XPeng (NYSE: XPEV) opened pre-sales for its flagship GX full-size SUV on April 15, 2026, marking the brand's latest push into the premium segment. The six-seat vehicle introduces mass-market steer-by-wire technology and robust computing hardware designed for future Level 4 autonomous driving.

The GX represents a critical step for the automaker as it seeks higher profit margins in a segment currently dominated by established domestic competitors. Showroom models will begin arriving at retail locations nationwide starting April 18.

XPeng GX pricing (XPeng)

Official pricing for the GX starts at 399,800 CNY (c. $58,640). The manufacturer is offering the vehicle with both battery electric (BEV) and extended-range electric (EREV) powertrains, maintaining a dual-path strategy previously implemented to address consumer range concerns.

This pricing strategy positions the GX directly against the Huawei-backed Aito M9, the Li Auto (NASDAQ: LI) L9, and the Nio (NYSE: NIO) ES8. The launch also preempts the upcoming Nio ES9, which recently opened pre-sales at a higher price tier.

Built on the Smart Electric Platform Architecture (SEPA) 3.0, the SUV is the first mass-produced vehicle to feature Bosch's new-generation steer-by-wire system. This setup removes the traditional mechanical connection between the steering wheel and tires, relying entirely on electrical signals and actuation motors to execute driving inputs.

XPeng GX profile (XPeng)

The integration of this system coincides with China's new mandatory national standard for vehicle steering, which takes effect on July 1 and officially establishes safety boundaries for the technology. Combined with standard rear-wheel steering, the steer-by-wire system reduces the vehicle's turning radius to just 5.4 meters.

The vehicle measures 5,265 mm in length and 1,999 mm in width, resting on a wheelbase of 3,115 mm. Structural integrity is supported by 16,000T integrated die-casting, and the cabin is equipped with 11 airbags to maximize occupant safety.

The GX is engineered as a prototype for Level 4 autonomy, relying on a pure-vision system that operates without LiDAR sensors. Processing power is supplied by four proprietary Turing AI chips delivering 3,000 TOPS, which support the company's second-generation Vision-Language-Action large models.

The BEV variant utilizes an 800-volt high-voltage silicon carbide platform paired with a 110-kWh battery, yielding a maximum China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC) range of 750 km (466 miles). It also supports 5C supercharging technology for rapid energy replenishment.

The EREV version features a smaller 63.3-kWh battery providing 430 km (267 miles) of electric-only range. When utilizing the combustion engine generator, the EREV model offers a combined range exceeding 1,585 km (985 miles).

Safety redundancy is heavily prioritized, featuring aviation-grade backup systems for critical functions including steering, braking, power delivery, and communication. The system includes a driver incapacitation assist feature that can automatically pull the vehicle over and contact emergency services if the operator becomes unresponsive.

XPeng GX interior (XPeng)

The interior cabin focuses heavily on passenger comfort, incorporating a third row of seats that can fold completely flat to 180 degrees. Additional features include a 21.4-inch rear entertainment screen, an AI-powered sterile refrigerator, and active-dimming privacy glass.

With the regulatory framework for steer-by-wire technology solidifying in China this year, will the GX prompt rival manufacturers to accelerate their own chassis innovations?

Conversion rate: 1 USD = 6.818 CNY as of April 15, 2026