Xpeng P7: The Latest Chinese Electric Sedan Enters the European Market

The Xpeng P7 has emerged as a formidable contender in the electric vehicle market, particularly against models like the Tesla Model 3, BMW i4, and Mercedes-Benz EQE. Originally launched in China in 2020, this sedan has undergone significant refinements for its European debut, enhancing both software and driving performance.

Measuring 4.88 metres in length, the P7 is closer in size to the Tesla Model S than the Model 3, although in terms of price and segment, the latter is its most direct competitor. Its exterior design follows the modern EV trend with sleek LED headlights and a continuous light strip at the front. Interestingly, buyers can even opt for gull-wing doors, an uncommon feature in this segment.

The interior adopts a minimalist design, inspired by Tesla but with a distinctive premium touch. The black Nappa leather seats are comfortable and luxurious, while the Dynaudio sound system with Dolby Atmos enhances the cabin experience. Some areas still feature glossy plastic, but overall, the finish quality is on par with other competitors in its segment.

Unlike many competitors, and this is one of its major drawbacks, it is not yet compatible with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, a deliberate decision by Xpeng to develop its own software ecosystem. However, Spotify comes integrated as standard.

A standout feature is the Unreal Engine-inspired interface, allowing users to interact with a 3D model of the car for functions like opening the boot or adjusting settings. Although Tesla's influence is evident, Xpeng has added enough unique elements to differentiate its system.

The Xpeng P7 is available in two versions: a single motor with 272 horsepower on the rear axle and a dual motor setup providing all-wheel drive for the Performance model, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds thanks to its 466 horsepower. Both versions use an 86.2 kWh battery, offering an impressive range of 550 kilometres (WLTP). Its 400 V architecture allows for fast charging up to 175 kW.

Driving the P7 is a pleasant experience, with agile and responsive steering uncommon in many Chinese electric vehicles. The double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear system provide a smooth ride, although it can feel stiff on uneven surfaces. The car includes various driving modes and adjustable regenerative braking, although configuring them requires navigating through several menus, and a more direct access is missed.

Xpeng has placed great emphasis on driver assistance technology, and the P7 features an impressive autonomous parking system. It includes adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assistance, and while the car is capable of Level 2 autonomy, some functions like Navigation Guided Pilot (its version of Tesla's Autopilot) are not yet available in Europe due to regulatory differences.

The Xpeng P7 is an electric vehicle that combines cutting-edge software, solid performance, and premium features. There are areas for improvement, such as some adjustments that can only be made through the central screen, but it has the formula that has brought success to other brands from its country: offering features on par with its competitors at a slightly lower price, starting at 59,990 euros without offers or incentive plans.