The XPENG G3 is a compact battery electric SUV produced by the Chinese manufacturer XPENG Motors from January 2018 to July 2021. Positioned as XPENG’s first mass-produced vehicle, the G3 was designed to compete in the burgeoning electric vehicle market, primarily within China. While not officially sold in the United States, the G3 represents a significant step in the development of Chinese EV technology and offers a glimpse into the rapidly evolving automotive landscape of the region. It aimed to provide a technologically advanced and relatively affordable electric SUV option for consumers seeking a practical and eco-friendly transportation solution.
XPENG G3: Overview and Market Position
The XPENG G3 entered a market increasingly focused on sustainable transportation. In China, government incentives and growing environmental awareness fueled demand for electric vehicles. The G3 was specifically engineered to appeal to urban consumers, offering a blend of practicality, technology, and affordability. It served as a crucial model for XPENG, establishing the brand and paving the way for subsequent vehicle releases. The vehicle’s design and features were geared towards a tech-savvy demographic, incorporating advanced driver-assistance systems and a modern interior.
Engine & Performance
The XPENG G3 is powered by a single electric motor producing 197 horsepower. This motor delivers 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) of torque, providing brisk acceleration for a vehicle in its class. The G3 utilizes a 47.6 kWh battery pack, enabling an all-electric range of 365 kilometers (226.8 miles) under optimal conditions. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 8.2 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in a calculated 7.8 seconds. The vehicle’s weight-to-power ratio is 8 kg/Hp, or 124.3 Hp/tonne, contributing to its responsive driving characteristics. The powertrain is a front-wheel-drive configuration, coupled with a single-speed automatic transmission, typical of most battery electric vehicles.
Design & Features
The XPENG G3 is a five-door SUV with seating for five passengers. Its exterior design is modern and aerodynamic, with a focus on maximizing efficiency. The drag coefficient of 0.30 contributes to its range and overall performance. The interior features a minimalist design with a large touchscreen display controlling many of the vehicle’s functions. Key features include advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and a spacious interior with a flexible cargo area. The trunk offers 380 liters (13.42 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 760 liters (26.84 cu. ft.) when folded down. The G3’s dimensions are 4450 mm (175.2 in.) in length, 1820 mm (71.65 in.) in width, and 1600-1668 mm (62.99 – 65.67 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2610 mm (102.76 in.).
Safety and Technology
The XPENG G3 incorporated several technological advancements for its time. The ADAS suite, including ABS, aimed to enhance safety and driver assistance. The large touchscreen infotainment system provided access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. Over-the-air (OTA) software updates were a key feature, allowing XPENG to continuously improve the vehicle’s functionality and performance. The G3’s focus on technology was a significant selling point, appealing to consumers seeking a connected and modern driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | XPENG |
| Model | G3 |
| Generation | G3 |
| Type (Engine) | 47.6 kWh (197 Hp) BEV |
| Start of production | January, 2018 |
| End of production | July, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp |
| Gross battery capacity | 47.6 kWh |
| All-electric range | 365 km / 226.8 mi |
| Electric motor power | 197 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 300 Nm / 221.27 lb.-ft. |
| System power | 197 Hp |
| Kerb Weight | 1585 kg / 3494.33 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l / 13.42 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 760 l / 26.84 cu. ft. |
| Length | 4450 mm / 175.2 in. |
| Width | 1820 mm / 71.65 in. |
| Height | 1600-1668 mm / 62.99 – 65.67 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2610 mm / 102.76 in. |
| Front track | 1546 mm / 60.87 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1551 mm / 61.06 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm / 5.51 in. |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.7 m / 35.1 ft. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 215/55 R17; 235/40 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 19 |
The XPENG G3, while not widely available in the US market, represents a significant milestone in the development of Chinese electric vehicles. Its combination of technology, practicality, and affordability positioned it as a competitive option in its segment, contributing to the growth of the EV market in China and showcasing the increasing capabilities of Chinese automotive manufacturers.
