.
Versions and batteries
The model has been updated several times over the years, so the year and facelift matter when picking a specific car. The basic logic:
- Rear-wheel drive with a battery of roughly 86–95 kWh — the longest-range option in the city;
- All-wheel drive (two motors, 400+ kW) — 0–100 km/h in under 4 seconds;
- Top versions received 800-volt architecture and very fast charging — but only on compatible stations.
CLTC range is 650 to 750+ km depending on the version. In reality it is 450–550 km in summer and 300–380 km on a winter highway. These are honest figures that keep the car fully usable for intercity trips.
Behind the wheel
The 001 drives composed and heavy in a good way: 2.2–2.4 tonnes feel like stability, not clumsiness. The air suspension of top versions swallows expansion joints, and sound insulation is excellent. The trunk under the huge tailgate opening is a rare "wagon" format for EVs.
Interior and electronics
Material quality is on par with European premium. The main screen is fast; Chinese versions get partial interface localization, and for navigation most clients use a smartphone via wireless CarPlay/Android Auto (availability depends on the year and firmware — check per specific VIN).
Weak points
- Massive, expensive 21–22 inch tires — budget for a new set.
- Winter consumption grows noticeably; without home charging, ownership loses part of its point.
- Some online services (music, app stores) do not work outside China.
- The recycling fee for powerful versions is calculated from power output — always include it in the estimate.
Import economics
2022–2024 cars with 20–60 thousand km are the most rational zone: the main depreciation has already happened, and batteries degrade insignificantly under normal use (we check SOH during inspection). The final turnkey price is usually noticeably lower than new electric crossovers of comparable size on the local market.
Verdict
The Zeekr 001 is worth importing if you need a big, fast and comfortable everyday EV and have somewhere to charge it. It is one of the most balanced Chinese EVs in terms of price, quality and performance. Want an exact estimate for a specific car — leave a request, we will inspect the vehicle and calculate the turnkey cost.