Handelsblatt’s test drive shows the Xpeng X9 luxury electric van could become a trendsetter in Europe
Executive summary: Handelsblatt conducted a test drive of the Xpeng X9 luxury electric van in Asia and reported that the vehicle shows strong potential to become a trendsetter in Europe. This signals a direct challenge from Chinese EV makers to Europe’s premium van segment, intensifying competition and possibly reshaping consumer preferences.
Who is involved: Key actors include Chinese automaker Xpeng, the German business newspaper Handelsblatt that performed the test, European luxury van buyers, and incumbent manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen.
Likely next: Xpeng is expected to launch the X9 in select European markets by early 2027, while the EU may advance its anti‑China auto alliance and related tariff measures later this year.
The Handelsblatt test highlights the Xpeng X9’s competitive credentials in the luxury van niche, noting its spacious interior and electric drivetrain. While the vehicle’s Asian reception is positive, breaking into Europe will depend on pricing, regulatory treatment, and brand perception. The piece suggests that, if Xpeng can leverage its cost advantage and navigate looming EU trade actions, the X9 could gain a foothold among premium van buyers.
Timeline
- — Xpeng X9 im Test: Wird dieser Luxus-Van aus China zum Trendsetter? (Handelsblatt)
- — E-Autos: Kampf gegen den China-Schock – EU plant Anti-China-Allianz für die Autoindustrie (Handelsblatt)
Analysis — what this means
Likely next events
- Xpeng announces European launch of the X9 luxury van in Q1 2027, targeting Germany and the Netherlands.
- EU’s Foreign Subsidies Regulation investigation into Chinese EV subsidies is scheduled to conclude by 30 November 2026.
- Mosolf’s Wilhelmshaven terminal for BYD and other Chinese vehicles is slated to become operational in Q2 2027, handling up to 150,000 units per year.
- EU anti‑China auto alliance prepares to implement new tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles starting 1 July 2027.
Sectors affected
- Luxury electric van market
- European automotive logistics and port operations
- Chinese EV exports to Europe
Regulatory implications
- EU anti‑China alliance with Japan, Korea and the UK may impose measures starting October 2026 to exclude Chinese EVs from subsidies.
- EU is preparing new tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles as part of the anti‑China alliance, though exact rates are pending.
- EU Foreign Subsidies Regulation investigation could result in retroactive duties on Chinese EV imports if subsidies are deemed unlawful.
Historical parallels
- NIO’s ET7 luxury sedan launch in Europe in 2022, marking the first premium Chinese EV entry into the European market.
- Tesla’s Model 3 began deliveries in Europe in early 2019, establishing a benchmark for EV adoption.
- Volkswagen’s ID. Buzz electric van went on sale in Europe in mid‑2022, entering the luxury‑oriented van segment.