A Formula 1 World Champion to tame the Zeekr beast

If we tell you Finland, 2007 or simply “Ice Man,” do you become the one who will develop Zeekr’s 1300-horsepower monster?

2007 Formula 1 World Champion Kimi Räikkönen has been appointed as the new Chief Performance Advisor at Zeekr, the high-performance electric vehicle brand of the Chinese group Geely. Announced by Zeekr on X, Räikkönen, 44 years old, will be responsible for making the Zeekr 001 FR “faster and more efficient.”

The Zeekr 001 FR (FR stands for Future Roads) was unveiled in September of this year. As a brief introduction, it develops 1,265 hp (931 kW) and can theoretically go from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.2 seconds thanks to a Launch Control developed by Kimi.

Based on the Zeekr 001 marketed in 2021, the FR is equipped with an optimized chassis to host four silicon carbide electric motors capable of producing this devilish power. These electric motors will be powered by a CATL-origin Qilin battery with a capacity of 100 kWh, which can be recharged from 10% to 80% in just 15 minutes.

The powertrain, with an electric motor on each wheel, also allows, according to the manufacturer, the 001 FR to perform donuts… pointless but spectacular. All-wheel drive is reinforced by the Zeekr Vectoring Control system to ensure power is delivered when and where it’s needed.

Besides the powertrain, the 001 FR also features many carbon fiber components, more powerful AP Racing brakes, 22-inch forged alloy wheels, wide tires, and original KW suspension. Inside, touches of Alcantara enhance the sporty feel and dress up the 15.5-inch central infotainment touchscreen.

The target for the 001 FR is clear… Can’t wait for the first showdown between Zeekr and the Tesla Model S Plaid, priced the same.