In October 2024, a visit to the Geely Chinese group factory, located on the outskirts of Shanghai, revealed a milestone in the global automotive industry. The factory, which produces many electric vehicles (EVs), showcased China’s significant strides in electric car manufacturing. With advanced technology and automation, the facility epitomizes China’s rise as a leader in automotive innovation.

China’s Electric Vehicle Dominance

China has become a global leader in the electric vehicle sector, with a particular focus on innovation and sustainability. The Zeekr factory in Ningbo, about two hours from Shanghai, exemplifies this leadership. Zeekr, a part of the Geely group, is known for its cutting-edge electric vehicles, ranging from luxury models to mass-market offerings. The Geely group, which owns brands like Lotus, Volvo, Polestar, and Smart, has been pushing the boundaries of EV technology with models like the Zeekr 001, which boasts a 1,000-kilometer range and a recharge time of just 10 minutes, thanks to the “Golden Battery” developed by Geely.

The cars of the brands are sold in Europe (not yet in the U.S.), and that it is in Zeekr that we owe the first electric car to exceed 1,000 km of autonomy, there the Zeekr 001
ZEEKR

Automotive Innovation and Automation

Following a visit to the Xiaomi automobile factory in Beijing, I found the Zeekr factory equally impressive in terms of automation. The Zeekr 009, a luxury electric car, was on display, exhibiting seats comparable to business class in an airplane. We experienced the Zeekr 009’s driving capabilities in Shanghai, appreciating its comfortable ride, powered by a 109 kWh battery. Noting the sophistication of its road behavior, courtesy of pneumatic suspensions, it was evident that Zeekr prioritizes both comfort and performance. The Zeekr 009’s battery, when charged at 140 kWh, can achieve a Theorical CLTC of 900 kilometers, showcasing advancements like the 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 3.9 seconds.

The Manufacturing Process

The die-casting process, notably used by Tesla, Xiaomi, and now Zeekr, is a revolutionary method that involves injecting molten metal into a large mold. This technique, known as “gigacasting,” significantly reduces the number of parts needed, from 70 to 80 fewer parts, depending on the car model. The advantages include reduced costs, lighter parts, potentially lower noise levels, fewer welds, and cars with increased longevity. However, gigacasting has its drawbacks: the cost may be higher in the event of an accident, necessitating the replacement of entire parts rather than individual components. Zeekr addresses this by incorporating a deformation zone in the rear, before the single piece, to mitigate these risks. Safety is also enhanced by this method, ensuring fewer welds on the vehicle to increase mechanical durability

Production Line

The Zeekr factory uses a highly automated production line, integrating state-of-the-art technology and robots. The factory’s production line is unique in handling four different models: the Zeekr 001, Zeekr 009, Robocar 01, and the Polestar 4, all on the same line, optimized this way to maximize efficiency. The robots, equipped with sensors, navigate the factory, ensuring smooth transitions between different steps, notable automation we see in Tesla production lines. Additionally, the machines adapt in real-time to the specific needs of each car model, demonstrating exceptional flexibility and efficiency. A central theme at this assembly line is Dinamism in запображение Б.), ensuring precision and consistency in the manufacturing process. The worker’s operating pace Mondays to Fridays was 8 hours a day, with breaks to ensure productivity. The workers move cars forward on a treadmill, conducting final inspections under bright lights. Prior to exiting the factory, each car undergoes a rigorous test drive on a makeshift “4×4” path to ensure all screws and bolts.

A Sneak Peek into the Future

U.S. readers are also adapting to these electric cars in cleanup efforts intending new applications and models as shown by Zeekr. This highlights America’s readiness for integration, prompting higher consumption besides their intrinsic characteristics providing insights that have fascinated stakeholders with its implications.

In Also to be considered:, the Zeekr factory offers a glimpse into the future of electric vehicle manufacturing. With its advanced technology, high levels of automation, and innovative manufacturing processes, it serves as a model for other manufacturers worldwide. As the U.S. market continues to embrace electric vehicles, it is clear that companies like Zeekr will play a significant role in shaping the future of mobility, underscoring the ever-growing importance of sustainable and efficient transportation solutions. This transformation signifies not just technological advancements but also a global shift towards environmentally friendly transportation, influencing industrial and consumer behavior alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What role does the Zeekr factory play in China’s electric vehicle (EV) revolution?

The Zeekr factory,located in Ningbo near Shanghai,is a pinnacle of China’s advancements in EV manufacturing. As part of Geely’s expansive efforts, the factory is a testament to China’s leadership in the electric vehicle sector, focusing on innovation and sustainability. China’s strategic emphasis on EV technology is evident through the Zeekr factory’s production capabilities, setting it apart as a model of modern automotive manufacturing.

Q2: What are some of the notable features of the Zeekr 001 that highlight technological innovation?

The Zeekr 001 is a standout model due to its remarkable 1,000-kilometer range and a rapid recharge time of just 10 minutes. These features are credited to the “Golden Battery,” a pioneering development by Geely.This technological leap demonstrates the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of EV technology. The Zeekr 001 has already achieved significant sales within Europe and is indicative of Zeekr’s global ambitions in the EV market. [1]

Q3: how does the Zeekr factory exemplify advanced automation in EV production?

The Zeekr factory employs cutting-edge automation technologies, with state-of-the-art digital design, process simulation, and operations. The facility is recognized as a 5G fully connected factory, which sets a new benchmark for customizable, high-volume EV production. The integration of robots and sensor-equipped machinery allows for seamless production of multiple models on the same line, substantially enhancing efficiency. [2], [3]

Q4: what innovative manufacturing processes are utilized at the Zeekr factory?

The Zeekr factory uses the “gigacasting” process, a revolutionary technique in automotive manufacturing that reduces the need for numerous parts, thereby lowering production costs and weight. This method, employed by other major manufacturers like tesla and Xiaomi as well, enhances vehicle longevity and decreases noise, though it does require strategic design elements such as a deformation zone to address safety concerns in case of accidents. [3]

Q5: How is the production line of the Zeekr factory designed for efficiency and adaptability?

The factory boasts a unique production line capable of handling four different models (Zeekr 001, Zeekr 009, Robocar 01, and Polestar 4) simultaneously. The advanced robotic systems and adaptive machinery demonstrate a high level of flexibility, ensuring that each vehicle’s specific assembly needs are met efficiently. The final production process involves rigorous testing to ensure quality and durability, emphasizing the precision in manufacturing.[3]

Q6: What future trends in electric vehicle manufacturing does the Zeekr factory indicate?

the Zeekr factory’s operations reflect significant trends toward increased automation, sustainability, and technological integration. As other countries, including the U.S., begin to embrace these technologies, the factory’s innovations serve as a blueprint for future automotive manufacturing. The shift towards electric vehicles underscores a broader movement towards sustainable and efficient transportation solutions globally.