- Q1: After Zeekr 001 and Zeekr X were launched in the UAE in 2024, What is the current market feedback and how are the sales performing? Compared with competitors like Tesla, what are Zeekr’s core competitive advantages?
- Q2: As the largest EV market in the GCC, what are the core growth drivers in the UAE? How is Zeekr positioned?
- Q3: What is Zeekr’s current sales and service network coverage in the Middle East? Does it meet local consumer needs?
- Q4: The UAE targets 50% EV penetration by 2050 and has 94% EV owner loyalty. What are Zeekr’s sales expectations for the next 1–3 years, and what are they based on?
- Q5: What are the core EV demands of Gulf consumers? How do they differ from China?
- Q6: Charging infrastructure in the Gulf is still developing, and most public chargers are 22–50kW. Does Zeekr plan to cooperate with local charging operators?
- Q7: What models does Zeekr plan to introduce to the Gulf countries?
- Q8: Many Middle Eastern consumers are concerned about after-sales service from Chinese brands. What has Zeekr done to address this?
- Q9: How does Zeekr balance pricing strategy and luxury positioning? What activities help embed the brand in consumers’ minds?
- Q10: With EV CAGR over 20% in the Gulf, how will Zeekr improve user stickiness through services and community?
- Q11: How do you evaluate Cartea’s role in the Middle Eastern automotive media ecosystem? What cooperation do you expect?
As one of the fastest-growing premium EV brands globally, ZeekrUAE ZeekrKSA ZeekrKuwait ZeekrQatar ZeekrOman ZeekrBahrain ZeekrEgypt Zeekr has accelerated its expansion across the Gulf region, with the UAE as its strategic core. Following the launch of the Zeekr 001KSA Zeekr 001UAE Zeekr 001 and Zeekr XKSA Zeekr XUAE Zeekr X, the brand has attracted strong market attention and continues to refine its local strategy.
On December 9, 2025, at the BRIDGE Summit, the Cartea booth was honored to invite Mr. Gavin Li — the Managing Director of Zeekr Group International MEA — to the stage for an exclusive interview. In this in-depth conversation, Cartea speaks with Zeekr about its market performance, competitive advantages, network development, consumer preferences, and future cooperation opportunities—offering a comprehensive look at how Zeekr plans to shape the next chapter in premium electric mobility in the Middle East.
The full interview transcript is as follows:
Q1: After Zeekr 001 and Zeekr X were launched in the UAE in 2024, What is the current market feedback and how are the sales performing? Compared with competitors like Tesla, what are Zeekr’s core competitive advantages?
The market response has been very encouraging. Since our launch in April, we’ve seen strong interest from customers who value both advanced technology and a refined premium experience. Feedback on the Zeekr 001’s range, performance, and comfort has been particularly positive, while the Zeekr X has been praised for its smart packaging and premium features in the compact segment.
In terms of competitive advantages, Zeekr stands out through our SEA-M architecture, 5-star safety standards, leading battery and charging technology, and premium craftsmanship. What truly differentiates us is that we combine luxury and technology in a way that makes the EV experience effortless and enjoyable.
Q2: As the largest EV market in the GCC, what are the core growth drivers in the UAE? How is Zeekr positioned?
The UAE’s EV growth is driven by a clear government vision, strong infrastructure planning, and a consumer base that is highly tech-savvy and open to innovation. The country’s commitment to sustainability and smart mobility accelerates the transition.
Zeekr is positioned as a premium intelligent EV brand. We appeal to customers who want cutting-edge technology, safety, and a luxury experience without compromise. This aligns well with the UAE’s aspirations to lead the region in advanced mobility.
Q3: What is Zeekr’s current sales and service network coverage in the Middle East? Does it meet local consumer needs?
We have adopted a phased and sustainable network strategy. In the UAE, our showroom and after-sales facilities cover key demand centers, and we are expanding capacity based on customer growth. Across the GCC, we are working with strong partners who share our focus on premium service standards.
Our goal is to ensure that every Zeekr customer receives a seamless ownership experience—from purchase to maintenance—and current customer feedback shows that we are on the right track.
Q4: The UAE targets 50% EV penetration by 2050 and has 94% EV owner loyalty. What are Zeekr’s sales expectations for the next 1–3 years, and what are they based on?
We are optimistic about the next three years. As awareness of our brand grows and more consumers experience our products, we expect steady and healthy sales growth.
Our expectations are based on three pillars:
Strong product competitiveness, especially in range, design, safety, and charging efficiency.
Rising consumer confidence in EVs, supported by government initiatives.
Our expanding network and service ecosystem, which reinforce trust and long-term satisfaction.
We prefer to grow sustainably rather than chase volume for its own sake.
Q5: What are the core EV demands of Gulf consumers? How do they differ from China?
Gulf consumers place a high emphasis on range reliability, interior comfort, premium fit and finish, and advanced technology features. Climate durability is also very important due to high temperatures.
Compared with China, where digital ecosystems and intelligent features drive much of the decision-making, Gulf customers focus more on luxury, design appeal, and long-term durability. Zeekr is well positioned to meet both expectations.
Q6: Charging infrastructure in the Gulf is still developing, and most public chargers are 22–50kW. Does Zeekr plan to cooperate with local charging operators?
Absolutely. We believe user experience goes beyond the vehicle itself. We are already in discussions with several charging operators in the UAE and the wider GCC to explore partnerships that enhance charging convenience for our customers.
Our goal is to ensure that Zeekr owners can fully benefit from our fast-charging capabilities as the infrastructure upgrades over time.
Q7: What models does Zeekr plan to introduce to the Gulf countries?
We follow a strategy of introducing models that best match local needs. Today, the Zeekr 001 and Zeekr X are our core offerings. In the future, we will expand with models that combine higher range, versatility, and the latest smart technologies.
We will make formal announcements once timings and specifications are finalized for the region.
Q8: Many Middle Eastern consumers are concerned about after-sales service from Chinese brands. What has Zeekr done to address this?
Service quality is a core pillar of the Zeekr brand. From day one, we built our after-sales operations on global premium standards. This includes certified technicians, advanced diagnostic systems, transparent service processes, and extended warranties.
We also work closely with our regional partners to ensure parts availability, quick turnaround times, and a premium service experience that matches our product quality.
Q9: How does Zeekr balance pricing strategy and luxury positioning? What activities help embed the brand in consumers’ minds?
Our pricing strategy is built on value. We don’t compromise on premium quality, safety, or technology, yet we ensure our products remain competitively priced in the high-end EV market.
To strengthen brand affinity, we focus on test drives, experiential events, technology showcases, and collaboration with local lifestyle and innovation platforms. When customers experience our vehicles first-hand, their perception of the brand becomes very strong.
Q10: With EV CAGR over 20% in the Gulf, how will Zeekr improve user stickiness through services and community?
We believe loyalty is earned through consistent value. Our approach includes:
Comprehensive warranty and service packages
Digital services that enhance convenience
Owner communities and engagement activities
Priority access to new products and technology updates
We want every Zeekr owner to feel part of a forward-thinking, premium mobility community.
Q11: How do you evaluate Cartea’s role in the Middle Eastern automotive media ecosystem? What cooperation do you expect?
Cartea has quickly established itself as one of the most influential and innovative automotive content platforms in the region. Their focus on data-driven insights and high-quality reviews aligns well with our brand.
We look forward to deeper cooperation in areas such as vehicle testing, content creation, user insights, and social media storytelling. Together, we can help more consumers understand the future of premium electric mobility.
