China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has released new details of a performance-focused version of the Zeekr 8X plug-in hybrid SUV, with the model already undergoing extensive pre-production testing and slated for an official debut in the first half of 2026.
Sport styling adds black pack, carbon accents and red brake calipers
The new variant retains the core shape of the Zeekr 8X but shifts the emphasis towards sportier design cues. It features an all-black exterior styling pack, an electrically operated rear spoiler, carbon-fibre trim elements and red-painted brake calipers.
Up front, the SUV keeps its lidar sensor and Zeekr’s signature cascade-pattern grille. At the rear, a full-width light bar is fitted, incorporating 54,894 diamond-shaped lighting elements.
Hybrid SEA-S platform confirmed; top speed quoted at 230 km/h
Underneath, the vehicle is based on the SEA-S hybrid architecture. The powertrain combines a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 205 kW with an electric motor, and the sport version is listed with a maximum speed of 230 km/h.
Further specifications remain unconfirmed, but early information suggests the car could adopt a 900-volt electrical system, a battery capable of ultra-fast 6C charging, and a tri-motor electric set-up delivering up to 1,400 hp at peak. Final performance figures and driving range have not yet been published.
Large SUV dimensions and heavy kerb weight
The sporty Zeekr 8X measures 5,108 mm long, 2,026 mm wide and 1,780 mm tall, with a 3,069 mm wheelbase. Kerb weight is listed at around 2,800 kg, with gross vehicle weight up to 3,300 kg.
For comparison, the standard Zeekr 8X is offered with triple lithium-ion battery packs rated at 55.1 kWh and 70 kWh, supplied via a CATL–Geely joint venture, providing an electric-only range of up to 328 km on the WLTC test cycle.
Brand push towards performance-led, tech-heavy PHEVs
The arrival of a sport edition broadens the Zeekr 8X line-up and underlines the brand’s effort to pair hybrid technology with bold styling and strong on-road performance-an approach increasingly common among Chinese manufacturers seeking to compete in the premium SUV space.
Zeekr is expected to confirm final specifications and trim details closer to the start of sales, but the latest ministry filing indicates the company is positioning this as an image-led, technology-rich version of its large plug-in hybrid SUV.
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