Zeekr 001 FR: The Sedan-Shaped Electric Car That Can Perform Tank Turns
Equipping a vehicle with four electric motors gives it huge amounts of torque and allows each wheel to be controlled individually, which is ideal for improving traction off the line, helping it crawl over inhospitable terrain and, as this video shows, spin through 360 degrees without leaving the spot.
Tank Turns: Not Just for SUVs
Tank turns aren’t new, we’ve seen a few EVs demo-ing the tech in recent years, including Rivian, who later announced it wouldn’t be offering it on production vehicles because it was worried about the damage reckless drivers might inflict on trails. But while we’re familiar with SUVs performing tank turns, we’re not used to seeing regular sedan-shaped electric cars pull the stunt.
Introducing the Zeekr 001 FR
There’s no reason why they can’t, though, providing they’ve got the quad motor hardware, as this Zeekr 001 FR shows. The FR is the top model in Zeekr’s 001 lineup, a rival to Tesla’s Model S Plaid, and a car with plenty of talking points besides being able to chase its own tail in parking lots.
There are four motors to the Tesla Plaid’s three, and power stats that throw serious shade Tesla’s way. The FR is rated at 1,248 hp (1,265 PS) and 944 lb-ft (1,280 Nm), compared with 1,006 hp (1,020 PS) for the Plaid, though while both claimed the same 2.1-second zero to 62 mph time, the Tesla’s 200 mph (322 km/h) top speed far exceeds the 174 mph (280 km/h) Zeekr claims for the FR.
Power and Style
Beyond the powertrain, the FR distinguishes itself from lesser 001s via its carbon fiber body kit that includes a front splitter, side skirts, a rear diffuser, and a fairly large trunk spoiler. The roof and mirror caps are also made from carbon, and while the 22-inch wheels aren’t, being formed from tried and tested aluminum alloy, they do come wrapped in sticky performance rubber and are matched with 16.5-inch (420 mm) Brembo carbon ceramic front discs and AP calipers to help control the huge power output.
Expanding to Europe
The FR is currently only available in China, but that could soon change. During a recent interview with Auto News Europe, Zeekr Europe’s head of product and connectivity Alessandro Massimino said Zeekr is currently evaluating the cost of homologating the 001 FR for the European market to act as a halo model for the brand.
The Zeekr 001 FR is not just a sedan-shaped electric car; it’s a powerful and stylish vehicle that can perform tank turns. With its quad motor hardware, it offers incredible torque and individual wheel control. While tank turns have been seen in SUVs before, the Zeekr 001 FR brings this capability to a sedan-shaped electric car.
Compared to Tesla’s Model S Plaid, the Zeekr 001 FR boasts four motors instead of three, delivering an impressive 1,248 hp and 944 lb-ft of torque. This power allows the FR to achieve a zero to 62 mph time of 2.1 seconds. While the top speed of 174 mph falls short of the Tesla’s 200 mph, the Zeekr 001 FR still offers exhilarating performance.
Not only does the Zeekr 001 FR excel in power, but it also stands out in terms of style. Its carbon fiber body kit, including a front splitter, side skirts, rear diffuser, and trunk spoiler, adds a sporty and aggressive touch. The carbon roof and mirror caps further enhance its aesthetic appeal. The FR rides on 22-inch wheels wrapped in high-performance tires and features 16.5-inch Brembo carbon ceramic front discs and AP calipers for precise braking control.
Currently available only in China, Zeekr is considering bringing the 001 FR to the European market. This move would position the FR as a halo model for the brand, showcasing its capabilities and expanding its reach to a wider audience.
The Zeekr 001 FR is a sedan-shaped electric car that pushes boundaries with its tank turn capability and impressive power. With its unique features and stylish design, it’s a vehicle that captures attention and offers an exhilarating driving experience.