Spy Shots Reveal 2026 Zeekr 001, Performance Variant to Exceed 2,000 Horsepower

The 2026 Zeekr 001 will feature minor exterior updates, a standard 800V high-voltage architecture across the lineup, and a new-generation electric motor.

The high-performance variant, the all-new 001 FR, is currently under testing and is expected to adopt a quad axial flux motor setup with a total output exceeding 2,000 hp.

A new set of spy shots of the 2026 Zeekr 001 has recently surfaced on social media.

Compared to the current version, the 2026 model receives subtle design tweaks. The prototype vehicle features a redesigned front bumper, which shares some styling cues with the Lynk & Co 03+. A new air intake design beneath the headlights may contribute to aerodynamic optimization by improving airflow and reducing drag at high speeds.

From the side profile, it’s evident that the reshaped bumper also reduces the vehicle’s approach angle, suggesting that the updated body kit is aimed at enhancing aerodynamic efficiency.

All variants of the 2026 Zeekr 001 will continue to be built on the 800V high-voltage architecture.

• The RWD variant is expected to feature a newly developed drive motor under the SEA (Sustainable Experience Architecture), delivering up to 370 kW of power.
• The AWD version is projected to offer a combined output of at least 580 kW, with a 0–100 km/h acceleration time of around 3.3 seconds.

For reference, the current 2025 Zeekr 001 comes standard with an 800V architecture and SiC (Silicon Carbide) powertrain technology, with pricing ranging from RMB 259,000 to 329,000.

In parallel with the mainline model, Zeekr is also working on a major update to the performance-focused 001 FR. The existing 001 FR was launched on October 27, 2023, as a top-tier variant based on the 2023 Zeekr 001. 

Priced from RMB 769,000, the vehicle comes equipped with a comprehensive carbon fiber aerodynamic package and debuted the world’s first mass-produced quad-motor distributed drive system, delivering a combined output of 1,300 horsepower. It also features high-end performance hardware such as 10-piston brake calipers, KW suspension components, and semi-slick tires. While the model showcased Zeekr’s engineering capabilities and served as a performance benchmark for the brand, it saw limited commercial success, mainly due to its steep price point.

Although the standard Zeekr 001 has gone through two annual refreshes, the 001 FR has not received any major updates since its debut.

According to Chinese automotive blogger @MetaAuto, development of the next-generation 001 FR is already underway. In response to rising competition from models like the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra, the updated FR is expected to feature a completely new setup with four axial flux motors and a total system output surpassing 2,000 horsepower. The white body structure will be fully differentiated from the regular 001 to reduce weight and increase structural rigidity. The new FR is reportedly being tested with the goal of challenging lap time records for production vehicles at the Nürburgring Nordschleife.

Meanwhile, Zeekr is under increasing market pressure due to slowing momentum in its core product lines. According to sales data released on July 1, Zeekr Technology Group delivered a total of 43,012 vehicles in June 2025, with Zeekr-branded deliveries accounting for 16,702 units—a year-over-year decline of 17%.

Despite offering a growing portfolio including the Zeekr 001, 007, 7X, 009, X, and MIX, the brand is struggling to maintain momentum for the Zeekr 001. Once a volume leader with monthly sales peaking above 18,000 units, the 001 only achieved 17,900 units in total sales during the first half of 2025—a year-over-year drop of 65.1%. Monthly deliveries have since plateaued around 3,000 units. Facing mounting competition from rivals like the Xiaomi SU7 and BYD Han L, the 001’s current product strength appears insufficient to hold its ground in the market. As such, the upcoming facelift will be critical to reviving the model’s competitiveness and reestablishing its relevance in the premium EV segment.