XPENG has just launched the P7+ in China, introducing what they call the “world’s first AI-defined vehicle.” The new P7+ elevates the original P7 sedan with advanced artificial intelligence that boosts autonomous driving capabilities, aiming to make it a major contender in the EV market. This AI-centric vehicle marks XPENG‘s commitment to autonomous mobility, emphasizing smart solutions without LiDAR-based sensors—an unusual choice in the industry.

Xpeng'S New P7+ Electric Sedan: The World'S First Ai-Defined Ev Launches In China

AI and Autonomous Driving Features

XPENG’s AI Hawkeye Visual Solution replaces traditional LiDAR with a system combining two 8-megapixel cameras (front and rear), millimeter-wave radars, and ultrasonic radars. This unique setup offers impressive perception capabilities that, XPENG claims, rival those of LiDAR-based systems.

The P7+ includes door-to-door and parking space-to-parking space intelligent driving, meaning it can autonomously handle navigation from the start to the end of a journey. It also leverages AI across multiple systems, from Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) to power management and thermal control, enhancing the vehicle’s responsiveness to its environment.

In a move that signals XPENG’s focus on long-term innovation, ADAS features come standard on all trims and will receive regular improvements through over-the-air (OTA) updates.

Design and Specifications

XPENG has combined style and functionality in the P7+ with a fastback sedan design that boasts an ultra-low drag coefficient of 0.206. This EV achieves impressive energy efficiency, consuming 11.6 kWh/100 km. Built on an 800V high-voltage silicon carbide (SiC) platform, the P7+ supports ultra-fast charging, a feature increasingly expected in high-performance EVs.

The interior is also spacious, with enough room to fit 33 carry-on suitcases when the rear seats are folded. The total cargo space reaches 2,221 liters, a size more typical of larger SUVs than sedans.

Availability and Pricing

The XPENG P7+ is set for launch in China on November 7, 2024, with initial deliveries expected to start later in November. Although official pricing details are pending, estimates place the starting price at around 300,000 RMB (approximately $42,370 USD).

XPENG’s European Expansion

With the launch of the P7+, XPENG reaffirms its push into the European market, where it’s already established a foothold in countries like Norway, Germany, and France. Despite recent tariffs on Chinese EV imports in Europe, XPENG shows no signs of retreating, signaling a serious commitment to competing with established European automakers.

The XPENG P7+ was introduced earlier this year at the Paris Motor Show 2024.

EVXL’s Take

The P7+ represents a bold vision for AI-integrated driving, and it’s exciting to see XPENG stepping up to innovate on the global stage. With this sedan, XPENG is making strides toward a future where AI isn’t just a perk but a fundamental part of the driving experience. As other automakers start to move away from LiDAR, XPENG is setting itself up as a forerunner in visual-based autonomous driving.

For more insights on XPENG’s journey in the EV market, check out our recent article on XPENG’s expansion in Europe here and our latest coverage on how AI could reshape the EV industry here.

Let us know what you think in the comments—could AI-defined vehicles like the P7+ be the future of driving?

Photos courtesy of XPENG.