Chinese EV manufacturer XPeng has officially begun mass production of its new flagship crossover, the XPeng GX. The vehicle was designed not only as another model in the company’s lineup but also as a technological platform for future mobility solutions.
The main highlight of the GX is the implementation of a steer-by-wire system, meaning the steering wheel has no direct mechanical connection to the wheels. In conventional vehicles, steering input is transmitted through a mechanical steering column, but in this system all commands are sent electronically. This allows engineers to flexibly adjust steering characteristics depending on driving conditions.
The technology offers several advantages. Steering response can be adapted to different speeds and driving modes, providing lighter steering in city traffic and firmer feedback at higher speeds. In addition, the fully digital control system integrates easily with advanced driver-assistance and autonomous driving technologies. XPeng states that the GX was developed with Level 3 autonomous driving capabilities and beyond in mind.
In terms of performance, the model matches the expectations of a modern premium electric SUV. A dual-motor powertrain provides all-wheel drive with a combined output of about 430 kW (approximately 585 horsepower) and 700 Nm of torque. Despite its size – the SUV measures over five meters in length – the GX can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in roughly 4 seconds.
The vehicle is built on an 800-volt electrical architecture, enabling ultra-fast charging. According to the manufacturer, 10–15 minutes of charging can add around 300–400 km of range. Battery capacity is estimated at 100–110 kWh, providing a driving range of up to 650–700 km under the CLTC cycle.
The GX is also equipped with rear-wheel steering, allowing the rear wheels to turn up to 5–7 degrees. This significantly improves maneuverability in urban environments while enhancing stability at higher speeds.
With the GX, XPeng is clearly betting on the transition toward fully digital vehicle control, where software plays an increasingly important role in driving dynamics. The model can be seen as an intermediate step between traditional vehicles and the fully autonomous cars of the future.
