How to Pick Zeekr 001 or Tesla Model Y? 3 Key Expert Comparisons & Pitfall Tips

"With a $40,000 budget, should I choose the Zeekr 001 or Tesla Model Y for an electric SUV?" This is a top frequently asked question from our audience recently. On one side is a blockbuster model from China, winning countless fans with its shooting brake design and air suspension; on the other is the global best-selling electric vehicle, with deep-rooted brand influence and an intelligent driving system. Many consumers are torn: which one is more suitable for family use? Whose range is more reliable? Which has a higher residual value for long-term ownership?

As a senior automotive reviewer who has tested both models, I will break down the core differences in plain language today. Focusing on three key dimensions aligned with family needs—space practicality, power and range performance, and intelligent configurations plus residual value—along with targeted purchasing advice, friends with a $40,000 budget can make an informed decision after reading!

 

1. Space Comparison: Zeekr 001 Reigns Supreme in Practicality, Model Y Excels in Flexibility

Space is the top priority when choosing a family car. The two models have different positioning, leading to distinct space performances. The Zeekr 001 adopts a shooting brake design, with dimensions of 4970×1999×1560mm and a wheelbase of 3005mm—115mm longer than the Model Y’s 2890mm wheelbase. Test data shows that for a 178cm-tall passenger in the back seat, the Zeekr 001 offers two and a half fists of legroom and one fist of headroom; the Model Y provides two fists of legroom, but its sloping roof design leaves only three fingers of headroom, making it easy for taller passengers to feel cramped.





The difference in trunk capacity is significant: the Zeekr 001 has a standard volume of 502L, which expands to 1322L when the rear seats are folded, easily accommodating camping gear, a stroller, and two 28-inch suitcases; the Tesla Model Y’s standard volume is 302L, expanding to 1919L with folded seats. While its expandability is excellent, its standard loading capacity is inferior to the Zeekr 001. However, the Tesla Model Y has a key advantage—it supports split-folding rear seats and offers an optional seven-seat version, making it more flexible for multi-child families needing occasional extra space. The Zeekr 001 only comes in a five-seat configuration.



In terms of detailed configurations, the Zeekr 001 is more thoughtful: the rear seats are equipped with independent air conditioning, seat heating, and a center armrest with cup holders and storage compartments; the Tesla Model Y only has basic air vents in the rear, with harder seats that offer slightly less comfort during long rides. If you frequently travel with a full load and value riding comfort, the Zeekr 001’s spaciousness and comfort features are more advantageous; if you pursue flexible space layout, the Tesla Model Y is a better fit.


 

2. Power and Range: Zeekr 001 Leads in Performance, Tesla Model Y Offers Solid Range

Power output and range are core competitiveness for electric vehicles, and the two models take different paths. The Zeekr 001 focuses on performance, offering single-motor rear-wheel drive and dual-motor all-wheel drive versions. The dual-motor version accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.8 seconds, almost matching the Tesla Model Y Performance’s 3.7 seconds, delivering thrilling driving pleasure during start-ups. The single-motor version accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 7.9 seconds, more than enough for daily commuting, and comes standard with air suspension, providing a smoother ride over speed bumps than the Model Y.





In terms of range performance, the Tesla Model Y is more stable: the 2025 Tesla Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive has a CLTC range of 688km, and the All-Wheel Drive version has 650km. Real-world tests show it can travel about 550km in urban commutes, with a highway range retention rate of 75%; the Zeekr 001 Single-Motor version has a CLTC range of 702km, and the Dual-Motor version has 616km—slightly better on paper, but its real-world highway range retention rate is around 70%, 30-50km less than the Tesla Model Y. Charging speeds are similar, with both supporting fast charging; it takes about 30 minutes to charge from 30% to 80%.



The Model Y has an edge in charging convenience: Tesla’s Supercharger network covers many countries, easily accessible even in third-tier cities and sinking markets; the Zeekr 001 relies on Zeekr Energy and CATL’s charging networks, which are continuously expanding but still less convenient than Tesla’s in some sinking markets. If you often travel long distances, the Model Y’s charging advantage is more obvious; if you mainly use it for urban commuting, the Zeekr 001’s performance and range are fully sufficient.


 

3. Intelligent Configurations and Residual Value: Model Y Leads in ADAS, Zeekr 001 Boasts Rich Configurations

Intelligent configurations and residual value are key factors easily overlooked when buying a car. In terms of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), Tesla has a distinct advantage: the Model Y comes standard with basic FSD, supporting ACC adaptive cruise and lane-keeping functions. With the optional full FSD package, it can achieve advanced features like highway navigation and automatic parking. After years of technological iteration, the system offers high stability in response speed and recognition accuracy. The Zeekr 001 is equipped with ZEEKR OS 5.0, with comprehensive ADAS functions, but its decision-making logic in complex road conditions is slightly inferior to FSD.



The Zeekr 001 excels in infotainment and configurations: it features a dual-screen setup (15.4-inch central control screen + 10.25-inch instrument cluster), supporting voice interaction and wireless CarPlay, along with standard Harman Kardon sound system, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof; the Tesla Model Y’s infotainment system is smooth but only has a 15-inch single screen, with a regular-brand sound system and a minimalist interior design, offering a less intense tech atmosphere than the Zeekr 001.



In terms of residual value, the Model Y is more advantageous: data shows the Model Y has a 3-year residual value rate of 65%, while the Zeekr 001 is about 58%. Both are among the higher levels for electric vehicles, but the Model Y’s brand premium makes it more resistant to depreciation.

 

Final Purchasing Advice: Match Your Core Needs

Choose the Zeekr 001 if: You pursue a stylish appearance, spacious interior, and strong performance; mainly use it for urban commuting; and value rich configurations and a comfortable driving experience—ideal for family users.



Choose the Model Y if: You prioritize brand strength, intelligent driving systems, and charging convenience; often travel long distances or intercity; and prefer a minimalist interior and flexible space layout.



In fact, both the Zeekr 001 and Tesla Model Y are benchmark products in the $40,000 electric SUV segment—there is no absolute superior or inferior choice. The key is to match your personal needs. Which model do you prefer?

FAQ：

• Q: What are the differences in exterior styling between the Zeekr 001 and Tesla Model Y?
  A: The Zeekr 001 features a shooting-brake coupe design with smooth, stretched lines and a wide stance that gives it a strong presence and a more distinctive look. The Tesla Model Y follows a clean, minimalist sporty style with a crisp fastback profile that suits various scenarios and blends well with different preferences.
   

• Q: Which one is more suitable for family use?
  A: If you often travel fully loaded and value seating comfort, the Zeekr 001’s spacious cabin, rear independent air conditioning, and heated seats are more considerate. For multi-child families or those needing flexible layout or occasional extra space, the Tesla Model Y’s fold-flat seats and optional seven-seat version are more practical.
   

• Q: Which one is more reliable for long-distance travel?
  A: The Model Y is the better choice. Tesla’s Supercharger network is widespread, easily accessible even in lower-tier or suburban markets, making charging more convenient. Its highway range retention is higher, reducing long-distance range anxiety. The Zeekr 001 is more suited for urban commuting.
   

• Q: Is there a big difference in interior quality between the two?
  A: Yes. The Zeekr 001 uses dual screens, Harman Kardon audio, and ambient lighting, offering a high-tech and premium feel. The Model Y uses a single-screen minimalist layout focused on practicality, fitting users who prefer an ultra-simple style.
   

• Q: Which car has a higher long-term resale value?
  A: The Tesla Model Y holds value better, with a 3-year retention rate of around 65%. The Zeekr 001 is about 58%. Both are strong for EVs, but Tesla’s brand premium makes long-term ownership more cost-effective.
   

• Q: If I prioritize performance and features, should I pick the Zeekr 001 or the Model Y?
  A: Choose the Zeekr 001. Its dual-motor version accelerates from 0–100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and comes standard with air suspension. The interior also offers dual screens, wireless CarPlay, and Harman Kardon audio, giving it richer features and higher perceived quality.
   

• Q: Which model has more stable highway range performance?
  A: The Tesla Model Y performs more consistently on highways, with a 75% range retention rate—about 30–50 km more than the Zeekr 001 (around 70%). Combined with the widespread Supercharger network, it provides easier charging and less range anxiety during high-speed travel.
   

• Q: Are there major differences in their driver-assistance systems?
  A: Yes. Tesla’s FSD has undergone years of refinement and is more stable in complex conditions, delivering better decision-making, response speed, and recognition accuracy. The Zeekr 001 has complete features but overall still trails behind FSD.
   

• Q: With a $40,000 budget, are there configuration differences between the two?
  A: Not much. Key versions fall within the range. The Zeekr 001 can be purchased in the single-motor long-range version with standard air suspension, dual screens, and heated seats. The Model Y’s rear-wheel-drive version includes basic FSD and flexible space layout, allowing buyers to choose based on core needs.
   

• Q: Which model has lower daily operating costs (charging and maintenance)?
  A: Overall, they are similar. Charging cost depends on local electricity prices, and both offer comparable fast-charging efficiency. For maintenance, EVs have no engine servicing. Tesla’s mature service network makes minor maintenance easier, while the Zeekr 001 offers stronger warranty benefits (based on local dealerships).
   

• Q: If I value tech features, which weaknesses should I be prepared to accept?
  A: Choosing the Zeekr 001 means accepting driver-assistance performance slightly inferior to the Model Y, with less stable decision-making in complex conditions. Choosing the Model Y means compromising on feature richness, as it lacks dual screens and Harman Kardon audio, with a more minimalist interior. Select based on your key priorities.