Zeekr has announced its second plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model, called the Zeekr 8X. As its name suggests, the 8X will be positioned below the larger Zeekr 9X, and will reportedly to come with a cheaper – but still expensive – pricetag, starting from RMB430,000 (approx. RM250k). For comparison, the 9X is priced from RMB465,900 (approx. RM271k) to RMB599,900 (approx. RM349k).
According to CarNewsChina, the Zeekr 8X will be based on the SEA-S (Sustainable Experience Architecture) platform, utilising the same 900V high-voltage architecture found in its larger sibling. While official powertrain specifications for the 8X are not disclosed, industry reports suggest that it’ll be similar to the 9X, courtesy of its 900V platform.
On the Zeekr 9X, its powertrain consists of a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 279 hp and three electric motors. Combined, this setup delivers 1,381 hp and 1,410 Nm of torque, enabling a 0–100 km/h sprint in just 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 240 km/h.
Paired to a 70 kWh ternary lithium-ion battery, the 9X achieves a pure EV range of 355 km (CLTC) and a combined range of 1,165 km (CLTC). Given that the Zeekr 8X is a smaller SUV, these figures could potentially be higher if it inherits the same mechanical heart.
While the Zeekr 8X’s final design is still literally under wraps ahead of its mid-2026 launch, a teaser video on Zeekr’s Weibo page suggests the 8X’s design will be a scaled-down version of the Zeekr 9X. This is evident in the split-daytime running lights and the main headlights integrated into the front bumper, with the camouflage potentially concealing a large front grille.
A similar family aesthetic is applied at the rear, where the 8X sports a full-width LED taillight. However, it deviates from the 9X’s dual-tier setup; while its sibling features two distinct full-width elements, the 8X adopts a more tapered look, with the lower lighting element stopping short of the vehicle’s full width.
Inside, the Zeekr 8X is rumoured to offer versatile seating configurations, including five-, six-, and seven-seat layouts. The cabin could also inherit the same high-end amenities as those found in the 9X, such as premium wood veneer trim, a 16.8-million-colour ambient lighting system, and an integrated refrigerator.
The presence of a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor also suggests a driver-assistance suite similar to the 9X’s, potentially featuring SAE-Level 3 autonomous driving capabilities. These include features such as point-to-point Navigate on Autopilot (NOA), Forward Crossing Warning and Assistance (FCWA), and Remote Automatic Parking (RAP).
