At the recent Auto China show in Beijing, Zeekr unveiled its latest electric vehicle, the Mix, which is a reimagined take on the Multi-Purpose Vehicle. This launch signifies not only Zeekr’s progress but also the advancement of the entire Chinese automotive industry. Zeekr, a part of the Geely automotive group, has made significant strides in the electric vehicle market, having delivered 240,000 vehicles since its debut last year. The Mix represents Zeekr’s commitment to innovation and cutting-edge design.
The Zeekr Mix stands out due to its unique design features, particularly its lack of a B-pillar. This design innovation allows for a wide opening to both the front and rear seats of the vehicle, making it ideal for families on day trips. The vehicle’s electric powertrain enables a spacious interior layout, with small motors and batteries beneath the floor. Zeekr’s focus on providing a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience reflects a shift towards designing vehicles for leisure and lifestyle purposes rather than purely utilitarian needs.
One of the most significant aspects of the Zeekr Mix is its role as the first vehicle to showcase the new SEA-M platform, intended for MPVs, logistics vehicles, and autonomous robotaxis. Autonomous driving is a key focus for Zeekr and its parent company Geely, with the Mix serving as the initial example of this new platform. At the Auto China show, Geely’s brand JiYue showcased its self-driving capabilities, highlighting the Chinese automotive industry’s commitment to advancing autonomous technology.
JiYue’s self-driving software, Point to Point Autopilot (PPA), was demonstrated at the Auto China show, showcasing its impressive capabilities. The system, which is similar to Tesla’s Autopilot, utilizes camera-based technology with radar information as a safety backup. JiYue plans to expand PPA to 200 Chinese cities by the end of 2024, offering a Level 3 autonomous driving experience. This focus on autonomous technology aligns with the broader industry trend towards developing self-driving vehicles.
The concept of the “robotaxi” was prevalent at Auto China, with Chinese companies showing enthusiasm for this technology. Zeekr also plans to implement autonomous capabilities in the Mix through its M-Vision software, creating the potential for a Level 4 autonomous vehicle. This vision of fully autonomous driving, where passengers can engage in activities during their journey, is a key focus for Geely and other Chinese automotive brands. The progress made by Chinese carmakers in autonomous technology could potentially position them ahead of global competitors in the near future.
Overall, the unveiling of the Zeekr Mix at the Auto China show highlights the rapid advancement of the Chinese automotive industry, particularly in the electric and autonomous vehicle sectors. Zeekr’s innovative design features, commitment to sustainability, and focus on autonomous driving reflect a broader trend within the industry. As Chinese carmakers continue to push the boundaries of technology and design, the global automotive industry may need to adapt to meet the challenges posed by this emerging competition.
