At the 2026 Paris International Motor Show, Xpeng officially launched its flagship SUV, the G9L, for the global market, with European orders opening immediately. The French market starting price is €74,990, according to Gasgoo (盖世汽车). The launch marks a significant step in Xpeng's European expansion, which already includes local manufacturing and technology partnerships.
Flagship specs and localised features
The G9L measures over 5.1 metres in length with a wheelbase of 3.1 metres. It rides on an 800V high-voltage platform with 5C ultra-fast charging, capable of charging from 10% to 80% in as little as 11.7 minutes. The SUV also comes with dual-chamber air suspension, active rear-wheel steering, and intelligent parking assistance. For the European market, Xpeng has integrated localised applications such as Google Maps and Google Play into the infotainment system.
Xpeng's smart driving technology was a key focus at the show. The company and Tesla were the only two automakers participating in the official Autonomous Lab public road experience at the event. Xpeng's NGP (Navigation Guided Pilot) was demonstrated to the public on European roads for the first time on a large scale. However, the public demonstration does not mean the feature has received full regulatory approval in Europe; commercial rollout will still require compliance with local regulations and certification.
Local production and partnerships
On the manufacturing side, Xpeng has been working with Magna since 2025 on localised European production. The G9L has completed its first trial production at Magna's Graz plant in Austria and is planned to be the fourth model produced there. During the motor show, Xpeng also signed a strategic framework agreement with Michelin and introduced the "XPENG AI ENGINEERING" initiative, aiming to open its vehicle platform, modular technologies, and toolchains to global partners.
From vehicle sales and local manufacturing to smart driving technology licensing, Xpeng is broadening its European business footprint. Yet, facing competition from established European brands, as well as challenges in smart driving approval and local operations, whether the technology showcase translates into actual sales and sustained profitability remains to be seen.
