XPeng adds new LiDAR-equipped Max variant of X9 MPV
Chinese automaker XPeng is trying to capture a larger slice of the EV market, and it has launched a new variant of its X9 MPV. The X9 610 Max is designed to entice tech-savvy buyers with its advanced driver-assistance capabilities.
The star of the show is undoubtedly the inclusion of two LiDAR sensors, a significant upgrade over the entry-level X9 610 Pro. LiDAR, or Light Detection and Ranging, uses laser pulses to create a highly detailed 3D map of the vehicle's surroundings. This technology is a cornerstone of XPeng's XNGP (Navigation Guided Pilot) system, enabling a suite of advanced assisted driving features across a wide range of scenarios. Unlike the new Max version, the X9 610 Pro lacks LiDAR and offers only highway-centric smart driving features and basic autonomous cruise control on city streets.
The X9 610 Max's ADAS is powered by two Nvidia Drive Orin chips, churning out a combined 508 TOPS of computing power. This is a substantial boost over the Pro version's single Orin chip with 254 TOPS. In the world of autonomous driving, more computing power translates to faster processing of sensor data and more responsive decision-making.
Price-wise, the X9 610 Max commands a premium of RMB 20,000 ($2,845) over the entry-level Pro model, starting at RMB 379,800 ($54,090). This puts it at the higher end of XPeng's current lineup, which includes four variants of the X9 launched earlier this year, with prices ranging from RMB 359,800 to RMB 419,800. The X9 itself holds the distinction of being XPeng's flagship model, built on the company's advanced SEPA 2.0 platform.
Despite its relatively recent launch in January, the X9 has already made a mark, with cumulative deliveries reaching 16,052 units by the end of August. That's nearly 21% of XPeng's total deliveries for the year so far. August alone saw 1,450 X9s roll off the lot, contributing to Xpeng's overall monthly sales figure of 14,036 vehicles. Interestingly, Nio CEO William Li has one in his personal collection.
With the addition of the LiDAR-equipped Max variant, XPeng clearly hopes to broaden the X9's appeal and accelerate its sales momentum. The company is betting that the allure of advanced assisted driving features, backed by powerful computing hardware, will resonate with tech-savvy consumers.
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