The Rumor Widely Spread

Over recent days, speculation has spread across Chinese social media and EV forums that Zeekr might phase out the Zeekr 001 model in 2026, possibly replacing it with a new flagship under a different name. Some posts claimed the 001 would be discontinued, renamed, or merged into a new platform.

Given the 001’s importance to Zeekr’s line-up, such chatter stirred concern among owners and potential buyers.

Zeekr’s Official Clarification

On October 15, Zeekr issued an official response as part of its “Zeekr 001 Q&A (Part 3)” communication, directly addressing the rumors. The company stated:

• There are no plans to discontinue or rename the Zeekr 001 in 2026. 

• The refreshed 001, launched October 11, remains Zeekr’s core flagship model for the foreseeable future. 

• Future changes, if any, will come via OTA software updates or optional equipment tweaks — not a full model swap. 

In short: the 001 is here to stay — at least for now.

What’s New in the Refreshed 2026 Zeekr 001

Part of Zeekr’s defense rests on presenting the upgraded 2026 version of the 001, which demonstrates that the model is neither abandoned nor left behind. Key highlights:

• The 001 now rides on a 900V high-voltage platform, an upgrade over prior architecture. 

• The trim range includes variants with 95 kWh and 103 kWh battery packs.

• Output in AWD versions hits up to 912 horsepower, and 0–100 km/h in 2.83 seconds. 

• The vehicle supports ultra-fast charging — reportedly up to 12C, enabling a charge from 10 % to 80 % in ≈7 minutes for some versions. 

• Interior updates include a larger central screen (15.05 → 16 inches, with higher resolution) and enhancements to the cabin/UX. 

• Zeekr also removed some rear bumper reflectors for cleaner styling and maintained the shooting-brake design identity. 

These upgrades support Zeekr’s claim that the 001 is evolving, not being phased out.

Why the Rumor Emerged

Several factors might have sparked or fueled the speculation:

1. Frequent refresh cycles in Chinese EV brands. In China’s fast innovation environment, brands often introduce mid-cycle facelifts or new sub-models, leading to confusion about discontinuations.

2. High expectations for successor models. Enthusiasts may be anticipating a "next-gen" Zeekr flagship, and speculated prematurely that 001 would vanish.

3. Leak hunting and social media momentum. Once a rumor catches on, it spreads rapidly, especially when official responses are delayed.

4. Upgrades within the same model line. Because the 2026 001 brings many technical advances, some may have misinterpreted them as signals of a new model entirely.

Implications for Owners and Buyers

• For current owners, Zeekr’s official statement brings reassurance: their vehicles are not becoming immediately obsolete or unsupported.

• For prospective buyers, the 2026 001 offers strong value — significant performance and tech upgrades without the risk that it will be discontinued next year.

• The rumor itself underscores how keenly the EV community watches for product strategy signals, especially with rapidly evolving electric vehicle lineups.

What Happens Next

• Zeekr may continue to deepen distinction via software-based feature updates, optional hardware packs, or limited-edition trims, rather than full model name changes.

• If Zeekr introduces a new flagship in the future, it may coexist with the 001 rather than replace it outright.

• Observers should watch for future Q&A releases, patent filings, or trademark registrations to detect shifts in Zeekr’s strategy.