XPeng unveils AI-powered EV in Paris, announces European pricing

XPeng unveils AI-driven P7+ EV in Paris: Chinese automaker XPeng Motors showcased its new P7+ electric vehicle at the Paris Motor Show, emphasizing its AI capabilities and commitment to the European market.

Key features of the XPeng P7+:

• The P7+ is billed as the “world’s first AI car,” featuring an AI-centric design that builds upon XPeng’s flagship P7 sedan
• The vehicle utilizes a pure vision camera system called “AI Hawkeye Visual Solution,” eschewing LiDAR technology in favor of a camera-based approach similar to Tesla’s
• XPeng claims the new system delivers ADAS performance comparable to previous LiDAR-based systems while being more cost-effective
• The P7+ includes two 8M cameras in the front and rear, along with millimeter-wave and ultrasonic radars for enhanced perception in various driving conditions

Technology and performance highlights:

• Advanced ADAS comes standard on all models, with no additional fees or subscriptions required
• The vehicle’s AI-powered system aims to improve understanding of the surrounding environment, enhancing precision, range, and color resolution
• XPeng touts the P7+’s spacious interior, claiming it can accommodate 33 carry-on suitcases with rear seats folded down
• The P7+ features an 800V high-voltage SiC platform, enabling ultra-fast charging and energy consumption of 11.6 kWh/100 km

European market strategy:

• XPeng used the Paris Motor Show to reinforce its commitment to the European market, despite recent tariffs on Chinese-built EV imports
• The company currently sells three models in several European countries, including Norway, Denmark, Sweden, and others
• XPeng plans to expand into new European markets with the P7+ joining its existing lineup

Pricing and availability:

• Pre-sales for the P7+ have begun in China, with a starting price of RMB 209,800 (approximately $29,610)
• This pricing positions the P7+ RMB 22,100 ($3,120) below the starting price of a Tesla Model 3 in China
• Chinese customers can secure a pre-order with a deposit of RMB 99
• The official launch is expected next month, with the possibility of even lower pricing

Industry implications: XPeng’s unveiling of the P7+ represents a significant step in the company’s push to compete with established EV makers like Tesla on both technology and price.

• The focus on AI-driven features and competitive pricing could help XPeng gain market share in both China and Europe
• The company’s commitment to the European market, despite trade challenges, signals its ambition to become a global automaker
• XPeng’s approach to ADAS technology, moving away from LiDAR, aligns with industry trends and may lead to more affordable advanced safety features in EVs

As the EV market continues to evolve rapidly, XPeng’s P7+ launch demonstrates the increasing competitiveness of Chinese automakers in the global electric vehicle landscape. The combination of advanced AI technology, competitive pricing, and expanding market presence positions XPeng as a potentially disruptive force in the industry.