486 kW charging power: Xpeng unveils new P7 in China

The second generation of Xpeng’s electric saloon has big shoes to fill. Introduced in 2020, the first-generation P7 was one of the manufacturer’s earliest and, for a time, most popular models. Xpeng sold around 60,000 units in 2021 alone, accounting for more than half of its total deliveries. The Chinese automaker has now officially unveiled the next iteration at an event in Beijing.

The first P7 (read our driving review here) already featured a sleek design, but Xpeng has taken things further with the new model. With crisp proportions, a streamlined roofline, and ultra-slim lighting elements, the design is both distinctive and aerodynamically efficient. The drag coefficient is an impressive 0.201. From the side, it evokes classic Citroën models like the CX and C6.

Measuring 5.02 metres in length, 1.97 metres in width, and 1.43 metres in height, the new P7 slots into the upper mid-size segment and stretches 12 centimetres longer than its predecessor. A three-metre wheelbase promises generous legroom. Inside, Xpeng has embraced a high-tech approach, centring the cabin around a 15.6-inch touchscreen that can tilt and slide on three axes.

In addition to a narrow driver display, the saloon features a wide 87-inch head-up display with Huawei technology and augmented reality functions. Alongside touchscreen operation, Xpeng includes an AI-powered voice assistant. The P7 houses three in-house-developed Turing AI chips, collectively offering 2,500 TOPS. These not only support infotainment and navigation, but also power assistance systems capable of Level 3 autonomous driving.

German competitors include the BMW i5 and Mercedes EQE. Unlike these, however, the P7 is built on an 800-volt architecture supporting 5C charging and a peak power output of 486 kW. According to Xpeng, the battery can be replenished with enough energy for 525 kilometres in just ten minutes. The 10 to 80 per cent charge takes 11.3 minutes. On the Chinese market, rivals include the Xiaomi SU7, Zeekr 001, and BYD Han L.

Xpeng offers the P7 with two battery options: 74.9 or 92.2 kWh. Depending on the version, the CLTC range spans from 702 to 820 kilometres. The top figure applies to the RWD Long Range variant. Xpeng will also offer the saloon with dual-motor all-wheel drive, delivering 750 kilometres of range.

The rear-wheel drive base version produces 270 kW, while the AWD model delivers 437 kW and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds. Comfort features include standard dual-chamber air suspension with automatic level control.

Despite similar naming and dimensions, the new P7 and the P7+ unveiled earlier this year are separate models. The P7+ prioritises space and practicality, targeting families seeking a saloon with a large tailgate rather than an SUV or MPV.

Base price under €40,000 in China

While Xpeng has yet to publish official pricing, the company says it received 10,000 pre-orders in the first six minutes. Customers paid a symbolic 99 yuan deposit and will receive a 3,000 yuan discount at market launch in late August.

Given its focus on technology and design, the new P7 is expected to cost slightly more than the P7+, which sells domestically for between 186,800 and 208,800 yuan. Xpeng has stated the second-generation P7 will be positioned around 300,000 yuan—approximately €35,800.

As the previous P7 is available in Germany, the new model is also expected to enter the European market. However, with EU tariffs on Chinese EVs and additional import costs, prices are likely to be significantly higher in the region.

carnewschina.com, cnevpost.com

This article was first published by Elias Holdenried for electrive’s German edition.