XPeng X9 spied - a most unconventional electric MPV

If you thought minivans were the epitome of uncool, the XPeng X9 is here to challenge that stereotype with a design that's anything but ordinary. This Chinese electric multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) is sure to make a lot of people talk, mainly because of its unique exterior styling. XPeng is quite brave with the new design and its first-ever electric MPV is set to hit the Chinese market in the last quarter of 2024.

The XPeng X9, previously known by its code name H93, is an electric MPV that promises up to 497 miles of range. That's a lot of juice for a vehicle that's reportedly 5 meters long. It's set to go toe-to-toe with competitors like the Zeekr 009, Denza D9, and the upcoming Li Auto Mega. Being the first MPV from XPeng wasn’t enough apparently, it's the first vehicle in XPeng's all-new X-series. That means more bigger, and more standout EVs from the company.

Now, let's talk about this blue elephant in the room. The X9 is covered in a blue-colored wrap, which might seem odd to those of us who associate eco-friendliness with the color green. But in China, blue is the color of ecology. It’s definitely a step away from the usual black and white wraps hiding the new vehicle design. XPeng is making sure we don’t miss the fact that this MPV is as eco-friendly as it is eye-catching.

But what really sets the X9 apart is its design. This isn't your grandma's minivan. The X9 sports slanted D-pillars and a sloped roofline, giving it a look that's more MPV-coupe than standard MPV. It's like the mullet of minivans - business in the front, party in the back. The front end features slanted A-pillars and a short bonnet line, with an LED running light strip right under it. The headlights are noteworthy, but what's really interesting are the LiDAR sensors integrated into the front bumper. Yep, this MPV is keeping up with the tech trends.

The frameless air intake in the lower part of the bumper is a feature worth mentioning on its own. It's a small detail, but it adds to the overall quirkiness of the vehicle. The X9 also comes with retractable door handles and real side-view mirrors. Its rear doors are sliding, and the taillights wrap around the sides of this space-age-looking EV.

Although we get only one murky photo of the inside, the X9 doesn't disappoint there either. It features a large floating screen, a two-spoke D-shaped steering wheel, and not one but two wireless charging pads. Oh, and it has cup holders, because let's face it, what's a road trip without a place to put your coffee?

The X9 is set to be the first vehicle in Xpeng's X-series, And if it is any indication, the X-series is going to be anything but ordinary. And if you have this weird feeling that you have seen this vehicle before - think of Citroen MPVs from about 20 years ago, but slightly more angular. Once you see it - you cannot unsee it. So, is the Xpeng X9 going to revolutionize the MPV market? Well, it's way too early to tell. But it's definitely going to make you rethink what an MPV can be.

Via