Xpeng has introduced the Kunpeng Super Electric System, a new extended-range system that marks the company’s foray into hybrid vehicles after focusing solely on pure electric models for the past five years. The unveiling took place at the 2024 AI Day event in Guangzhou, where Xpeng is headquartered.
According to Xpeng, vehicles equipped with the Kunpeng system will boast a combined range of up to 1,400 kilometers, with a battery range of up to 430 kilometers. This extended-range system features the longest battery in the industry, addressing range anxiety and providing drivers with peace of mind.
The system is designed to cater to global climate and infrastructure conditions, offering Xpeng’s AI vehicles fast charging, long range, and convenient energy replenishment options. The battery pack supports 5 C fast charging, enabling a charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in just 12 minutes, equivalent to an average of 1 kilometer per second.
Notably, the Kunpeng system incorporates a silent engine that operates with minimal additional noise, ensuring a comfortable driving experience for occupants. The system optimizes power usage on different terrains, such as paved roads, hills, mud, or snow, to enhance fuel efficiency and prevent underperformance due to low battery levels.
The move towards hybrid vehicles aligns with the evolving market trends and regulatory environments. With the European Union imposing additional tariffs on Chinese-made BEVs, hybrids, including extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) models, are gaining popularity as they offer exemptions from such restrictions.
In a similar vein, other Chinese EV manufacturers like Nio and Zeekr are also exploring hybrid options to expand their market reach and cater to regions with limited EV infrastructure. Nio plans to launch its first hybrid model in 2026, targeting overseas markets where EV adoption is still in its nascent stages.
Xpeng’s decision to introduce hybrid models reflects a strategic shift in response to changing consumer preferences and regulatory landscapes. The company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability is evident in its development of the Kunpeng Super Electric System, setting the stage for a new era of versatile and eco-friendly vehicles.
