Despite facing intense competition last year, Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Xpeng Motors achieved a notable delivery milestone of 140,000 vehicles. However, with competition expected to grow increasingly fierce, Xpeng needs to broaden its product range to further secure its foothold in the EV industry.
This is precisely what the automaker has sought to accomplish with the recent launch of the Xpeng X9, its maiden MPV model. To bolster its standing, the company is aiming to offer consumers a range of feature-packed vehicles.
Unveiled on January 1, 2024, the Xpeng X9 has been introduced with four distinct versions, priced between RMB 359,800–419,800 (USD 50,700–59,000). Xpeng initially contemplated positioning the X9 as a premium model, envisioning an enhanced profit performance. However, the cutthroat competition prompted a strategic shift.
The X9’s appeal lies in its cost-effectiveness, positioned as a mid- to large-sized all-electric MPV with a starting price of under RMB 360,000 (USD 50,700). Despite being competitively priced, it boasts features such as rear-wheel steering, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 chip, and an 800V architecture, placing it at the forefront in terms of handling, autonomous driving capabilities, intelligent cockpit features, and range.
The “Max” version of the X9 is further enhanced with dual laser radar integration, enabling intelligent navigation-assisted driving functions for high-speed scenarios and within city environments. Interestingly, the price differential between the regular long-range and Max version is RMB 20,000 (USD 2,800).
With a focus on passenger comfort, the X9 adopts a “2+2+3” seven-seat layout, providing options for second-row seats with or without a central aisle. Both options support ventilation, heating, and massage functions, with the version omitting a central aisle capable of featuring “zero gravity” seats. Additionally, the X9’s third-row seats feature electric folding, creating a completely flat space when stowed, seamlessly merging with the trunk space.
Range options for the X9 include 84.5 kWh and 101.5 kWh battery pack capacities, delivering ranges of 610, 640, and 702 kilometers across three versions.
As a testament to its appeal, Xpeng reported over 30,000 pre-orders for the X9 before its official launch, with orders surpassing 5,000 immediately after the launch. Scheduled for delivery this month, the X9 is poised to become a cornerstone in Xpeng Motors’ lineup.
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In tandem with the launch, Xpeng shared its plan to reduce the bill of materials (BOM) cost for autonomous driving by 50% this year, coupled with a 25% reduction in the overall power and hardware system costs of its vehicles. This, combined with the projected sales volume, alludes to the ambitions of Xpeng.
In alignment with the broader trend of intelligent driving, Xpeng’s XNGP intelligent assisted driving initiative is also gaining momentum, with coverage expanding to 243 cities. Additional features, such as automatic parking, are slated to roll out in the first half of the year, potentially enhancing its vehicles’ appeal in the rapidly evolving automotive landscape.