Summary
- Zeekr’s Chinese EV models are starting sales in Australia, with plans to also launch in New Zealand
- The company has received over 2,500 expressions of interest for their first models, the X and the 009
- Chinese EV makers are targeting Australia as trade barriers increase in other markets like Europe and the U.S.
- Australia is an attractive market for Chinese automakers due to its lack of a car manufacturing industry and support for EV adoption
- Zeekr is looking to make Oceania a key market, alongside Southeast Asia and Latin America, with plans to launch more models in Australia next year.
Article
Chinese EV maker Zeekr has recently started selling its first model in Australia, with plans to launch two models in Oceania in 2024, followed by a launch in New Zealand later this year. The company, a premium brand of Geely, has seen strong interest in its vehicles, with the sport utility vehicle X and multi-purpose vehicle 009 already garnering over 2,500 expressions of interest. This move comes as Chinese EV makers are looking to expand into new markets due to rising trade barriers in other regions.
Despite Australia being a relatively small market with 1.2 million cars sold last year, it is an attractive market for Chinese automakers due to the absence of a car manufacturing industry and the lack of protectionist trade barriers. The Australian government has also been promoting the adoption of EVs since 2022 to meet zero emission targets, further driving demand for electric vehicles in the country. Additionally, bilateral relations between Australia and China have improved after years of tension, creating favorable conditions for Chinese companies like Zeekr to enter the market.
Zeekr sees Oceania as a key overseas market alongside Southeast Asia and Latin America, with the managing director of Zeekr Australia expressing confidence that Australia’s new vehicle efficiency standards set to take effect in 2025 will further boost EV demand. The company is set to launch another medium-sized SUV, the 7X, in Australia next year, showcasing its commitment to establishing a strong presence in the region. The launch of these new models reflects Zeekr’s strategic focus on expanding its global footprint and capitalizing on the growing demand for electric vehicles.
This move by Zeekr comes as Europe prepares to impose hefty tariffs on Chinese-made EVs and Chinese companies face challenges entering the U.S. market. With these barriers in place, Chinese EV makers are turning to markets like Australia, where the potential for growth and adoption of electric vehicles is high. By positioning itself in Oceania, Zeekr aims to establish a strong foothold in the region and capitalize on the favorable market conditions and government support for EV adoption.
The successful launch of Zeekr’s first model in Australia signals a promising start for the company, as it looks to expand its presence in the region and establish itself as a leading player in the EV market. With plans to introduce additional models in the coming years and capitalize on the growing demand for electric vehicles in Australia and New Zealand, Zeekr is setting the stage for continued growth and success in Oceania. The company’s strategic approach to entering new markets and leveraging government support for EV adoption positions it well for future growth and success in the region.
Overall, Zeekr’s entry into the Australian market represents a significant milestone for the company as it expands its global reach and taps into new opportunities for growth and market expansion. With a strong pipeline of new models and a focus on establishing a strong presence in key markets like Oceania, Zeekr is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for electric vehicles and cement its position as a leading player in the EV market. The company’s successful debut in Australia underscores its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and driving the future of mobility in the region and beyond.
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