Xpeng is reportedly opting to exclude LiDAR technology from its forthcoming premium sedan model, a departure from its earlier strategy of integrating the component into its vehicles.
According to a report from local media outlet HiEV, Xpeng is set to introduce a new sedan, codenamed F57, in the second half of the year, positioned above its current flagship sedan, the P7 series.
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The F57’s smart driving system will forego LiDAR in favor of a pure vision solution, utilizing 3D millimeter-wave radars, the report stated, citing sources familiar with the matter.
With Xpeng facing increased competition and seeking to bolster its position in the sedan market, the decision to expedite the launch of the F57 underscores the company’s strategic priorities, the report highlighted.
Xpeng initially gained attention for being the first to incorporate LiDAR technology into its production model with the launch of the P5 sedan in September 2021. However, recent models including the P7 facelift, P7i, and newer releases like the G6, G9, and X9, have also featured LiDAR technology.
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While recent images circulating on social media suggest that the F57 model may still include LiDAR, sources within Xpeng indicate a leaning towards omitting the component in production, the report revealed.
The decision to remove LiDAR from the F57 aligns with earlier proposals within Xpeng’s smart driving team and reflects a shift towards alternative technologies, the report added.
Despite the exclusion of LiDAR in the F57, Xpeng’s future models are expected to continue utilizing the technology, particularly for features such as valet parking, according to the report.
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Following the launch of the F57, Xpeng’s smart driving initiatives will be spearheaded by company executives He Xiaopeng and Li Liyun, the report noted. Mr. He serves as Xpeng’s chairman and CEO, while Li succeeded Wu Xinzhou, Xpeng’s former head of autonomous driving technology.
