A Zeekr 9X owner from China was left without access to key smart features for over 30 hours after crossing into Kazakhstan, highlighting the challenges of cross-border travel with connected vehicles. The incident has drawn attention to Zeekr’s remote security protocols and their impact on user experience.
Zeekr 9X Owner Experiences Remote Lockout
Mr. Liu, who purchased his Zeekr 9X SUV for approximately $73,730 (~AUD 105,444) just six months ago, began a cross-continental trip to Europe on July 8. Upon entering Kazakhstan on July 16, his vehicle’s infotainment system restricted access to navigation, the storage compartment, and the electronic fuel filler door for more than 30 hours.
The lockout left Mr. Liu unable to use several smart features, causing significant inconvenience during his journey.
Zeekr’s Security Protocols and Company Response
On July 23, a Zeekr spokesperson explained to National Business Daily: “Upon verification, the vehicle’s location was detected in an overseas region, which triggered the built-in security protection mechanism.” The company stated that the system issues pop-up warnings, followed by a persistent screen prompt if the vehicle remains in a foreign location.
Zeekr described these restrictions as a standard anti-theft and loss-prevention measure, intended to protect owner assets and comply with international regulations and import/export management. The company clarified that core driving systems, such as the powertrain and braking, are not affected by the lockout.
Zeekr also noted that the charging port can be opened by direct pressure, and the fuel filler door can be unlocked by long-pressing the hazard light button inside the cabin for five seconds, allowing some functions to be accessed even if the infotainment system is restricted.
Unlocking and Ongoing Support
Once a user verifies that their cross-border travel is legitimate, Zeekr can lift the restrictions using an authorisation code. However, the company cautioned that temporary unlocking is limited to a single region, and further travel across additional countries may result in renewed restrictions.
Zeekr stated: “We are maintaining close communication with the user to actively assist with follow-up matters and will continue to optimise our security strategies based on user feedback to improve the cross-border travel experience.”
Zeekr’s Recent Sales Performance
On July 1, Zeekr reported delivering 35,169 vehicles in June, marking a 111% year-on-year increase. From January to June, the company delivered a total of 178,370 vehicles, representing a 97% increase compared to the same period last year.
Why this matters
This incident highlights the complexities of security protocols in modern connected vehicles, especially when owners travel internationally. While anti-theft measures are designed to protect both the vehicle and the manufacturer, they can also create unexpected challenges for users who cross borders.
Zeekr’s response and ongoing communication with the affected owner underscore the importance of balancing security with user convenience, particularly as more drivers undertake cross-border journeys in connected cars.
What this means for buyers
Prospective Zeekr owners planning international travel should be aware of potential restrictions on smart features when crossing borders. It is advisable to consult with the manufacturer or dealership before embarking on cross-country trips to understand any limitations and the process for verifying travel.
Buyers should also familiarize themselves with manual override procedures for essential functions in case remote lockouts occur during travel.
Key Specs
- Model: Zeekr 9X
- Owner Purchase Price: $73,730 (~AUD 105,444)
- Incident Date: July 16, 2026
- Lockout Duration: Over 30 hours
- Features Affected: Navigation, storage compartment, electronic fuel filler door
- June 2026 Deliveries: 35,169 units
- January–June 2026 Deliveries: 178,370 units
- Year-on-Year Delivery Growth (June): 111%
Source
Images sourced from: carnewschina.com, motorwatt.com
