XPeng announced major upgrades to its G6 that allow the Tesla Model Y rival to charge from 10-80% in just 12 minutes.
The Chinese EV maker revealed technical updates to the G6 and larger G9 models. Both will come to European markets.
Central to the upgrades is a new “5C supercharging battery” which increases the G6’s charging capability from 280kW to 451kW. The larger G9 gets an even bigger boost to 525kW.
That’s enough power to take their batteries from 10-80% charge in just 12 minutes – eight minutes faster than the previous G6.
XPeng hasn’t revealed battery capacity details or potential range. The company confirmed it’s using lithium iron phosphate (LFP) construction, which reduces reliance on rare earth metals like cobalt.
For reference, the current G6 uses a 66kWh LFP battery for 270 miles of range. There’s also an 87.4kWh nickel manganese cobalt battery offering 354 miles.
Charging Speed Leadership
The upgrades put XPeng models ahead of European rivals. The closest competitors are the Porsche Macan/Taycan and Mercedes CLA, which peak at 320kW.
Tesla’s Model Y manages 250kW by comparison.
There’s a practical limitation though – just three chargers in the UK can deliver more than 450kW. A small but growing number of 500kW devices exist in mainland Europe.
The G6 upgrade brings exterior changes including a full-width Starlight Wing light bar with integrated indicators. There’s also a redesigned rear diffuser and new “matte metallic” Stellar Purple paint.
Interior Overhaul
XPeng says the G6’s cabin is 60% new, though much looks familiar.
Changes include a new dashboard and steering wheel. The company says material quality improved throughout. Massage seats with lumbar support now come standard.
Under the surface, upgraded processors handle infotainment and instrument systems. Driver assistance systems got hardware and software upgrades.
The G9 gets a Black Edition with Midnight Black finish, black badging and orange brake calipers. Inside features include a heat-insulated panoramic roof and 10-point massage seats.
Orders open in the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Norway, Denmark, Sweden and France in July. XPeng hasn’t announced when the updated models will reach the UK.
The company only arrived in the UK in April 2025, making it a relatively new player in the European EV market.
