2024 Xpeng G6: All you need to know about the Tesla Model Y rival

For those who haven't caught wind of it yet, let us bring you up to speed on a pivotal development in the automotive sphere. Bermaz Auto, the distinguished parent company of Kia and Mazda in Malaysia, has made a bold move by parting ways with Peugeot to embrace a new frontier: XPeng, the innovative EV manufacturer hailing from China.

Though some might view the swap of a globally recognized brand for an emerging one as risky, the potential harbored by XPeng is vast, especially considering the electric vehicle sector's rapid expansion.

One of the first fruits of the Bermaz-XPeng collaboration anticipated to hit Malaysian shores is the XPeng G6. If this is the first you're hearing of this electric SUV, you're not alone. Its novelty is such that even XPeng's own site hasn't showcased it yet.

Launched in China in June 2023, the G6 is a trailblazer, embodying XPeng's cutting-edge SEPA2.0 technology architecture. It reflects the brand's ambition for the next generation of Smart EVs, boasting an impressive design, top-tier intelligence and charging tech, alongside a cabin that merges spaciousness with luxury.

In China, where the vehicle is configured for left-hand drive, the G6 stands as a highly competitive option in its price segment. However, its adaptation to right-hand drive marks XPeng's inaugural venture into such a design, potentially signaling modifications for compatibility with markets like Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore.

According to insights from Headlight Magazine, a leading automotive source in Thailand, the G6 is poised to make its Southeast Asian debut, starting with Thailand.

This entry provides a glimpse into the model's expected pricing and features for the ASEAN market, giving us a much-anticipated preview of what's to come from this Bermaz and XPeng partnership.

Meet the ASEAN Xpeng G6 

MGC-ASIA, the official importer and distributor of XPeng vehicles in Thailand, is gearing up to showcase a variety of electric vehicles, including the eagerly awaited XPeng G6, set to hit the Thai market in the third quarter of 2024. 

According to Headlight Magazine, the XPeng G6 will be introduced in the Land of Smiles, in two distinct variants: both are rear-wheel drive configurations.

The expected pricing for the G6 Standard Range is around 1,5XX,000 baht (equivalent to approximately RM200,000), and the G6 Long Range is estimated at about 1,7XX,000 baht (around RM230,000). This pricing strategy positions the G6 competitively against its primary competitor, the Tesla Model Y which in Malaysia starts from RM200,000.

Interestingly, the G6 too, is a mid-size crossover SUV with a coupe-style body, and is poised to make a splash as a 100% electric power contender in the same category as the Tesla Model Y. We can't say it's a budget version of the model Y because the price seems to be the same, but who knows, it might be cheaper when it arrives in Malaysia undercutting the Model Y.

Dimension-wise, the G6 closely matches the Tesla Model Y, with a length of 4,753 mm, width of 1,920 mm, and height of 1,650 mm, including a wheelbase of 2,890 mm, positioning it slightly taller than its Tesla counterpart.

Powertrain specs

The propulsion for both G6 models comes from an identical rear-mounted motor, delivering 296 PS (218 kW) and 440 Nm of torque.

This setup propels the G6 from a standstill to 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds, with the Long Range version slightly quicker, achieving this in 5.9 seconds, and both variants maxing out at a top speed of 202 km/h.

As of now, it remains uncertain if the more potent dual-motor all-wheel-drive model, boasting 487 PS and 660 Nm, will be available in the ASEAN market.

What else is different between the Standard and Long Range?

The distinguishing factor between the two models lies in their battery capacity: the Standard Range is equipped with a 66 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, offering up to 580 km range, while the Long Range version utilizes an 87.5 kWh nickel cobalt manganese (NCM) battery, extending the range to 755 km.

However, these figures derive from the CLTC cycle, known for its generous estimations, meaning real-world ranges may vary and bring it down closer to 600km. 

Luxury bits of kit

For the Thai market, the XPeng G6 is set to arrive with a wealth of features designed to blend luxury with technology. Buyers can expect LED exterior lighting, 20-inch alloy wheels, and sleek pop-out door handles for a modern touch.

The car's design is further enhanced by frameless windows and an automatic charging port door. Inside, the G6 boasts a digital instrument display and a large 14.96-inch touchscreen for all your infotainment needs.

Comfort is prioritized with electrically adjustable front seats and an 18-speaker audio system for an immersive listening experience. Practical features like parking assistance, a panoramic glass roof, a power-operated tailgate, a rear wiper, and six airbags ensure convenience and safety for all passengers.

Moreover, the G6 doesn't skimp on technology aimed at making driving more effortless and secure. It comes equipped with Lidar sensors, laying the groundwork for advanced autonomous driving capabilities.

This addition underscores XPeng's commitment to not just keeping up with current automotive trends, but leading the way in smart vehicle innovation, ensuring drivers benefit from the latest in safety and convenience technologies.

Body rigidity, superlative performance, ultimate safety

In simpler terms, the G6 is designed to be really stable and easy to handle, thanks to its balanced weight distribution and a low center of gravity. Its unique construction makes it stiffer than usual, which means it can zip around corners smoothly and accelerate super fast.

In simpler terms, the G6 is designed to be really stable and easy to handle, thanks to its balanced weight distribution and a low center of gravity. Its unique construction makes it stiffer than usual, which means it can zip around corners smoothly and accelerate super fast - hitting 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds.

Safety-wise, the G6 is top-notch. It's built to ace the toughest safety tests out there, using a mix of strong steel and light aluminum to keep you protected without weighing the car down. The car's structure is so tough, it can handle a hit with the force of 80 tons. Plus, its battery is built to take extreme heat and is super waterproof, so you don't have to worry about the elements.

On top of that, the G6 is packed with safety tech. It's got 13 advanced systems to prevent accidents, including two LiDARs  and cameras to keep an eye on everything happening around the car. 

Cabin space looks nice, as nice as a Tesla 

Crafted in collaboration with renowned Sci-Fi author Liu Cixin, the G6 showcases a futuristic body design with sleek, tech-inspired lines. Its distinctive suspended roof and expansive 2890mm wheelbase create a spacious interior, offering ample headroom and generous rear seating.

This innovative design merges the elegance of a coupe's fastback silhouette with the practical need for cabin space, delivering unparalleled comfort and roominess.

XPENG led the way in 2019 as China's first EV manufacturer to introduce smart cockpit technologies. The latest G6 comes loaded with the advanced Xmart OS 4.0, leveraging a Qualcomm Snapdragon SA8155P chipset and a large 14.96-inch touchscreen for an interactive, AI-driven user experience reminiscent of conversational AI.

It features XPENG's cutting-edge voice assistant 2.0, enabling seamless real-time voice command recognition, conversations across different zones within the car, and offline interactions, setting new standards for in-car intelligence.

The G6's groundbreaking design and state-of-the-art technology have not only captivated consumers but have also garnered acclaim from design connoisseurs globally.

It recently clinched the Platinum Award in the Transportation Design category at the MUSE Design Awards, a prestigious international accolade celebrating innovative design that challenges conventional thinking. This recognition in the United States marks a significant milestone for the G6, highlighting its exceptional blend of aesthetics and functionality.

Also Read:  Bermaz Auto secures XPeng EV distribution in Malaysia, expanding its EV range - Xpeng G6 to be the first to arrive?