China’s EV maker Xpeng’s Kunpeng System Could Boost Vehicle Range By 869 Miles

Xpeng Unveils Breakthrough Super Electric System, A Gas Range Extender. Offers Enhanced Driving Mileage! Xpeng’s electric vehicles (EVs) now boast a range of as much as 267 miles (430 km) solely on battery power, says Inside EVs. And that distance is reportedly capable of stretching to a bold 869 miles (1,400 km) when battery power is combined with the range-extending gas engine.

This increase in range makes a big difference thereby having practical implications, especially in regions where the number of charging stations is so thin on the ground. With a hybrid model that can use an internal combustion engine when battery power runs out, Xpeng can now target customers who have so far been cautious about completely switching to electric vehicles, particularly in more remote areas. In contrast to what Mazda does with its range-extender model, the EV’s battery capacity is not reduced by Xpeng. It keeps an EV battery, so there is a substantial electric driving range with gasoline refueling when needed.

To further improve battery efficiency, Xpeng plans to introduce an AI-powered “Battery Doctor,” which can extend battery life by up to 30%. The system runs on a 40-core processor capable of managing Level 4 autonomous driving functions. Additionally, Xpeng’s 800-volt system allows for rapid charging, reaching 80% capacity in just 12 minutes with a 960 kW charger.

The new range extender could also help Xpeng navigate EU regulations, as hybrid models are exempt from the 21.3% tariff recently imposed on Chinese-made EVs. Alongside competitors like Li Auto and Nio, Xpeng is shifting to hybrids as a strategic move to address infrastructure limitations and target diverse markets, including Europe and the Middle East.

As demand for extended-range EVs grows, manufacturers like CATL have also released hybrid-compatible batteries, signaling a broader industry trend toward solutions that combine electric efficiency with the convenience of gasoline, making EV adoption more feasible in markets worldwide.