Once synonymous with small, inexpensive electric cars, Chinese carmakers are repositioning themselves as purveyors of high-end vehicles. Ningbo-based Zeekr has announced its first electric sports car, priced above RmbB1mn ($140,000). The EV brand from private car conglomerate Geely has a good shot at going global.
Zeekr already has three high-end models for sale, with starting prices at around Rmb499,000. Last year, local peer BYD launched its own luxury brand called Yangwang, which offers an electric off-road SUV priced at Rmb1mn.
These high-end models compete with Tesla, which remains the market leader. But sales are strong. Last year, 71,000 Zeekr vehicles were sold in China. In the first half this year, sales are already twice as high.