XPENG L05 Offers A Bit More

XPENG recently launched sales of the new L05 in China and began shipments to global markets. Having seen a camouflaged prototype in Munich a few months ago, I had the impression that it was basically a longer L03. Looking at the production model, other than a few added features and details, that initial impression seems to have been an accurate assessment.

Unlike some of XPENG’s models targeting more premium segments, the L03 and L05 are based on 400V architecture. 3C charging rate goes from 10-80% in around 20 minutes. Overall charge times will come out slightly ahead of a Tesla Model Y (also 400V), but not as fast as other models in China on higher voltage architectures.

In terms of length, the L03 measures 4650 mm, while the L05 increases to 4870 mm. That puts a Model Y in the middle at 4791 mm. The increase in size adds roughly 50 kg to the weight of the L05 across trim levels.

The 58.2 kWh and 71.1 kWh battery sizes in the Chinese L05 are essentially the same as the L03, but the range of the larger battery in RWD drops from 650 km CLTC to 635 km due to the larger size and weight. At this time, the L05 is not being offered with AWD in China, although that might change in export markets. The 183 kW (~245 hp) motor is also the same while the 0-100 km/h time increases from 6.6 s in the RWD L03 to 6.8 s in the larger L05. Both are a little quicker than the European Model Y Standard at 7.2 s. We’ll have to see how the range works out under WLTP.

While the L03 impressed with a larger passenger compartment than the Model Y in a smaller footprint, it did have a somewhat smaller rear cargo area. Of course, because Tesla uses a non-standard measurement for cargo volume, comparing manufacturer numbers is pointless. However, the L05 does have a larger cargo volume than the L03 under standard measurements, which would be even more if measured to the top of the squared-off roof, rather than to the top of the seatbacks. XPENG has shown it holding 9 carryon suitcases with the rear seats up, which should be more than enough for normal people. Overall, the L05 has 41 storage locations throughout the vehicle, including under-seat storage.

In addition, the L05 expands the passenger compartment even more over the Model Y. The rear seats now also have folding rear tray tables and a 17.3” entertainment screen folds from the ceiling. In addition, there are sunshades that deploy to cover the sunroof. Other than the center touchscreen increasing from 15.6” to 17.3” and a few new color options, the interior is essentially the same up front. That includes heated, cooled and massaging seats and an easily visible HUD (European models will likely also get a driver display). Ultra trims include XPENG’s excellent NGP intelligent driving system with VLA 2.0.

List prices for the L05 range from 144,800 RMB ($21,722 USD at current exchange rates) for the base 560 Plus up to 176,800 RMB ($26,522 USD) for the top 635 Ultra SE trim. An EREV version with 1310 km of combined range comes in at 154,800 RMB ($23,222) up to 166,800 RMB ($25,022 USD). However, XPENG is offering a launch discount of 5000 RMB ($750). For comparison, the L03 EV currently ranges from 123,800 RMB ($18,586 USD) to 156,800 RMB ($23,540 USD) in China.

However, a G6 comes in at the same 176,800 RMB list price as the L05 635 Ultra SE. That premium vehicle has more power and faster charging on an 800V platform with close to the same range. And it isn’t lacking in technology. At 4758 mm long, it only gives up a small amount of space compared to the L05.

Of course, those are Chinese prices. XPENG has recently been rolling its latest models with the latest technology out globally. When adding ~20% VAT, 20.7% EV countervailing duty, 10% base tariff, shipping, misc. fees… EU prices would be higher. If the L03 starts at €35,600 in Germany, the L05 could start around €38,000. For comparison, the Model Y starts at €39,900 in Germany (intelligent driving is a €99/month subscription). A G6 starts at €43,600 in Germany.

Personally, I would stick with the slightly smaller and sportier L03 if given the option. For me, the space is sufficient. In some ways, the L03 is a better Model Y competitor because it is not trying to be more than a Model Y. I could also see potential updates coming soon to the G6 to position it as more premium and provide added differentiation. However, If you like the L03 but want a bit more room, the L05 could be a good option.