Zeekr X: The Little Chinese UFO That's Finally Arriving in France
Some arrivals you wait for a long time. Zeekr's arrival in France is one of those much-discussed, postponed, re-promised ventures... before becoming reality. On April 2, 2026, the 100% electric premium brand from Geely giant officially opened its order books in France, with four models in its lineup. And it's the Zeekr X, a small urban SUV with an otherworldly look, that kicks things off as the entry-level ticket to the range. First deliveries announced as early as May 2026. This is enough to shake up an already turbulent segment of electric C-SUVs.
A young brand born for electric
Zeekr may not ring a bell yet. Yet behind this name lies one of the heavyweights in the Geely galaxy, the Chinese conglomerate that also owns Volvo, Polestar, Lotus and Lynk & Co. Created in 2021, Zeekr was designed from the start as a purely electric brand, positioned in the premium segment. In other words: aim for the top of the market, but with the agility of a young brand and the technological arsenal of a sprawling group.
The Zeekr X was unveiled in February 2023 and officially presented in April 2023. And right away, it turned heads. No wonder: this small 4.43m SUV displays radical, almost concept-car styling. Its design is signed by Zeekr's global design center teams in Gothenburg, Sweden, now headed by the renowned Stefan Sielaff (formerly of Volkswagen and Mercedes). Split headlights, short and sculpted hood, absence of front door handles... the X embraces a silhouette that leaves no one indifferent.
Under the hood: the SEA platform and three personalities
Like its cousins the Volvo EX30, the Smart #1 and the Lynk & Co 02, the Zeekr X is based on the SEA platform (Sustainable Experience Architecture), Geely group's in-house modular electric architecture. In France, the X comes in three versions, two drivetrains and one all-wheel drive transmission.
The entry-level Core RWD develops 272 hp (200 kW) and 343 Nm, with a 49 kWh LFP battery offering up to 330 km WLTP range. The mid-range Long Range RWD reaches 340 hp (250 kW) and features a 61 kWh LFP battery for 405 km of range. Finally, the Privilege AWD, the only four-wheel drive version, flexes its muscles with 496 hp (365 kW), 573 Nm and a 69 kWh NCM battery for 415 km of range. All use a permanent magnet synchronous motor.
The surprising detail? This Privilege does 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds. Sports car acceleration... in an urban SUV format. On the charging front, the Long Range RWD is the best equipped with a peak of 230 kW in direct current, which would allow it to go from 10 to 80% in just 18 minutes. The Privilege caps out at 150 kW, the Core at 130 kW.
Figures and anecdotes that bring a smile
The Zeekr X has no shortage of clever touches. Among the most striking: a facial recognition unlocking system, thanks to a 3D camera housed in the door pillar. No need for a key... if you're willing to be recognized by your car. Inside, you'll find generous tech specs, with GPS, adaptive cruise control, 360° cameras and powered tailgate from the base version, according to L'Argus.
One thing to note: with 330 to 415 km of WLTP range depending on the version, the X remains slightly short of segment references in terms of range. A trade-off accepted in exchange for high performance and plentiful equipment. Another tax subtlety, and not a minor one: produced in China, Zeekr models are not eligible for the ecological bonus or the CEE Boost scheme. Pricing starts at €37,990 including tax, with a leasing offer from €394/month.
For its rollout, Zeekr is thinking big: between 25 and 30 sales points targeted across the country, the first having opened in Aix-en-Provence, with Paris, Lyon, Fréjus, Saint-Étienne and Rennes in the sights. All wrapped up with a record 10-year or 200,000 km warranty.
An outsider to watch closely
So, does the Zeekr X deserve your attention? On paper, this small SUV checks many boxes: standout design, stunning performance, cutting-edge technology and an unbeatable warranty. The challenge is to deliver results against well-established German rivals and reassure on reliability and after-sales service, still under construction.
One thing's for sure: this Chinese troublemaker has what it takes to pique the curiosity of unconventional electric enthusiasts. Want to know more and browse the model's official documents? Find the Zeekr X brochures on Brochure Auto, and if you're already behind the wheel, check out the Zeekr X user manual to make sure you don't miss anything about this one-of-a-kind SUV.
