Xpeng to Launch Three Robotaxi Models in 2026
Xpeng (NYSE: XPEV) announced plans to introduce three new robotaxi models in 2026 and begin trial operations. The initiative marks a major advancement by the Chinese electric vehicle maker in autonomous transportation.
Advanced Turing AI Chips
Each robotaxi will be equipped with four of Xpeng’s proprietary Turing AI chips, providing computing power of up to 3,000 TOPS. This hardware aims to deliver strong real-time processing capabilities for autonomous driving tasks.
AI Model and Global Adaptability
The new robotaxis will use Xpeng’s second-generation VLA (Vision-Language-Action) model. The system allows vehicles to adapt dynamically to diverse traffic environments worldwide without needing high-definition map support, simplifying production and deployment.
Scalable and Cost-Effective Production
According to Xpeng, the design of these robotaxis requires no structural modifications, reducing production costs and enabling large-scale manufacturing. The company emphasized that this approach supports expansion beyond restricted operation zones, including cross-city and potential international use.
Interactive and Open Ecosystem
The vehicles will have external communication features that show pedestrians the car’s current maneuvers, like turning or parking actions, through the windshield. Additionally, Xpeng plans to release a robotaxi Software Development Kit (SDK) to foster global cooperation and ecosystem growth.
He Xiaopeng, Chairman and CEO of Xpeng, said at the 2025 AI Day event in Guangzhou that the company’s robotaxis represent "a new stage of autonomous mobility built for global scalability."
Author’s Summary
Xpeng’s 2026 robotaxi launch, powered by advanced Turing AI chips and global-ready VLA models, sets the stage for affordable, scalable autonomous mobility worldwide.