Latest news with #Rolls-RoyceCullinan
Time of India
7 days ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
UAE: From Bugatti Veyron to Rolls-Royce, why Dubai Police uses world's fastest, most luxurious supercars
Dubai Police use supercars like Bugatti Veyron and Rolls-Royce Cullinan to enhance public safety and showcase city's luxury./ File (AP) In most parts of the world, police cars are designed for utility, not spectacle. In Dubai, however, they are a statement. Since 2013, the Dubai Police force has rewritten the playbook on law enforcement visibility by curating a vehicle fleet that looks more like an elite car show than a motor pool. With Lamborghinis, Bugattis, Rolls-Royces, and even a flying hoverbike, the Dubai Police fleet represents a unique blend of security, branding, and futuristic thinking. The Vision Behind the Vehicles The transformation began in April 2013 with the induction of a Lamborghini Aventador into the police force. This was not simply about performance,it was about perception. The goal was clear: to elevate the image of Dubai as a global city of innovation, prosperity, and forward-thinking governance. Today, that vision is fully realized through a vehicle collection that symbolizes prestige, discipline, and a new form of civic engagement. Dubai's roads are filled with high-performance vehicles owned by residents and tourists alike. To maintain authority and presence in such an environment, law enforcement vehicles had to match the city's personality. These cars are strategically deployed in high-profile locations such as Downtown Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai Mall, the Palm Jumeirah, and international expos,where they serve more as ambassadors than enforcers. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Do you have a mouse? Desert Order Undo by Taboola by Taboola While many of them are not used for daily patrols or high-speed pursuits, their presence deters crime and promotes a visible connection between police and the public. The Fleet: Symbol and Substance The Dubai Police force boasts a fleet of numerous supercars, but the exact number remains undisclosed. The collection is constantly evolving, and while not every vehicle is publicly confirmed, the lineup includes an unmatched variety of exotic, electric, luxury, and tactical models. The Supercars Bugatti Veyron (2015) The most expensive and fastest car in the Dubai Police fleet, the Bugatti Veyron is powered by an 8.0-litre quad-turbocharged W16 engine that produces 1,001 horsepower. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.5 seconds and reaches speeds beyond 400 km/h. Estimated at $1.6 million, it is a symbol of unmatched engineering and status. Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 (2013) The flagship that started it all, the Aventador features a 6.5-litre V12 engine delivering 691 horsepower. With a top speed of 349 km/h and 0–100 km/h acceleration in 2.9 seconds, it turned the Dubai Police into a viral phenomenon practically overnight. Rolls-Royce Cullinan Mansory (2025) Unveiled at the Arabian Travel Market in 2025, this luxury SUV comes equipped with a 6.75-litre twin-turbo V12, enhanced to 602 horsepower by Mansory. The bespoke widebody kit, carbon fibre bumpers, and elite presence make it a showpiece and mobile lounge for dignitary-related duties. Lamborghini Urus Performante (2024) Fitted specifically for Dubai Police, this €280,000 SUV includes sirens, emergency equipment, and a weapon-safe box. With 666 horsepower and a top speed over 300 km/h, it blends supercar speed with tactical utility. Tesla Cybertruck (2024) A recent addition representing the shift to electric mobility, the Cybertruck reportedly generates over 800 horsepower, accelerates to 100 km/h in under four seconds, and reaches estimated top speeds around 210 km/h. Its futuristic design aligns perfectly with Dubai's branding strategy. Audi RS e-Tron GT (2023) Dubai's electric ambitions continue with this sleek EV, introduced during the Arabian Travel Market 2023. It boasts 646 horsepower, a range of 472 km, and can fast charge from 5% to 80% in just 22.5 minutes. Used primarily in tourist zones, it also offers information and assistance to the public. Bentley Continental GT V8 (2023) This V8 grand tourer produces 542 horsepower and 770 Nm of torque, reaching 100 km/h in under 3.9 seconds. Designed for elite visibility and event-based security, it's one of the most luxurious models in active rotation. Hongqi E-HS9 (2022) Dubai Police's first Chinese EV, this full-size luxury SUV features adaptive cruise control, a facial recognition interface, and acoustic alert systems. It marks the beginning of deeper tech integration into Dubai's law enforcement strategy. Aston Martin One-77 (2013) Extremely rare and incredibly powerful, this 7.3-litre V12 supercar generates 750 horsepower and accelerates to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds. Only 77 units were produced globally, making this one of the rarest police cars ever. McLaren MP4-12C Powered by a 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V8, this British supercar hits a top speed of 333 km/h and exemplifies mechanical precision. It's used for ceremonial events and official showcases. Ferrari FF With a 6.3-litre V12 engine producing 651 horsepower, the Ferrari FF was designed in part with input from Michael Schumacher . It combines grand touring luxury with elite performance and a nod to Italian engineering. Mercedes-AMG G63 Mansory Another Mansory-tuned SUV, this G63 boasts 710 horsepower and off-road capabilities, blending utility with visual impact. It's built for both terrain patrol and urban presence. Lexus RCF (2015) This luxury performance coupe produces 467 horsepower from its 5.0-litre V8 and reaches 273 km/h in 4.4 seconds. Acquired for AED 250,000, it's a sleek, fast, and budget-conscious performance car. Ghiath Smart Patrol Based on the Chevrolet Tahoe and developed by W Motors, the Ghiath features real-time facial recognition, an AI surveillance system, and integrated command tools. Ten are currently in service, with plans to scale up to 400 units. Additional Models Chevrolet Camaro SS Ford Mustang Roush Bentley Continental GT (W12) Toyota Land Cruiser 70 & 300 Series Maserati GranTurismo Audi R8 Mercedes G-Wagon Each of these serves a distinct purpose, whether for high-speed response, desert patrol, ceremonial display, or community engagement. Beyond Cars: The Other Vehicles of the Dubai Police Hoversurf Scorpion 3 Hoverbike A revolutionary eVTOL vehicle capable of hovering 5 meters above the ground and flying at 96 km/h. With a flight time of 10–25 minutes (manual) and up to 40 minutes autonomously, this quadcopter bike is part of Dubai's vision of airborne law enforcement. Motorcycles and Electric Bikes Introduced in 2014, these eco-friendly bikes are used in malls, events, and high-traffic zones. They combine agility with sustainability and are often favored for their silent, quick mobility. Horses Dubai Police maintains a mounted unit for night patrols in communities such as Al Qusais, Mirdif, and Jumeirah. Operational since 1976, this unit plays ceremonial and community-building roles. Helicopters and Fixed-Wing Aircraft Used primarily for aerial surveillance, crowd control, and emergency response. These aircraft are deployed during major events, cross-border monitoring, and disaster preparedness operations. Why Supercars? The Strategy Behind the Spectacle The Dubai Police fleet is more than an indulgence in wealth,it's a strategic tool of statecraft, law enforcement, and soft power. Enforcement Efficiency: Dubai's fast roads require police cars that can match or exceed the speed of offenders. Public Engagement: Tourists frequently pose for photos with the cars, which strengthens the relationship between the force and the public. Global Branding: The fleet projects Dubai's image as a city of the future, rooted in innovation, luxury, and excellence. Deterrence: The presence of high-performance vehicles serves as a visible deterrent to unlawful activity. Sustainability: With growing EV integration, Dubai is aligning its law enforcement with green goals. The Future of Policing? In a city synonymous with ambition, opulence, and vision, the Dubai Police fleet functions as a bridge between symbolism and service. From the Bugatti Veyron to the Scorpion hoverbike, every vehicle in this unmatched fleet is part of a grander strategy,to redefine public safety as not just a necessity, but an experience. Whether it's winning the hearts of tourists or showcasing the technological might of the UAE, Dubai has ensured its police vehicles are as unforgettable as the city itself.
Time of India
7 days ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
UAE: From Bugatti Veyron to Rolls-Royce, why Dubai Police use the world's fastest and most luxurious supercars
Dubai Police use supercars like Bugatti Veyron and Rolls-Royce Cullinan to enhance public safety and showcase city's luxury./ File (AP) In most parts of the world, police cars are designed for utility, not spectacle. In Dubai, however, they are a statement. Since 2013, the Dubai Police force has rewritten the playbook on law enforcement visibility by curating a vehicle fleet that looks more like an elite car show than a motor pool. With Lamborghinis, Bugattis, Rolls-Royces, and even a flying hoverbike, the Dubai Police fleet represents a unique blend of security, branding, and futuristic thinking. The Vision Behind the Vehicles The transformation began in April 2013 with the induction of a Lamborghini Aventador into the police force. This was not simply about performance,it was about perception. The goal was clear: to elevate the image of Dubai as a global city of innovation, prosperity, and forward-thinking governance. Today, that vision is fully realized through a vehicle collection that symbolizes prestige, discipline, and a new form of civic engagement. Dubai's roads are filled with high-performance vehicles owned by residents and tourists alike. To maintain authority and presence in such an environment, law enforcement vehicles had to match the city's personality. These cars are strategically deployed in high-profile locations such as Downtown Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai Mall, the Palm Jumeirah, and international expos,where they serve more as ambassadors than enforcers. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Kako sam osvijetlio svoje dvorište bez računa za struju Shark Light Saznajte više While many of them are not used for daily patrols or high-speed pursuits, their presence deters crime and promotes a visible connection between police and the public. The Fleet: Symbol and Substance The Dubai Police force boasts a fleet of numerous supercars, but the exact number remains undisclosed. The collection is constantly evolving, and while not every vehicle is publicly confirmed, the lineup includes an unmatched variety of exotic, electric, luxury, and tactical models. The Supercars Bugatti Veyron (2015) The most expensive and fastest car in the Dubai Police fleet, the Bugatti Veyron is powered by an 8.0-litre quad-turbocharged W16 engine that produces 1,001 horsepower. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.5 seconds and reaches speeds beyond 400 km/h. Estimated at $1.6 million, it is a symbol of unmatched engineering and status. Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 (2013) The flagship that started it all, the Aventador features a 6.5-litre V12 engine delivering 691 horsepower. With a top speed of 349 km/h and 0–100 km/h acceleration in 2.9 seconds, it turned the Dubai Police into a viral phenomenon practically overnight. Rolls-Royce Cullinan Mansory (2025) Unveiled at the Arabian Travel Market in 2025, this luxury SUV comes equipped with a 6.75-litre twin-turbo V12, enhanced to 602 horsepower by Mansory. The bespoke widebody kit, carbon fibre bumpers, and elite presence make it a showpiece and mobile lounge for dignitary-related duties. Lamborghini Urus Performante (2024) Fitted specifically for Dubai Police, this €280,000 SUV includes sirens, emergency equipment, and a weapon-safe box. With 666 horsepower and a top speed over 300 km/h, it blends supercar speed with tactical utility. Tesla Cybertruck (2024) A recent addition representing the shift to electric mobility, the Cybertruck reportedly generates over 800 horsepower, accelerates to 100 km/h in under four seconds, and reaches estimated top speeds around 210 km/h. Its futuristic design aligns perfectly with Dubai's branding strategy. Audi RS e-Tron GT (2023) Dubai's electric ambitions continue with this sleek EV, introduced during the Arabian Travel Market 2023. It boasts 646 horsepower, a range of 472 km, and can fast charge from 5% to 80% in just 22.5 minutes. Used primarily in tourist zones, it also offers information and assistance to the public. Bentley Continental GT V8 (2023) This V8 grand tourer produces 542 horsepower and 770 Nm of torque, reaching 100 km/h in under 3.9 seconds. Designed for elite visibility and event-based security, it's one of the most luxurious models in active rotation. Hongqi E-HS9 (2022) Dubai Police's first Chinese EV, this full-size luxury SUV features adaptive cruise control, a facial recognition interface, and acoustic alert systems. It marks the beginning of deeper tech integration into Dubai's law enforcement strategy. Aston Martin One-77 (2013) Extremely rare and incredibly powerful, this 7.3-litre V12 supercar generates 750 horsepower and accelerates to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds. Only 77 units were produced globally, making this one of the rarest police cars ever. McLaren MP4-12C Powered by a 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V8, this British supercar hits a top speed of 333 km/h and exemplifies mechanical precision. It's used for ceremonial events and official showcases. Ferrari FF With a 6.3-litre V12 engine producing 651 horsepower, the Ferrari FF was designed in part with input from Michael Schumacher . It combines grand touring luxury with elite performance and a nod to Italian engineering. Mercedes-AMG G63 Mansory Another Mansory-tuned SUV, this G63 boasts 710 horsepower and off-road capabilities, blending utility with visual impact. It's built for both terrain patrol and urban presence. Lexus RCF (2015) This luxury performance coupe produces 467 horsepower from its 5.0-litre V8 and reaches 273 km/h in 4.4 seconds. Acquired for AED 250,000, it's a sleek, fast, and budget-conscious performance car. Ghiath Smart Patrol Based on the Chevrolet Tahoe and developed by W Motors, the Ghiath features real-time facial recognition, an AI surveillance system, and integrated command tools. Ten are currently in service, with plans to scale up to 400 units. Additional Models Chevrolet Camaro SS Ford Mustang Roush Bentley Continental GT (W12) Toyota Land Cruiser 70 & 300 Series Maserati GranTurismo Audi R8 Mercedes G-Wagon Each of these serves a distinct purpose, whether for high-speed response, desert patrol, ceremonial display, or community engagement. Beyond Cars: The Other Vehicles of the Dubai Police Hoversurf Scorpion 3 Hoverbike A revolutionary eVTOL vehicle capable of hovering 5 meters above the ground and flying at 96 km/h. With a flight time of 10–25 minutes (manual) and up to 40 minutes autonomously, this quadcopter bike is part of Dubai's vision of airborne law enforcement. Motorcycles and Electric Bikes Introduced in 2014, these eco-friendly bikes are used in malls, events, and high-traffic zones. They combine agility with sustainability and are often favored for their silent, quick mobility. Horses Dubai Police maintains a mounted unit for night patrols in communities such as Al Qusais, Mirdif, and Jumeirah. Operational since 1976, this unit plays ceremonial and community-building roles. Helicopters and Fixed-Wing Aircraft Used primarily for aerial surveillance, crowd control, and emergency response. These aircraft are deployed during major events, cross-border monitoring, and disaster preparedness operations. Why Supercars? The Strategy Behind the Spectacle The Dubai Police fleet is more than an indulgence in wealth,it's a strategic tool of statecraft, law enforcement, and soft power. Enforcement Efficiency: Dubai's fast roads require police cars that can match or exceed the speed of offenders. Public Engagement: Tourists frequently pose for photos with the cars, which strengthens the relationship between the force and the public. Global Branding: The fleet projects Dubai's image as a city of the future, rooted in innovation, luxury, and excellence. Deterrence: The presence of high-performance vehicles serves as a visible deterrent to unlawful activity. Sustainability: With growing EV integration, Dubai is aligning its law enforcement with green goals. The Future of Policing? In a city synonymous with ambition, opulence, and vision, the Dubai Police fleet functions as a bridge between symbolism and service. From the Bugatti Veyron to the Scorpion hoverbike, every vehicle in this unmatched fleet is part of a grander strategy,to redefine public safety as not just a necessity, but an experience. Whether it's winning the hearts of tourists or showcasing the technological might of the UAE, Dubai has ensured its police vehicles are as unforgettable as the city itself.
New Paper
15-07-2025
- New Paper
$3b money laundering case: Singaporean jailed for lying to police
The personal driver of Su Binghai - one of the fugitives in the $3 billion money laundering case - has been dealt with for lying to the police about his boss' luxury cars worth $8.3 million. Liew Yik Kit, 42, is the first Singaporean to be convicted and sentenced in relation to Singapore's largest money laundering case. On June 30, Liew was sentenced to three months' jail after pleading guilty to lying to the police. Another charge of obstructing the course of justice was taken into consideration during sentencing. The $3 billion money laundering case saw 10 foreign nationals arrested in multiple islandwide raids here on Aug 15, 2023. The 10 foreigners have been jailed, deported and barred from re-entering Singapore. Su Binghai was driven by Liew out of Singapore via Tuas Checkpoint on the evening of Aug 15 - the day of the raids. The pair then stayed at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur before Liew dropped Su off at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on Aug 17, 2023. Investigations revealed that before Su flew off, he instructed Liew to help him sell his four luxury cars which were parked in his home in Singapore. These were a Rolls-Royce Phantom, a Rolls-Royce Cullinan, a Ferrari F8 Spider and a Ferrari Stradale worth a total of $8,364,297. Liew agreed as he expected to get a commission of around 1 per cent - or around $80,000 - for the sale of the cars. Su then left the four cars and their keys in Liew's possession. On Aug 18, 2023, after returning to Singapore, Liew went to Su's house and drove the four cars out, one after another, and parked them at a multi-storey carpark in Upper Boon Keng Road. Deputy Public Prosecutor (DPP) Louis Ngia said Liew did this despite not yet identifying a buyer for the cars as he wanted to quickly take control of the vehicles. Subsequently, Liew contacted car brokerage company Pro Carz to arrange the sale of the four cars. He then drove all four to Roxy Square on Sept 1, 2023. The keys to the four cars remained with Liew while the sale was being arranged. On Sept 11, 2023, Liew was called to give a statement on investigations into Su. He lied to the police that his boss did not leave any valuable properties in his possession. Worried that the police would find out that he had the keys to Su's four cars, Liew then drove the cars back to the multi-storey carpark in Upper Boon Keng Road. Liew's acts came to light when the police received information on Oct 5, 2023, that a blue Rolls-Royce, which was in the care of Su Binghai's brother, Su Bingwang, was found parked at Roxy Square's carpark. It was there because Liew was also arranging for it to be sold by Pro Carz, said DPP Ngia. This led the police to discover that the Pro Carz dealer had also applied for season parking at Roxy Square for the four other luxury cars - but they could not be found there. The car dealer later told the police that the four cars were in Liew's possession, and Liew was arrested. DPP Ngia said Su Binghai has not returned to Singapore since he left on Aug 15, 2023. In October 2024, Su Binghai and his wife, Wang Manzu, agreed for their assets to be surrendered to the state. These surrendered properties, including the four cars, were valued at more than $316.6 million, said the prosecutor. Assets worth about $1.85 billion have been surrendered to the state by 15 foreigners who are on the run from the police in relation to this money laundering case. In return, the Interpol Red and Blue Notices against them were withdrawn. Seeking a jail term of three to four months for Liew, DPP Ngia said Liew lied to the police as he was blinded by greed, trying to sell the cars to get a commission. Because he gave false information to the police, the cars were recovered almost one month later, and after significant effort had been put in the investigation, said the prosecutor. In mitigation, defence lawyer Kanagavijayan Nadarajan noted his client's early plea of guilt. Mr Kanagavijayan added that Liew subsequently cooperated with the police and helped the authorities recover two cars owned by Su Bingwang - a blue Rolls-Royce and a white McLaren. For giving false information to a public servant, an offender can be jailed for up to two years, fined, or both.
Perth Now
10-07-2025
- Automotive
- Perth Now
China's Zeekr has Rolls-Royce, Porsche in its sights with long-range 1000kW PHEV large SUV
Fledgling Chinese luxury auto brand Zeekr is launching its first plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and it has made some heady claims about this new flagship SUV. The Zeekr 9X has been 'engineered to embody the luxury of a Rolls-Royce Cullinan, performance of a Porsche Cayenne, and all-terrain capability of a Range Rover', according to the Geely-owned brand. After revealing the 9X's exterior in April, Zeekr has now released more details and shown off its interior ahead of first customer deliveries commencing in China this quarter. Featuring Zeekr's new SEAS architecture, the 9X uses a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine delivering 205kW of peak power, mated with three tri-silicon carbide-powered electric motors, for total peak power of 1030kW. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Zeekr claims the 9X can do the 0-100km/h dash in just 3.1 seconds, which would make it one of the world's quickest SUVs. It uses a 70kWh battery, the largest yet in a hybrid SUV, and features a 900V electrical system. That battery, sourced from CATL, is much larger than many other hybrid SUVs, and larger than many electric vehicle (EV) batteries too. Claimed electric-only range, depending on the variant, is up to 380km on the CLTC cycle. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Zeekr says the battery can be charged from 20 to 80 per cent in as little as nine minutes, with a 10-80 per cent charge taking as little as 10.3 minutes; like many PHEVs, the engine can also be used to charge the battery. The brand also claims the new combustion engine, its first and designed specifically for 'high-performance electric hybrids', has thermal efficiency of over 46 per cent. Zeekr says the 9X is intended to offer 'EV-era' technology and 'IC-era luxury and uncompromised performance'. It also promises 'best-in-class low-battery performance' and 'EV-like smoothness', as well as fast-charging capability and instant responsiveness. Supplied Credit: CarExpert It rides on dual-chamber air suspension, allowing for maximum ground clearance of 288mm, and features dual-valve continuously controlled damping and a 48V active stabiliser bar – the latter claimed to be a first for a Chinese brand. The 9X has selectable comfort, eco and sport drive modes, plus seven additional terrain modes: grass, snow, deep snow, mud, sand, rocks and mountain roads. There's a suite of active safety and driver assist technology, powered by five LiDAR units, five 4D millimetre-wave radars, 12 ultrasonic sensors, 13 high-definition cameras and two wading cameras. Zeekr says the 9X supports Level 3 autonomous driving capability. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert The Chinese brand displayed the 9X with a two-tone interior, featuring prominent wood inlays. There's a large, landscape-oriented infotainment touchscreen, under which sits a row of physical buttons, as well as a neatly integrated digital instrument cluster. There's a rotary dial on the centre console next to some more switches and a pair of wireless phone charging pads, with the gear shifter mounted up on the column. In a Mercedes-Benz-like touch, all of the front power seat controls are on the doors. Second-row occupants sit in a pair of captain's chairs, and can view a TV screen that comes down from the roof. Supplied Credit: CarExpert The boot is accessed via a clamshell tailgate. The Zeekr 9X measures a sizeable 5239mm long, 2029mm wide, 1819mm tall and rides a 3169mm wheelbase, making it larger than a Toyota LandCruiser. While its exterior features ample brightwork, including a bold chrome grille and Maybach-like 22-inch mirror-finish forged wheels, Zeekr previewed a blacked-out Nightshade edition. Zeekr Australia has confirmed a third SUV will join its local lineup in 2026, following the pioneering Zeekr X small electric SUV and the 7X mid-size electric SUV, though it hasn't confirmed which model. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Thus far, the only other SUV in Zeekr's global portfolio is the 9X, however, another PHEV SUV is expected to be launched soon in China. 'When introducing a new model to Australia in 2026, we need to look at the powertrain and segment,' Zeekr global product marketing director Tony Zhou told CarExpert earlier this month. 'We have a compact SUV, C/D segment [mid-size] SUV, and MPV [the Zeekr 009 electric people mover]. What will be next… is under discussion. We have BEV, big SUV, small SUV, hatchbacks, hybrids and PHEVs in our pocket.' MORE: Everything Zeekr
7NEWS
10-07-2025
- Automotive
- 7NEWS
China's Zeekr has Rolls-Royce, Porsche in its sights with long-range 1000kW PHEV large SUV
Fledgling Chinese luxury auto brand Zeekr is launching its first plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and it has made some heady claims about this new flagship SUV. The Zeekr 9X has been 'engineered to embody the luxury of a Rolls-Royce Cullinan, performance of a Porsche Cayenne, and all-terrain capability of a Range Rover ', according to the Geely-owned brand. After revealing the 9X's exterior in April, Zeekr has now released more details and shown off its interior ahead of first customer deliveries commencing in China this quarter. Featuring Zeekr's new SEAS architecture, the 9X uses a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine delivering 205kW of peak power, mated with three tri-silicon carbide-powered electric motors, for total peak power of 1030kW. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Zeekr claims the 9X can do the 0-100km/h dash in just 3.1 seconds, which would make it one of the world's quickest SUVs. It uses a 70kWh battery, the largest yet in a hybrid SUV, and features a 900V electrical system. That battery, sourced from CATL, is much larger than many other hybrid SUVs, and larger than many electric vehicle (EV) batteries too. Claimed electric-only range, depending on the variant, is up to 380km on the CLTC cycle. Zeekr says the battery can be charged from 20 to 80 per cent in as little as nine minutes, with a 10-80 per cent charge taking as little as 10.3 minutes; like many PHEVs, the engine can also be used to charge the battery. The brand also claims the new combustion engine, its first and designed specifically for 'high-performance electric hybrids', has thermal efficiency of over 46 per cent. Zeekr says the 9X is intended to offer 'EV-era' technology and 'IC-era luxury and uncompromised performance'. It also promises 'best-in-class low-battery performance' and 'EV-like smoothness', as well as fast-charging capability and instant responsiveness. It rides on dual-chamber air suspension, allowing for maximum ground clearance of 288mm, and features dual-valve continuously controlled damping and a 48V active stabiliser bar – the latter claimed to be a first for a Chinese brand. The 9X has selectable comfort, eco and sport drive modes, plus seven additional terrain modes: grass, snow, deep snow, mud, sand, rocks and mountain roads. There's a suite of active safety and driver assist technology, powered by five LiDAR units, five 4D millimetre-wave radars, 12 ultrasonic sensors, 13 high-definition cameras and two wading cameras. Zeekr says the 9X supports Level 3 autonomous driving capability. The Chinese brand displayed the 9X with a two-tone interior, featuring prominent wood inlays. There's a large, landscape-oriented infotainment touchscreen, under which sits a row of physical buttons, as well as a neatly integrated digital instrument cluster. There's a rotary dial on the centre console next to some more switches and a pair of wireless phone charging pads, with the gear shifter mounted up on the column. In a Mercedes-Benz-like touch, all of the front power seat controls are on the doors. Second-row occupants sit in a pair of captain's chairs, and can view a TV screen that comes down from the roof. The boot is accessed via a clamshell tailgate. The Zeekr 9X measures a sizeable 5239mm long, 2029mm wide, 1819mm tall and rides a 3169mm wheelbase, making it larger than a Toyota LandCruiser. While its exterior features ample brightwork, including a bold chrome grille and Maybach-like 22-inch mirror-finish forged wheels, Zeekr previewed a blacked-out Nightshade edition. Zeekr Australia has confirmed a third SUV will join its local lineup in 2026, following the pioneering Zeekr X small electric SUV and the 7X mid-size electric SUV, though it hasn't confirmed which model. Thus far, the only other SUV in Zeekr's global portfolio is the 9X, however, another PHEV SUV is expected to be launched soon in China. 'When introducing a new model to Australia in 2026, we need to look at the powertrain and segment,' Zeekr global product marketing director Tony Zhou told CarExpert earlier this month. 'We have a compact SUV, C/D segment [mid-size] SUV, and MPV [the Zeekr 009 electric people mover]. What will be next… is under discussion. We have BEV, big SUV, small SUV, hatchbacks, hybrids and PHEVs in our pocket.'
