Hot 2024 Zeekr 001 FR to attack Tesla Model S Plaid
Geely’s Zeekr EV brand says ‘Plaid is dull’ as it prepares to unleash first super-sedan based on 001Zeekr has released teaser images of the all-new 2024 Zeekr 001 FR – the Geely-owned premium EV brand’s first-ever super-sedan that’s taking direct aim at the Tesla Model S Plaid.
And given the manic Tesla sports flagship is no longer coming to Australia, Geely’s well-progressed plans to launch a range of new EVs Down Under could see the Zeekr 001 FR head this way.
Published on Zeekr’s Twitter account, the teaser images of the low-riding, big-wing 001 FR are accompanied with the caption ‘Plaid is dull’, suggesting in no uncertain terms that the Chinese newcomer will pack even more performance than the Tesla Model S Plaid.
Plaid is dull. The #ZEEKR001FR is a new type of beast. Standby for more information. pic.twitter.com/phlcxiYcLG
— ZEEKR (@ZEEKRGlobal) August 10, 2023
If that’s true, expect the new Zeekr super-sedan to at least match the incredible 760kW the triple-motor Plaid churns out, and for it to launch from 0-100km/h in around 2.0 seconds.
It’s thought the 001 FR is just days away from its official debut, with first customer deliveries expected late this year in China.
It’s rumoured to cost around 1 million yuan ($A212,000), which is upstream of what Tesla was asking for the Model S Plaid ($186,990 plus on-road costs) when it was available to order in Australia – before prices were scrubbed in December 2021 and the entire Model S (and Model X) range was officially axed in our market earlier this year.
Sitting low to the ground and sporting a deep front splitter, imposing rear wing, side skirts and a big rear diffuser, Zeekr may also offer a more track-focused version.
Indeed, the 001 FR has been snapped on an unknown racetrack, so there could be a lap record attempt at the Nurburgring in the offing too.
We’ve already sampled a variety of Zeekr cars that are possible contender for launch in Australia – including the Zeekr 001 and the Zeekr X – and have come away impressed.
Watch this space…
Related: Zeekr X 2023 Review – International
Related: Chinese giant Geely plans Aussie attack
Related: Zeekr 001 2022 Review – International
Related: Geely launches pure-electric Zeekr brand
Related: Tesla Model S Plaid is hypercar-quick
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