XPeng, the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, is making significant strides into the Swedish market with the imminent delivery of its flagship G9 SUV. The company’s founder, He Xiaopeng, is currently in Sweden to mark this pivotal expansion move.
Sweden, recognized as a rapidly growing hub for electric vehicles, has seen EVs capture a substantial 40% share of the local market as of August 2023. Until now, the electric roads of this Scandinavian nation have predominantly been traversed by vehicles from BYD, the lone Chinese brand boasting noteworthy sales figures in the region. XPeng is now set to enter the arena with the G9, aiming to make a compelling statement.
Previously, XPeng introduced its P7 sedan to the Swedish market, securing 25 new homes for the vehicle in the past month. Priced between 599,900 and 799,900 SEK (€50,567 – €67,424), the P7 marked XPeng’s inaugural offering in Sweden. The G9, priced between 699,900 and 829,900 SEK (€59,000 – €69,950), enters the Swedish market with aspirations to enhance the brand’s presence and performance.
XPeng has demonstrated its adaptability and growth by resuming its international expansion efforts, briefly halted in 2022. The company also has future plans to introduce the G6 SUV-coupe in Europe, further amplifying its sales volume.
Turning attention to the G9, this mid-size SUV boasts dimensions of 4,891 mm/1,937 mm/1,680 mm and a wheelbase of 2,998 mm. Recently updated for the 2024 model year in China, it features a new Smart Electric Platform Architecture (SEPA), which it shares with the XPeng G6. However, European customers will receive a G9 based on the E/E platform that XPeng sold to Volkswagen.
Underneath its exterior, the entry-level European G9 features a single electric motor on the rear axle, delivering 230 kW (313 hp) and 430 Nm of torque. It is powered by a 78.2 kWh LFP battery pack offering a range of 460 km. Additionally, there’s a rear-wheel-drive version equipped with a 98-kWh ternary (NMC) battery, promising a range of 570 km. For those seeking greater power, the G9 offers a 4WD version featuring two electric motors, generating 405 kW (551 hp) and 717 Nm, powered by the same 98 kWh battery. Notably, the G9 supports rapid 800V charging, achieving a 10-80% charge in just 20 minutes.
The first seven G9 SUVs are not just arriving in any Swedish driveway. He Xiaopeng himself is personally participating in the delivery process in Stockholm, congratulating the first owners. This hands-on approach by the founder underscores the significance of this launch for XPeng.
As XPeng establishes its presence in Sweden, the dynamics of the EV market remain dynamic. Initial sales figures can be unpredictable, as evidenced by the fluctuating sales of BYD’s Atto 3 in the region. XPeng’s G9 is embarking on an exciting journey in the Viking lands, and its success in securing a foothold in the market will be determined by time and market reception. Nevertheless, XPeng is charging ahead with determination.
