by Xpeng presents its own robotaxi solution based on the GX crossover
Chinese automaker Xpeng has officially unveiled its version of a robotaxi, which is based on the GX model. Unlike its competitors, the company did not create a unique vehicle from scratch but adapted an existing production crossover. This allowed for a significant reduction in development and production launch costs.
The new robotaxi offers three interior layout options: five, six, and seven seats. Xpeng uses an autonomous driving system that relies exclusively on cameras, without the use of LiDARs. This approach resembles Tesla’s strategy. The company already has permits to test Level 4 autonomous systems within China.
Technical features and computing power
It is not yet known whether the robotaxi uses a hybrid powertrain with a range extender, like the production version of the GX, or is fully electric. However, the company confirmed that the vehicle is equipped with four of its own Turing AI chips, providing 3000 TOPS of computing power. The system also includes steer-by-wire technology.
The development was carried out entirely in-house by Xpeng. The vehicle is capable of operating at the L4 autonomy level. Since January, the company has been testing these cars on public roads in China, with a pilot launch of the robotaxi service planned for the second half of this year.
Human role and differences from competitors
In the initial phase, similar to Tesla’s robotaxi, a human operator will be behind the wheel of the Xpeng GX, capable of intervening in unforeseen situations. However, the Chinese company plans to eliminate these “safety officers” by the beginning of 2027.
The main difference between the Xpeng GX and most other robotaxis being tested in China is the use of a camera-only system. There are no LiDARs or high-definition maps, and navigation relies on cameras and a powerful neural network.
Although images of the robotaxi’s interior are not yet available, it is known that the vehicle will have tinted windows for privacy, entertainment screens for rear passengers, and new comfortable seats. Production has already started.
This move by Xpeng demonstrates that Chinese manufacturers are not just catching up to global leaders in autonomous driving but are also offering their own cost-effective solutions. Using a production model instead of creating a unique chassis allows for faster scaling of the technology and lowers the market entry barrier. The abandonment of LiDARs in favor of a “camera-only” system could also become a significant advantage in mass production, although it raises questions about safety in adverse weather conditions. The launch of the pilot service this year indicates a high level of technological readiness and the company’s ambition to become one of the leaders in the segment of unmanned transportation.
