Xpeng’s Strategic Shift: Embracing Pure Vision Smart Driving Solutions in Updated G6 and G9

The Transition Away from LiDAR

Xpeng (NYSE: XPEV), a leading electric vehicle manufacturer, has officially filed for the facelifted versions of its popular SUV models, the G6 and G9. Notably, these filings indicate a significant change in technology approach, as both models will no longer feature the LiDAR option. This strategic shift by Xpeng to a pure vision smart driving solution marks an important milestone in the company’s evolution towards advanced autonomous driving capabilities.

The decision to remove LiDAR from the G6 and G9 follows a similar move with the P7+, which was launched without LiDAR support. Instead, Xpeng is opting for a pure vision-based system that relies on camera inputs and sophisticated software algorithms to navigate roads. This aligns with the philosophy championed by Tesla, another major player in the EV market, which has long advocated for pure vision solutions over hybrid approaches that combine cameras and LiDAR sensors.

Regulatory Milestones and Specifications

Catalog Submission and Public Comment Period

The updated G6 and G9 have been included in the latest catalog released by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). This catalog submission represents the final major regulatory step required before these models can be sold in China. A public comment period from December 10-16 provides stakeholders with an opportunity to provide feedback on the new vehicles.

Technical Details of the Facelifted Models

G6 Model Specifications

For the G6, the facelifted model numbers NHQ6481BEVFA, NHQ6481BEVFB, and NHQ6491BEVFB are listed. These variants are all single-motor configurations with peak power output of 218 kW. They come equipped with batteries from CALB, including lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and lithium ternary cells. The length of the refreshed G6 has slightly increased to 4,758 mm, while other dimensions remain consistent with the current model.

G9 Model Specifications

Meanwhile, the G9 retains its dual-motor configuration alongside a single-motor option. The single-motor version boasts a peak motor power of 258 kW, complemented by a front motor with a peak power of 165 kW in the dual-motor setup. The G9 exclusively uses LFP batteries supplied by CALB. Its dimensions match those of the existing G9, maintaining a length of 4,891 mm, width of 1,937 mm, height of 1,680 mm, and a wheelbase of 2,998 mm.

Vision-Based Smart Driving Solution

AI Eagle Eye: A Leap Forward

A key highlight of the updated G6 and G9 is the adoption of Xpeng’s AI Eagle Eye smart driving solution. This technology does not depend on high-definition maps or LiDAR, setting it apart from many competitors who rely on sensor fusion methods. Powered by Nvidia Orin X chips, this system promises enhanced navigation guided pilot (XNGP) functionality at the time of delivery. By focusing on a pure vision approach, Xpeng aims to offer a more cost-effective and efficient driving experience that mirrors human perception and decision-making processes.

Emulating Human Observation

Tesla’s vice president of external affairs, Grace Tao, highlighted the importance of designing autonomous systems around how humans observe and interact with road environments. Roads and traffic regulations are built for human eyes, optic nerves, and brains; therefore, using cameras, visual neural networks, and autonomous driving hardware allows for a driving experience that matches or even surpasses human capabilities. Tesla’s stance against the use of LiDAR emphasizes the belief that such sensors complicate decision-making for the vehicle’s AI and increase costs without proportionate benefits.

In conclusion, Xpeng’s transition to a pure vision smart driving solution in its updated G6 and G9 models signifies a bold step forward in the pursuit of safer and smarter fully autonomous driving. As one of the first Chinese car companies to embrace this approach, Xpeng positions itself at the forefront of innovation within the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market.