Xpeng has begun accepting pre-orders for the X9 MPV in Australia, and the right-hand-drive version of the Mona M03 made its local debut. Credit: Xpeng
- After the break with former exclusive dealer TrueEV, Xpeng is rebuilding its local sales and service network in Australia.
- Pre-orders are open for the Xpeng X9 MPV, starting at A$89,900 ($62,900), and the right-hand-drive Mona M03 made its local debut.
Xpeng (NYSE: XPEV) is stepping up its push into Australia, unveiling a long-term strategy for the market for the first time.
The Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker recently held an event in Melbourne, announcing that it will bring five all-new models to Australia over the next six months while continuing to build out its sales and service network, according to a statement on Monday.
Pre-orders are now open for the seven-seat flagship MPV (multi-purpose vehicle), the Xpeng X9, with prices starting at A$89,900 ($62,900). The right-hand-drive version of the more entry-level Mona M03 electric sedan made its local public debut.
On the channel side, Xpeng plans to set up three flagship smart technology experience centers and 50 sales outlets in Australia over the next six months.
On the technology front, Xpeng’s “dual powertrain” strategy is officially landing in Australia, with its Kunpeng super electric system to give local customers an option beyond pure electric, the company said.
Xpeng also said its Turing AI driver assistance system (NGP), similar to Tesla’s (NASDAQ: TSLA) FSD (Full Self-Driving), is scheduled to arrive in Australia in 2027.
At the event, Xpeng showcased its full physical AI lineup in Australia for the first time, including AI cars, the Iron humanoid robot and the Land Aircraft Carrier flying car.
The renewed push comes after a setback in the company’s local channel.
The Chinese EV maker announced its entry into Australia in May 2024, with local dealer TrueEV serving as the exclusive importer, distributor and retailer.
The Xpeng G6 SUV (sport utility vehicle) went on sale in Australia in the fourth quarter of 2024, and a retail center in Sydney opened soon after.
But TrueEV ran into funding problems, made no vehicle purchases for more than a year and failed to fulfill orders for more than 450 vehicles, prompting collective complaints from local consumers.
Xpeng subsequently ended its exclusive distribution rights, and TrueEV filed a lawsuit with Australia’s Federal Court, with the next hearing set for October.
Xpeng has hired Hidesuke Takesue, previously COO of GWM’s (HKEX: 2333) Australian unit, as COO of its own Australian operation, and has shifted its local model from exclusive distribution to a mix of direct sales and multiple dealers.
The company said earlier this year that it is also building localized parts supply, logistics distribution and technical support systems to speed up after-sales response.
Xpeng plans to lift monthly capacity for its Iron humanoid robot to more than 1,000 units by the end of this year, paving the way for a global roll-out in 2027.
($1 = A$1.4292)
