Zeekr says an electric ute is a possibility

Speaking at the local reveal of the 7X, Zeekr Australia Head of Ownership Experience Matt McCroarey said the brand is “constantly evaluating markets,” and that its Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) makes it technically possible to scale across body styles.

“The benefit of our Sustainable Experience Architecture is that it’s scalable,” said Mr McCroarey. “We can use the same architecture that we use in 7X, or the 009 large people mover, or smaller models across the SEA platform. So, the potential is there.”

That potential could extend to something like the Deepal E07 Multitruck, if Zeekr is able to leverage its existing model range and pop some utility on the back. With its platform already underpinning everything from small SUVs to people movers, a ute-style variant might not be as far-fetched as it sounds.

Another dual-cab ute option already lives within their ecosystem courtesy of Geely-owned Riddara, which is an electric lifestyle pickup brand currently on sale in China under the brand name Radar.

“The Geely Group does also own Riddara, which has a utility vehicle,” McCroarey continued. “If the market demands and dictates, then we’ll do our best to accommodate.

“We get customer comments all the time at EV shows and exhibitions, like, ‘Oh, when are you bringing this model?’ It’s all about viability.”

A LinkedIn post from the Geely business account last year confirmed development of a right-hand drive version: “Get ready for the release of an RHD electric pick-up truck, available in your market soon!”. The organisation did not confirm if Australia was on that list.

Speaking to carsales earlier this year, a Geely representative confirmed that a plug-in version of the Riddara RD6 would make its way Down Under, but the full-electric version is not. If an EV ute from the brand were to launch it would “be a brand new one” and is currently “under development”.

McCroarey explained, “We are predominantly left-hand drive in China and other markets, including Europe, so we need to weigh up: is converting to right-hand drive going to be beneficial for the business and also beneficial for customers?”

Zeekr officially launched in Australia in late 2024 and now offers three premium models: the Zeekr X small SUV, 009 people mover and the upcoming 7X mid-size EV.

The demand for electrified dual cabs is clear and upcoming models like the Deepal E07 will make it harder for brands like Zeekr to ignore the growing opportunity.

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