Xpeng sets sights on UK after German market launch

Chinese EV maker Xpeng has launched in Germany as it looks to expand its European presence.

Announcing the launch of its German business, the brand confirmed that the UK would be among the next markets it enters, along with France and Italy. Xpeng already operates in Denmark, Norway, Sweden and the Netherlands, and is targeting a 3% market share for the new energy vehicle segment in Germany by the end of the year.

The brand will begin sales in May with its flagship G9 SUV and P7 sports saloon, both of which are already on sale in other European markets. The following months will see a third, as yet undisclosed, model join the range.

The G9 is a large SUV – bigger than a Mercedes EQE but smaller than the BMW iX – intended to challenge the electric models from premium brands like Mercedes, BMW and Audi. It offers between 308bhp and 543bhp and a range of between 308 and 345 miles depending on the battery and motor combination.

The P7 is a mid-sized saloon likely to challenge the Tesla Model 3, Hyundai Ioniq 6 BMW i4 and Polestar 2. Multiple motor and battery combinations offer between 272bhp and 467bhp and up to 358 miles of range.

Markus Schrick, managing director for Xpeng Germany, said: “The launch in Germany is a milestone moment for Xpeng and we are delighted to be able to take our place in one of the most competitive automotive markets in the world.

“We are excited to invite our new customers to test and experience the G9 and P7 models and see the quality of our vehicles for themselves.

“Through our dealer network with already established and EV experienced partners for both sales, services and parts, our models will be available to view and test drive at 24 retail locations across Germany.”