Xpeng has recently unveiled a gas-powered range extender called the Kunpeng Super Electric System.
The company’s extended-range EV powertrain offers up to 267 miles (430 km) on electric alone, and up to 869 miles (1,400 km) when using both the battery and gas.
Although China’s range estimates tend to be optimistic compared to US figures, it’s an impressive range, Inside EVs reported.
By adding an internal combustion engine as a range extender, hybrids offer a practical solution for areas with unreliable charging, especially in remote regions. This makes hybrid models more accessible for people who might otherwise hesitate to switch from traditional cars.
Thus, Xpeng is using a full-sized EV battery, unlike Mazda, which reduced the MX-30 EV’s battery capacity by half for its range-extender version.
Long-range appeal with big battery and AI enhancements
Xpeng’s range extenders combine a large battery with the convenience of quick refueling, likely boosting their appeal. Xpeng also plans to add an AI Battery Doctor to extend battery life by up to 30%, with all AI functions managed by a 40-core processor that powers Level 4-capable autonomous driving systems.
Xpeng highlights its rapid charging capability of up to 960 kW, providing about 1 km of range per second. With a compatible water-cooled charger, the car can reach 80% charge in around 12 minutes, thanks to its 800-volt system. The Chinese company also plans to produce charging stations to support this speed.
Xpeng claims that when the range extender’s engine activates, passengers won’t notice, as it only raises interior noise by one decibel. The main downside could be cost, as adding a combustion powertrain might make Xpeng’s cars more expensive to produce.
Pivot to hybrids may help bypass new EU tariffs on Chinese EVs
Xpeng, which up until now was known for electric-only vehicles, may be shifting to hybrids to avoid new EU tariffs on Chinese-made EVs. The 21.3% tariff applies to fully electric vehicles, but hybrid models are exempt, which could give Xpeng a way around these fees if it can classify its cars as hybrids.
Furthermore, Xpeng’s founder, He Xiaopeng, pointed out the widespread issue of underdeveloped power infrastructure. To address this, Xpeng’s extended-range hybrid is designed with flexible charging solutions to meet the needs of various markets.
However, Xpeng has not yet announced when vehicles with this system will be available. This strategy aligns with other Chinese manufacturers like Li Auto, which focuses on extended-range EVs, and Nio, which plans to launch its first hybrid vehicle in 2026 under the Firefly sub-brand, targeting markets outside of China, mainly Europe and the Middle East.
The trend is also seen in battery manufacturer CATL, which recently launched a battery designed for extended-range hybrids, indicating growing demand for these solutions. Chinese automotive experts have also noted that the technology could offer cost benefits as China and Europe deal with charging infrastructure limitations.
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