Zeekr, a luxury electric vehicle brand under the umbrella of the Chinese automotive giant Geely, is considering a launch in New Zealand. However, the specifics of this launch are still uncertain. Speculation suggests that Giltrap Group may be granted initial distribution rights, as they currently represent Geely’s globally recognized brands such as Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus. Nonetheless, the brand has not yet confirmed whether this arrangement will indeed be the case.
Giltrap Group holds sole representation for Polestar and Lotus, while Volvo NZ operates as a joint venture with Fairhall Family Trust. The extent to which the group can automatically secure rights to all Geely products has remained ambiguous.
In a concise statement, a spokesperson from Giltrap Group neither confirmed nor denied the potential for a partnership with Zeekr.
“Giltrap Group is honored to represent 18 of the world’s foremost automotive brands,” the spokesperson commented. “Our primary objective is to serve the New Zealand market optimally, and in pursuit of this goal, we carefully evaluate opportunities to represent new brands.”
“Giltrap Group maintains a strong and favorable partnership with Geely Group, particularly through our representation of Volvo, Lotus, and Polestar.”
The intention of Zeekr to enter the New Zealand market was recently disclosed by the electric vehicle-focused publication EVs and Beyond. According to the outlet, an unnamed spokesperson from Zeekr stated that the brand plans to launch in New Zealand simultaneously with its debut in Australia. This action is expected to take place later this year, with the brand actively seeking recruits in Australia for roles that will encompass both markets.
