AW Rostamani Group (AWR), a leading conglomerate in the UAE, recently participated in this year’s Electric Vehicle Innovation Summit (EVIS). Held at ADNEC, Abu Dhabi, from May 20-22, the summit served as a platform for AWR to demonstrate its dedication to sustainable mobility through its premium electric vehicle brand, Zeekr – newly introduced in the UAE to cater to the rising demand for EVs in the country.
As part of its participation in EVIS, AWR launched its offer of a 0% interest rate with ADCB for up to five years applicable for retail and fleet on all Zeekr models and grades. Customers can also enjoy extended warranties of five years or 120,000 kilometers on the car body and eight years or 160,000 kilometers on the battery. The offer is available for a limited time, and subject to terms and conditions.
To further explore the world of EVs and gain more insights into Zeekr's distinctive design approach, we interviewed Stefan Sielaff, Zeekr Global Design Vice President.
How would you describe the global automotive design sector, and which players would you say are pioneers in the field?
Automotive design blends engineering, technology, and aesthetics. Successful brands recognize that it’s not solely about their excellence in performance, interiors, or bold designs – but rather, success comes from their ability to cater to the diverse preferences of their audience by carefully selecting and integrating desired design elements.
A current trend influencing vehicle design is the integration of generative AI technology. The adoption of generative AI aids in creating new intelligent designs, where vehicles are not only aesthetically pleasing but also smarter and more adaptive to the evolving needs of customers. In addition to AI, pioneers in the field are those excelling in aerodynamics, urban EV designs, and advanced safety systems.
Zeekr is a prime example of this as it embodies futuristic technology, a fearlessly distinctive design, and versatile performance, all the while providing premium experiences for customers. Furthermore, the strategic partnership with AWR in the UAE leverages their extensive expertise and legacy in the automotive industry to bring unmatched visibility to potential customers.
In your opinion, why is China considered a leader when it comes to automotive design and innovation?
China has emerged as a hub for automotive innovation, a result of decades of investments in research and development, alongside a commitment to meeting consumer demands for premium vehicles. This has been reinforced by government support, particularly in advancing infrastructure development. These efforts have positioned China as a force driving forward the advancement of the automotive industry on a global scale.
While Zeekr is manufactured in China, the design center in Sweden has a diverse workforce that reflects a blend of talent from across the globe. With 36% originating from Sweden, 10% from China, 9% from Germany, and 7% from France, our team embodies a dynamic and versatile culture. This blend of perspectives promotes creativity and innovation, ensuring that our designs resonate with a global audience.
What inspired the design of the 001 and the X?
The design journey of our 001 and X models began at our state-of-the-art R&D center in Sweden, where we pushed the boundaries of conventional design philosophy to create vehicles that display boldness and innovation. At Zeekr, we believe that a vehicle’s design should never lack soul and personality; instead, it should create a genuine connection with its owner. This principle is exactly what we wanted to present with Zeekr, driven by our vision to ensure Zeekr is synonymous with futuristic and technological advancements, shaping the future of EV experiences through innovation and creative design.
How do brands ensure that their designs remain unique, in comparison with other automotive companies?
Brands must leverage technology – This is particularly evident in EVs, where aspects like software, interfaces, and battery capabilities prove crucial. At Zeekr, our commitment to operating at the forefront of technology is unwavering. We understand that, with EVs, customers demand both long-range capabilities and exceptional performance, and we excel in providing just that.
Our models are designed with longer journeys in mind, aligning with the UAE government’s plans for the development of charging infrastructures. Take, for instance, our impressive charging capabilities. With a maximum of 400kW supercharging power and official 22kW wall boxes for home charging, Zeekr ensures convenience and efficiency. Our dedication to enhancing the charging experience doesn't end there – future plans include the introduction of CCS Type2 superchargers in strategic locations, further showcasing our commitment to accessibility.
When it comes to range, our vehicles set the standard. The Zeekr 001 boasts an impressive 620-kilometer range on a full charge, while the Zeekr X isn't far behind with a range of up to 440 kilometers. But it's not just about range; our Golden Battery technology stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to safety, performance, and sustainability.
More than just modes of transportation, Zeekr vehicles offer a holistic, premium experience driven by cutting-edge technology. Our lineup, which includes the 001 EV shooting brake and X compact SUV, challenges conventional notions of what EVs can be.
Furthermore, as a relatively new brand, Zeekr brings a fresh and modern perspective to the market, appealing to consumers seeking a contemporary alternative in the premium car segment. Our partnership with AW Rostamani Group in the UAE serves as a powerful pillar for the brand. Leveraging AWR's longstanding legacy in the region, we reinforce our values and future vision, showcasing our commitment to innovation, premium offerings, service excellence, and customer-centricity.
