We got an early look at the XPeng X9 during its debut at the eCar Expo in Oslo, and it’s safe to say, it’s no ordinary family hauler. With futuristic features, surprising performance, and a design that refuses to blend in, the X9 is positioning itself as a high-tech alternative in the growing electric MPV segment. Here's what stood out.

Range and Charging

The X9 offers two battery options under its sizeable body: a 101.5 kWh ternary lithium battery or a slightly smaller 88.5 kWh LFP pack. According to XPeng, the single-motor version can deliver up to 702 km on a full charge with the larger pack, or 610 km with the smaller one (based on CLTC standards).

Charging is one of the X9’s most impressive party tricks. Thanks to its 800V silicon carbide architecture, you can top up 300 km of range in just 10 minutes. A 30% to 80% charge takes only 16 minutes using high-power DC charging. XPeng even claims the X9 supports up to 330 kW charging speeds, putting it among the fastest-charging EVs in the world.

Exterior

At 5.3 metres long and nearly 2 metres wide, the X9 doesn’t exactly whisper “subtle.” And yet, its aerodynamic efficiency is commendable, it even outperforms the Tesla Model Y in drag coefficient. While not quite as slippery as the Li Auto MEGA, the X9 manages to be bold without being brash.

Styling-wise, XPeng clearly wanted to push away from the traditional "van-like" MPV aesthetic. The result is something far more sculpted and futuristic. It borrows heavily from the sportier XPeng P5, ditching the soft curves for edgier lines, a honeycomb grille, and a distinctive rear light bar with the brand’s first illuminated logo.

Interior

Step inside, and the X9 continues to impress. The flat-floor layout and open cabin give it a lounge-like feel, and XPeng isn’t shy about the luxury touches. Think reclining, heated, cooled, and massaging second-row seats, complete with extendable leg rests, all controlled by intuitive physical buttons. There’s even a refrigerated and heated compartment in the second row with an auto-open door, perfect for road trip snacks or chilled drinks.

But the real showstopper? A 21.4-inch rear ceiling-mounted entertainment screen. It folds down smoothly and can be adjusted both manually and through the touchscreen or a remote that combines buttons with a laptop-style touchpad. It’s a joy to use and makes backseat entertainment feel downright cinematic, especially when paired with the optional zero-gravity seats.

A wheelbase close to 3.2 metres translates to an interior that feels incredibly roomy, even in the third row. The steep rear roofline doesn’t hurt headroom, but it does shave a bit off the cargo area. That said, XPeng smartly designed a deep rear storage cavity, offering 755 litres with all seats up. Fold the third row flat at the touch of a button, and you unlock a cavernous 2,554 litres of total cargo space.

Verdict

XPeng's X9 is not just another electric MPV, it’s a rolling showcase of what happens when tech innovation meets practical design. With fast charging, tons of interior flexibility, premium passenger comforts, and a truly distinctive look, this EV feels more like a luxury lounge on wheels than a people-mover.

If XPeng prices this right, it won’t just be competing in the MPV space, it might redefine it altogether.