Chinese EV Brand Xpeng Set to Launch in Singapore by Second Half of 2024
Xpeng, a Chinese EV brand backed by Volkswagen, is set to launch in Singapore by the second half of 2024. Premium Automobiles has been appointed as the distributor for Xpeng in Singapore. The first Xpeng model to be available in Singapore is expected to be the G6, a sport utility vehicle with a range of 580km on a single charge.
Xpeng, a Chinese electric vehicle (EV) brand backed by German carmaker Volkswagen, is preparing to make its debut in Singapore by the second half of 2024. According to sources familiar with the negotiations, Xpeng has recently appointed Premium Automobiles as its distributor in the country. This marks the second Chinese EV brand that Premium will represent, following Zeekr from Geely.
The first Xpeng model to hit the Singaporean market is expected to be the G6, a sport utility vehicle similar in size to the Tesla Model Y. It is anticipated that the G6 will be available in a single motor version capable of covering an impressive 580km on a single charge.
Premium Automobiles, which also serves as the retail partner for German car brand Audi, declined to comment on Xpeng's arrival but confirmed that Zeekr remains on track for a launch in Singapore by the third quarter of 2024. The Straits Times has reached out to Xpeng for further details.
Xpeng's entry into the Singaporean market comes at a time when the adoption of EVs is on the rise in the country. In 2023, EVs accounted for 18.1% of total car registrations, a significant increase from 11.7% in 2022 and 3.8% in 2021.
While Xpeng delivered only 141,600 units in 2023, a fraction of Tesla's 1.08 million units, industry experts consider the Chinese brand to be one of the strongest contenders against the American EV giant. Xpeng currently sells left-hand drive models in China, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden. However, as part of its global expansion strategy, the company plans to launch right-hand drive models in the second half of 2024.
Volkswagen holds a 5% stake in Xpeng and is collaborating with the Chinese company to develop two VW-branded models specifically for the Chinese market. Automotive consultant Say Kwee Neng praised Xpeng, along with Nio and Li Auto, as Chinese EV brands that are highly regarded for their technological advancements, design, and sophistication.
The increasing presence of Chinese EV brands in Singapore is evident, with Xpeng joining at least five other Chinese brands scheduled to enter the market. These include GAC Aion, set to launch in April by Vincar, and upcoming releases from Smart, Chery, Seres, and Neta.
Experts believe that Chinese EV brands are accelerating their expansion into Singapore to establish global credibility and gain access to European markets. With EV sales in China projected to grow at a slower pace in 2024, Chinese manufacturers are looking to overseas markets to boost their sales.
Xpeng, a Chinese EV brand backed by Volkswagen, is set to launch in Singapore by the second half of 2024.
Premium Automobiles has been appointed as the distributor for Xpeng in Singapore.
The first Xpeng model to be available in Singapore is expected to be the G6, a sport utility vehicle with a range of 580km on a single charge.
Source: STRAITSTIMES