Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Zeekr (ZK.N) has launched its first model in Australia, marking the beginning of its 2024 expansion into the region.
Two models are set for release this year, both of which will also debut in New Zealand later, as Zeekr aims to establish Oceania as a key overseas market.
Geely’s premium brand has made an encouraging start with its SUV, the X, according to Connal Yan, Managing Director of Zeekr Australia.
Yan noted that both the X and the multi-purpose vehicle 009 have already attracted over 2,500 expressions of registered interest.
Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers have shown strong interest in the Australian market as trade barriers in other regions increase. Europe is preparing to impose significant tariffs on Chinese-made EVs, while the U.S. market remains closed to them.
Though Australia is relatively small in terms of car sales, with only 1.2 million vehicles sold last year, it presents an appealing opportunity for Chinese automakers. The country lacks its own car manufacturing industry and is unlikely to impose protectionist trade measures.
Since 2022, the Australian government has actively promoted EV adoption to meet its zero-emission targets, and diplomatic ties with China have improved after years of strain.
Zeekr, for example, is optimistic that Oceania, along with Southeast Asia and Latin America, will become one of its major overseas markets. According to Yan, the introduction of new vehicle efficiency standards in Australia, set to take effect in 2025, is expected to further boost EV demand.
The company also plans to launch the 7X, a medium-sized SUV, in Australia next year.
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