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 got the impression that this was basically a longer L03. Looking at the production model, aside from a few additional features and details, that initial impression appears to have been an accurate assessment.
Unlike some of XPENG’s models aimed at more premium segments, the L03 and L05 are based on a 400V architecture. The 3C’s charging rate goes from 10 to 80% in about 20 minutes. Overall charging times will be slightly faster than a Tesla Model Y (also 400V), but not as fast as other models in China with higher voltage architectures.
In terms of length, the L03 measures 4650 mm, while the L05 increases to 4870 mm. That puts the Model Y in the middle at 4,791 mm. The increase in size adds approximately 50 kg to the weight of the L05 across all trim levels.
The Chinese L05’s 58.2 kWh and 71.1 kWh battery sizes 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 increased size and weight. At this time, the L05 is not offered with AWD in China, although that could change in export markets. The 183 kW (~245 HP) engine is also the same, while the 0-100 km/h time increases from 6.6 s in the rear-drive L03 to 6.8 s in the larger L05. Both are slightly faster than the standard European Model Y at 7.2s. We’ll have to see how scoping works under WLTP.
While the L03 impressed with a larger passenger compartment than the Model Y in a smaller footprint, it had a somewhat smaller rear cargo area. Of course, because Tesla uses a non-standard measurement for cargo volume, comparing manufacturers’ figures is meaningless. However, the L05 has a larger cargo volume than the L03 by standard measurements, which would be even larger if measured to the top of the square roof, rather than the top of the seat backs. XPENG has shown it holding 9 carry-on suitcases with the rear seats up, which should be more than enough for normal people. In total, the L05 has 41 storage locations throughout the vehicle, including under-seat storage.
Additionally, the L05 expands the passenger compartment even further over the Model Y. The rear seats now also have folding rear trays and a 17.3″ entertainment screen that folds down from the roof. Additionally, there are sunshades that fold out to cover the sunroof. Aside from the center touchscreen that increases from 15.6″ to 17.3″ and a few new color options, the interior is essentially the same up front. That’s it. includes heated, cooled and massaging seats and an easily viewable HUD (European models will likely have a driver display as well. Ultra models include XPENG’s excellent NGP intelligent driving system with VLA 2.0).
List prices for the L05 range from RMB 144,800 ($21,722 USD at current exchange rates) for the base 560 Plus to RMB 176,800 ($26,522 USD) for the top model 635 Ultra SE. An EREV version with 1,310 km of combined range costs between RMB 154,800 ($23,222) and RMB 166,800 ($25,022). However, XPENG is offering an introductory discount of RMB 5,000 ($750). For comparison, the L03 EV currently ranges between RMB 123,800 ($18,586 USD) and RMB 156,800 ($23,540 USD) in China.
However, a G6 has the same RMB 176,800 list price as the L05 635 Ultra SE. That premium vehicle has more power and faster charging on an 800V platform with almost the same range. And there is no shortage of technology. With a length of 4,758 mm, it only takes up a small space compared to the L05.
Of course, those are Chinese prices. XPENG has recently been launching its latest models with the latest technology globally. By adding ~20% VAT, 20.7% EV Countervailing Duty, 10% Base Duty, Shipping, Miscellaneous. tariffs… EU prices would be higher. If the L03 costs from €35,600 in Germany, the L05 could cost around €38,000. For comparison, the Model Y starts at €39,900 in Germany (smart driving costs €99 per month). A G6 costs from €43,600 in Germany.
Personally, I’d stick with the slightly smaller and sportier L03 if I had the option. For me the space is enough. In some ways, the L03 is a better competitor to the Model Y because it’s not trying to be more than a Model Y. You could also see potential updates coming to the G6 to position it as more premium and provide additional differentiation. However, if you like the L03 but want a little more space, the L05 could be a good option.
