Xpeng X9 EREV Minivan with 1,600 km Range Set for October Debut

Xpeng Motors is poised to make waves in the electric vehicle market with the upcoming debut of its X9 EREV minivan. Set to launch in China this October, the vehicle promises an impressive mixed range of 1,600 kilometers under the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC) conditions. With a combination of advanced engineering and strategic planning, Xpeng aims to cater to a growing demand for versatile and efficient electric vehicles.

The Xpeng X9 EREV, which stands for Extended Range Electric Vehicle, is crafted to address the persistent issue of range anxiety that often accompanies electric vehicles. It achieves this through a sophisticated plug-in hybrid powertrain where the internal combustion engine (ICE) operates solely as a generator, providing power to the battery and electric motors without direct connection to the wheels. This innovative approach not only extends the vehicle's range significantly but also reduces the overall cost compared to fully battery-electric vehicles (BEVs). The minivan's core specifications, including a substantial 63.3 kWh battery, were revealed when Xpeng applied for a sales license in China on August 8. The battery supports a notable 450 km of BEV range and is complemented by an 800V high-voltage system allowing for rapid 5C charging capabilities.

Beyond its technical specifications, the Xpeng X9 EREV represents a strategic move by Xpeng to increase its market share in the electric vehicle sector. The vehicle is built on the new SEPA 3.0 platform, underscoring Xpeng's commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into its products. The minivan's dimensions—5316 mm in length, 1988 mm in width, and 1785 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3160 mm—reflect its design as a spacious multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) suited for families and group travel. Despite its size, the minivan maintains a manageable curb weight of 2,750 kg, ensuring that it remains efficient and easy to handle.

The technical prowess of the X9 EREV is matched by its performance. Under the hood lies a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine delivering a peak power output of 110 kW, or 148 horsepower. This engine works in unison with a CALB-manufactured lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, renowned for its safety and stability. The combined system facilitates a remarkable electric range while enabling the vehicle to achieve its maximum range of 1,600 km on a full tank, making long-distance travel a viable option for owners.

Xpeng's launch of the X9 EREV is part of a broader strategy to diversify its offerings and boost sales. The all-electric variant of the X9, launched in January 2024, has already seen sales of 32,765 units, paving the way for the EREV model. By offering a hybrid option, Xpeng is reaching out to consumers who desire the benefits of electric driving without the constraints of limited charging infrastructure. This strategic positioning is expected to enhance the model's appeal and increase its market penetration, particularly in regions where charging infrastructure is still developing.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Xpeng's initiatives reflect its forward-thinking approach and its ambition to redefine the landscape of electric vehicles. The X9 EREV's debut is not merely about introducing a new model; it is about setting a precedent in the EV market, emphasizing sustainability, innovation, and consumer-centric design. By marrying advanced technology with practical applications, Xpeng is not just meeting current market demands but is also poised to influence future trends in electric mobility.