Zeekr Mix: Reimagine the Car
Every automaker in this evolving era of electric vehicles appears to be experimenting with ways to transform the car into an extension of your essential living spaces. The trend moves away from the car as a simple means of transportation and toward the car as a social venue or meeting area. This concept is exemplified in the Zeekr Mix, a China-exclusive ultra-luxury electric van that garnered significant attention at CES.
This unique vehicle isn’t self-driving, despite sharing a platform with Waymo’s self-driving Zeekr collaboration. The Zeekr Mix offers a glimpse into an evolving car culture that prioritizes comfort and versatility. What does a car look like when it also functions as a third space – beyond home and office? And what does it feel like to be in a car that prioritizes experiences other than driving?
I had the chance to experience the Zeekr Mix during a recent trip to Shanghai, and now share my view of this innovative vehicle.
What is the Zeekr Mix?
Zeekr, a premium brand under the Geely umbrella, is responsible for much of Geely’s electric car development. Using the SEA platform, the Zeekr Mix leverages the foundation of the Zeekr RT self-driving vehicle. Zeekr adapted this platform, SEA-M, for the Mix, with modifications to enhance interior space and functionality. A key feature is the steer-by-wire system, which is not available on other SEA variants. The Mix is, in essence, the consumer version of a robotaxi.
This car showcases where automotive design is heading. Zeekr’s engineers took special care to make the Mix more than just a car with a steering wheel and pedals. The developers aimed for a vehicle that would serve as a third space for families and individuals, designed for a variety of lifestyle activities.
Features include a door-integrated B-pillar and a walk-through design, but the Mix has an elevated step-in height for more of an SUV feel. The front seats swivel 270 degrees to face the rear. A center console is on a motorized track that can be positioned between the front and rear seats. The console includes a wireless phone charger, an armrest, storage, and an optional refrigerator. Airplane-style tables can be mounted to turn the interior into a rolling lounge.
To activate the lounge mode, you need to remove any accessories from the center console. Then you open all doors, select a preferred configuration on the central touchscreen, and allow the seats and console to adjust position. The process takes about two minutes, and it’s essential to remove all attachments to avoid any interruptions.
It’s a unique concept, similar to a VW Westfalia Camper or a 1960s Chrysler Imperial, but the Mix was built this way from the beginning. The extra wide door opening and flat floor minimize the traditional car-like qualities and improve the vehicle’s lounge-like feel.
Driving the Zeekr Mix
Driving the Zeekr Mix provides a very different experience. The ergonomics and design make the interior feel spacious, almost like sitting in the back of a minivan. The short nose and long dash can be challenging for some drivers.
The Mix’s adaptive suspension handles the car’s weight well, and the steer-by-wire system is well-executed for the type of vehicle it is. The 415-horsepower motor delivers accessible acceleration. The car has a 0-62 mph time of about 6.8 seconds.
The Mix’s economy is adequate, about 2.73 miles per kWh in my test. That’s okay for city driving. The suspension system is well resolved, contributing to a softer ride.
What Does the Zeekr Mix Mean For Us?
For now, the Zeekr Mix is primarily a car for China. While Zeekr has sales in Europe, the Mix is not available there and may never be sold in the U.S.
But the Mix demonstrates innovative thinking in China’s automotive sector. The Mix feels like a specific product designed to answer a very particular set of Chinese consumer needs. This van is made for those seeking a third place in the form of their cars.
Zeekr appears to have given much thought on how to use the car more strategically, rather than just adding extra features. The idea of using a car to serve as an extension of home, office, or vacation spot will grow. The Zeekr Mix demonstrates how this can be done.
