Xpeng Announces Ambitious Robotaxi Plans Following AI Breakthrough
Chinese EV manufacturer Xpeng has pivoted aggressively toward autonomous ride-hailing services, revealing plans to launch three robotaxi models by 2026. The announcement marks a dramatic reversal from previous skepticism about the technology's timeline.
At its AI Day event in Guangzhou, the company showcased proprietary Turing AI chips capable of delivering 3,000 TOPS computing power—a critical enabler for Level 4 autonomous systems. 'The technology moved faster than anyone expected,' admitted co-president Brian Gu, referencing the company's previous five-year projection for viable robotaxi operations.
Xpeng's roadmap includes strategic partnerships with Alibaba's mapping services and phased testing in Guangzhou starting 2026. The vehicles will feature innovative external displays on SUN visors to communicate trip information to pedestrians—a design choice highlighting the company's focus on urban integration.