Xpeng to Launch Three Robotaxi Models in 2026
Xpeng (NYSE: XPEV), the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, announced plans to release three robotaxi models in 2026 and begin trial operations for the service. The announcement was made by Chairman and CEO He Xiaopeng during the 2025 AI Day event in Guangzhou, the company's headquarters.
Advanced AI and Computing Power
Each robotaxi will be equipped with four of Xpeng's proprietary Turing AI chips, delivering computing power up to 3,000 TOPS.
The vehicles integrate Xpeng's second-generation VLA (Vision-Language-Action) model, enabling adaptive operation across various global traffic conditions.
Innovative Features for Scalability
- No vehicle modifications or reliance on high-definition maps are required, reducing production costs.
- Robotaxis can operate beyond restricted zones, supporting cross-city and cross-border deployments worldwide.
- External interaction capabilities allow pedestrians to understand vehicle intentions—such as turning or searching for parking—via the windshield display.
Collaboration and Ecosystem Development
Xpeng intends to open its robotaxi Software Development Kit (SDK) to global partners to foster an ecosystem for robotaxi technologies.
“These robotaxis will feature four of Xpeng's in-house developed Turing AI chips, delivering computing power of up to 3,000 TOPS.” – He Xiaopeng
Author's summary: Xpeng plans to launch three AI-powered robotaxi models in 2026, offering scalable, low-cost autonomous vehicles with advanced interaction features and a global deployment strategy.