BUSINESS

XPeng Launches L03 in Germany Amid China EV Makers’ Europe Push

Published: Jul. 18, 2026 5:28 a.m. GMT+8

00:00

00:00/00:00

Listen to this article 1x

XPeng Inc. launched L03 compact SUV in Munich, Germany, on July 16, 2026. Photo: VCG

XPeng Inc. unveiled its new L03 model in Munich on July 16, marking the Chinese electric-vehicle maker’s first simultaneous launch of a global model overseas and in China.

The debut underscores a broader push by Chinese automakers to expand abroad, particularly in Europe, as they seek higher margins amid slowing domestic sales and intensifying competition at home.

You've accessed an article available only to subscribers

Subscribe today for just $.99.

VIEW OPTIONS

Unlock exclusive discounts with a Caixin group subscription — ideal for teams and organizations.

Save an extra $50. Introductory offer for new readers. Subscribe now.

Share this article

Open WeChat and scan the QR code

DIGEST HUB

Digest Hub

Back

Explore the story in 30 seconds

XPeng unveiled L03 in Munich on July 16, its first global model launched simultaneously overseas and in China.
The MONA series L03 is priced €35,600 in Germany and ¥123,800 in China, with plans to sell in 65 countries by 2026.
XPeng began local manufacturing in Europe in Q3 2025 at a Magna plant in Austria; China exports still cost-competitive.

AI generated, for reference only

Who’s Who

XPeng Inc.: XPeng Inc. unveiled the L03 globally in Munich on July 16, its first simultaneous overseas and China launch. The MONA series model starts at €35,600 in Germany. XPeng began localized European production in Q3 2025 at Magna's Austrian plant and aims to sell the L03 in 65 countries in 2026.

BYD Co. Ltd.: According to the article, BYD Co. Ltd. unveiled its all-electric Denza Z supercar in the UK on July 9 before opening presales in China. It follows a strategy of expanding abroad to seek higher margins amid slowing domestic sales.

Didi Global Inc.: According to the article, Didi Global Inc. sold its carmaking business to XPeng in August 2023. This acquisition formed the basis of XPeng's MONA series.

Magna International Inc.: According to the article, Magna International Inc. is a global auto supplier and contract manufacturer. It operates a plant in Austria, where it currently builds XPeng's G6, G9, and P7+ models. As Magna's contract-manufacturing capacity nears saturation, XPeng's new L03 model is expected to be added to their localized production projects.

AI generated, for reference only

What Happened When

August 2023：: XPeng acquired Didi Global Inc.'s carmaking business, which later led to the MONA series.

August 2024：: XPeng launched the M03 model, which received a strong market response.

Third quarter of 2025：: XPeng began localized manufacturing in Europe at an Austrian plant operated by Magna International Inc.

April 2026：: At the Beijing Auto Show, XPeng vice chairman Brian Gu highlighted plans to add or expand local manufacturing capacity in Europe and Brazil.