Will Zeekr 001 Disappear in 2026? Company Responds to Viral Replacement Rumor
Reports on manufacturing, labor and earnings with clear, practical context. Drives a Tesla Model 3 RWD; family hauler is a Volvo XC60.
In recent weeks, the automotive world has been abuzz with rumors suggesting that Zeekr's flagship model, the 001, might be replaced by a new model under a different name in 2026. These speculations, which quickly spread across Chinese social media and auto forums, have prompted the company to issue an official response. On October 15, Zeekr addressed the rumors directly, confirming that there are no plans to replace or rename the 001 model in the foreseeable future.
The rumors began gaining traction thanks to discussions among Zeekr owners and electric vehicle (EV) enthusiasts online. Many speculated that a new model would take over the 001's position as Zeekr's flagship EV. However, the company's official statement, released as part of their "Zeekr 001 Q&A (Part 3)" update, refutes these claims. Zeekr emphasized that the recently refreshed 001, which debuted on October 11, will remain a cornerstone of their lineup for an extended period.
The updated Zeekr 001 offers significant advancements, including improvements in its powertrain, chassis, safety features, driver assistance, and intelligent cabin systems. It retains its distinctive shooting brake design, maximizing interior space. These updates align with Zeekr's strategy to continue refining the 001 series, ensuring it remains competitive in the luxury electric vehicle segment. The company also highlighted that any future changes would be introduced through over-the-air software updates or optional equipment modifications, adapting to user needs and market trends.
Introduced in 2021 as Zeekr's inaugural model, the 001 has made a substantial impact globally, with deliveries surpassing 300,000 units across more than 40 countries and regions. The 2026 lineup is built on a 900V high-voltage platform, offering up to 810 km of range according to the CLTC standard. The dual-motor variant produces a formidable 925 horsepower, achieving 0–100 km/h in just 2.83 seconds, with a top speed of 280 km/h. Each model is equipped with lidar, Nvidia's Thor-U chip, and Zeekr's H7 driver assistance suite, illustrating the company's commitment to high-performance and safety.
Zeekr's decision to maintain the 001 as its flagship model reflects its confidence in the vehicle's design and market appeal. The car's price in China starts at 269,800 yuan (approximately 37,000 USD) for the 95 kWh dual-motor Max version, reaching 329,800 yuan (around 45,200 USD) for the 103 kWh Ultra+ trim. These price points position the 001 competitively within the luxury EV market, offering advanced technology and impressive performance. The company's strategic focus on the 001 suggests a long-term vision centered around this model as a key player in their portfolio.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Zeekr's commitment to the 001 demonstrates a strategic approach to maintaining its presence in the luxury EV sector. By leveraging advanced technology and continuous updates, Zeekr aims to keep the 001 at the forefront of innovation and appeal. While rumors of model replacements may arise, the company's clear communication and ongoing enhancements ensure that the 001 remains a pivotal element of its strategy, reassuring both current owners and potential buyers of its longevity and relevance.
About Priya Nair
Reports on manufacturing, labor and earnings with clear, practical context. Drives a Tesla Model 3 RWD; family hauler is a Volvo XC60.
