The new XPeng X9, a seven-seater electric multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), is about to launch on the British market, promising a level of luxury and technology comparable to high-end models, but at a significantly more affordable price. Starting at £74,990, the Chinese MPV can have up to 382 miles of range, ultra-fast charging and costs almost £25,000 less than its main competitor, the Lexus LM hybrid.
800-volt electrical architecture boosts performance and recharging
Three configurations of the XPeng X9 will be available to consumers: Standard Range, Long Range and All-Wheel Drive (AWD). All versions use an all-electric powertrain built on XPeng’s advanced 800-volt architecture. This cutting-edge technology allows the car’s battery to be recharged from 10% to 80% in an impressive 12 minutes, a competitive differentiator that optimizes energy efficiency and reduces downtime.
Base models come equipped with a front electric motor that delivers 316bhp of power and 450Nm of torque. For the Asian market, identical cars have an 84.5kWh LFP (Standard Range) or 101.5kWh (Long Range) NMC battery, with confirmed ranges of 332 and 382 miles, respectively. The AWD version, with two engines, increases power to 496bhp, allowing the almost 5.3 meter long MPV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds, with a range of 360 miles.
The X9’s challenge to the luxury segment with an innovative proposal
Dubbed by the brand as the “starship of tomorrow”, the seven-seater XPeng X9 aims to compete with a diverse range of luxury electric vehicles. Among its targets are imposing SUVs, such as the Hyundai Ioniq 9, and executive limousines, such as the BMW i7. However, its most direct rival in terms of size and shape is the Lexus LM, a hybrid that starts at £97,645 in the United Kingdom, which positions the XPeng X9, even in its most complete All-Wheel Drive version at £85,000, as a very advantageous option.
Although XPeng has not released a detailed equipment list, the company has confirmed that the MPV will be offered in four exterior color options (Arctic White, Silver Frost, Midnight Black and Graphite Grey) and two interior themes – Meteorite Black leather, with the Moon Shadow Coffee option.
Design and comfort features that surprise in the interior
The X9’s design, with its sharp, futuristic lines, incorporates 17 distinct aerodynamic features, resulting in a drag coefficient of just 0.27Cd. This airflow efficiency directly contributes to long driving ranges of over 330 miles.
- Unexpected agility:For a vehicle of its size, the X9 surprises with a rear-wheel steering system that allows a turning circle of 10.8 meters, the same as a MINI Cooper. This gives exceptional maneuverability for an MPV measuring almost 5.3 meters.
- Superior Comfort:The interior is equipped with adaptive air suspension and reclining seats with “zero gravity” function, ensuring an extremely comfortable travel experience.
- Inflight entertainment:A 23-speaker sound system and a 21.4-inch screen for rear passengers that folds down from the roof, similar to the Theater Screen feature available on the BMW i7, elevates the entertainment.
- Load Versatility:The last row seats can be electrically retracted with a single button, expanding luggage capacity to an impressive 2,554 liters, enough for 29 carry-on suitcases, according to XPeng.
XPeng strategy for the expanding UK market
The X9 is the second XPeng model to arrive in the UK, following the G6 mid-size SUV, launched more than 18 months ago as a direct competitor to the Tesla Model Y. The Chinese brand, which has invested heavily in research and development, plans to add more models to its range in 2026. The arrival of these vehicles reinforces XPeng’s strategy of establishing a strong presence in the European automotive market, offering advanced technology and luxury at competitive prices.
The company’s website already lists the L03, a more affordable model aimed at the C-segment SUV market, as “coming soon.” Furthermore, there are expectations for the launch of the XPeng P7+ electric sedan, which will challenge cars like the Tesla Model 3, BYD Seal and Volkswagen ID.7. The 800-volt Smart Electric Platform Architecture 2.0 platform, which underpins the G6 and X9, will also underpin the P7+, bringing features such as artificial intelligence, Level 2.5 autonomous driving capabilities and XPilot driver assistance, safety and parking systems.
