Zeekr, the premium automotive brand under Geely, is reportedly exploring the development of a rugged luxury SUV aimed at competing with the Mercedes-Benz G-Class as it considers expanding its vehicle lineup into the off-road segment.
According to local media outlet Auto Time, citing people familiar with the matter, Zeekr has approached multiple suppliers to discuss technical requirements for a boxy off-road SUV. The project remains at an early stage and has not yet received formal approval or an internal codename. Suppliers have reportedly referred to it as Zeekr’s proposed Mercedes-Benz G-Class rival.
Based on the project’s current progress, sources cited by the report estimate that mass production could begin in 2028 or 2029. Zeekr has not officially announced a production schedule or confirmed the vehicle’s development.
Off-Road Design and Technology Under Consideration
The SUV’s design and engineering specifications have not been finalized. According to the report, Zeekr is evaluating several technical approaches, including unibody or semi-unibody construction, independently controlled electric drive systems, long-travel air suspension and intelligent vehicle recovery technology.
These features are being considered as part of an effort to combine premium comfort with off-road driving capability.
If developed, the model would add a dedicated rugged SUV to Zeekr’s existing range, which currently focuses on urban SUVs, sedans, shooting brakes and multi-purpose vehicles. Potential competitors in the high-end segment include the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and BYD’s Yangwang U8.
Zeekr Previously Signaled Interest in Off-Road Vehicles
The reported project follows earlier comments from Zeekr executives about the brand’s interest in expanding into additional vehicle categories.
In interviews with overseas media in May, Zeekr International Vice President Mars Chen identified hardcore off-road vehicles as a potential direction for the company. He also mentioned sporty sedans and sports cars as possible areas for future expansion.
Zeekr’s current SUV lineup in China includes the Zeekr 9X, 8X, 7X and X. The brand also sells the Zeekr 009 MPV and Zeekr MIX van, alongside passenger cars such as the Zeekr 001 shooting brake, Zeekr 007 sedan and Zeekr 007 GT shooting brake. Higher-performance and luxury derivatives include the 001 FR and 009 Grand series.
However, the company has not yet introduced a dedicated rugged off-road model.
Zeekr 9X Strengthens Premium Positioning
Zeekr’s exploration of another luxury vehicle category comes as its flagship 9X hybrid SUV expands the brand’s presence in higher-priced segments.
On October 21, the company said cumulative deliveries of the Zeekr 9X had exceeded 85,000 units, with an average transaction price above 530,000 yuan ($78,890).
Zeekr introduced a five-seat version of the 9X on July 28, expanding the model range beyond the original six-seat configuration. The additional version is intended to address different space and seating requirements among luxury SUV buyers.
The reported off-road SUV project could further broaden Zeekr’s position in the premium market, although its development, specifications and production timing remain subject to confirmation.