Written by Cláudio Afonso | LinkedIn | X
In recent weeks, Huawei-backed EV startup Avatr and Geely-backed Zeekr announced plans to soon debut their first non-fully electric models. Also, the Stellantis-backed Leapmotor unveiled it will soon introduce the first extended-range model to its portfolio.
Asked about the possibility of launching plug-in hybrid or extended-range electric vehicles, XPeng co-president Brian Gu said the company is “studying very closely” the options.
The Guangzhou-headquartered brand, which has just celebrated its 10th anniversary, has always developed battery electric vehicles (BEV).
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“We’re recognising that there’s definitely more attention [turned to] hybrids and extended range [options],” XPeng’s honorary vice chairman of the board of directors said before warning that it will take time to reach a conclusion. Following the decision, the markets will be informed, the executive said.
Regarding charging infrastructure, Brian Gu noted the challenges of expanding EV charging infrastructure, admitting that the company cannot build charging networks in all markets.
Throughout Europe, XPeng cars currently have access to 400,000 charging points, and the company plans to double that number over the next 12 to 24 months by partnering with existing charging operators.
Avatr is set to unveil three extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) models later this year, which will provide a longer electric range than most plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and use a gasoline engine only to extend the range after the battery is emptied.
Over the next 24 months, XPeng will release 9 new models — including revamped versions of its current vehicles — following the Mona M03 debut earlier this week. The coupe, which starts at $16,800, started being delivered earlier today at the Chengdu Auto Show.
Written by Cláudio Afonso | LinkedIn | X
