Xpeng has introduced their new X9 flagship at the Guangzhou Auto Show.
The electric, seven-seat MPV sports a distinctive design which is designed to strike a balance between functionality and “tech-savvy aesthetics.” That being said, the model is notable for its focus on aerodynamics and Xpeng says the van has 17 anti-drag features including an eye-catching rear window that eschews traditional spoilers. This attention to detail enables the van to have a drag coefficient of 0.227, which is impressive for something so large.
Putting aerodynamics aside, the van has slender lighting units and flush-mounted door handles. They’re joined by a distinctive lower intake and sculpted bodywork.
More: The Xpeng X9 Is A Cyber Minivan With Room For Seven, Packs Nearly 500 HP
Xpeng didn’t go into many specifics, but we can see a classy cabin with a digital instrument cluster, a floating infotainment system, and wraparound wood trim. They’re joined by a dual wireless smartphone charger and stylish metal accents.
The second-row is the star of the show and it sports zero-gravity reclining seats with a footrest. They’re “tailored to [the] typical Chinese body shape” for better comfort.
Second-row passengers can relax while watching entertainment programs on a large 21.4-inch display. Should they need something to quench their thirst, there’s a built-in “fridge” with temperature settings between 0-50° C (32-122° F). Xpeng also mentioned a “free breath” climate control system, which is billed as the “world’s first wrap-around central AC” that delivers a “quiet and gentle breeze.”
While the high-tech toys are interesting, Xpeng didn’t forget about the basics. As a result, the van has a class-leading cabin height and the most spacious third-row. The second-row seats are also mounted on electric sliders, while the third-row folds flat to reveal up to 90.2 cubic feet (2,554 liters) of cargo space.
On the performance front, Xpeng says the X9 is the “world’s only mass-produced MPV featuring a front- and rear-integrated die-casting aluminum body structure.” The model also has rear-wheel steering and a standard air suspension.
We didn’t see specifications, but China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has previously revealed the van will be offered with two different powertrains. The single motor variant will have 315 hp (235 kW / 320 PS), while the dual-motor model will pack a combined output of 496 hp (370 kW / 503 PS).
The X9, which is larger than a Chrysler Pacifica, will be priced from ¥388,000 ($53,805 / £43,182 / €49,289) and deliveries are slated to begin in January.