Xpeng, the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, has unveiled its latest innovation: the X9 Ultra. This isn’t just a refresh of their existing X9 MPV; it’s a technological leap forward powered by cutting-edge artificial intelligence. Leaked filings with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) reveal key details about this impressive vehicle.
The star attraction is the X9 Ultra’s processing power. Three custom-designed Turing AI chips, developed in-house by Xpeng, work together to deliver an astounding 2250 TOPS (Trillions of Operations Per Second). This massive computational capacity isn’t just for show; it directly enhances the driving experience. Two chips will fuel the vehicle’s advanced driver-assistance systems through its VLA large model, while a third chip will be dedicated to powering up the intelligent cockpit’s VLM large model. This means sharper responses, smoother transitions, and potentially more sophisticated autonomous features.
Beyond AI prowess, the X9 Ultra caters to practicality and style. It arrives in both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations, both equipped with ternary lithium batteries promising extended range. Visually, the X9 Ultra borrows styling cues from its extended-range sibling, particularly around the front fog lamps and lower bumper. The rear bumper also gets a similar makeover. Measuring 5316mm long, 1988mm wide, and 1785mm high, with a spacious wheelbase of 3160mm, it promises ample interior room. Customers can choose between sleek 19-inch low-drag wheels or sportier 20-inch multi-spoke wheels to suit their preferences.
Under the hood, the X9 Ultra delivers power in two flavors. The single-motor version boasts a powerful 235 kW (315 hp) electric motor. The four-wheel-drive variant takes performance up a notch with a dual-motor setup—a 235 kW (315 hp) front motor and a 135 kW (181 hp) rear motor for enhanced handling and acceleration. Both configurations rely on CALB-supplied ternary lithium batteries, ensuring efficient energy storage and range.
The unveiling of the X9 Ultra comes at a particularly exciting time for Xpeng. The company has seen a remarkable surge in its share price recently. As of November 11th at 11:00 AM (Hong Kong time), Xpeng Motors-W (09868.HK) shares climbed by a noteworthy 15%. This positive market reaction strongly correlates with investor confidence and anticipation for strong third-quarter revenue figures.
The X9 Ultra, then, is more than just an updated MPV; it’s a statement of intent from Xpeng. By aggressively integrating cutting-edge AI technology, the company positions itself at the forefront of autonomous driving development and elevates its product offerings in a highly competitive market.
