BEIJING: Chinese electric vehicle maker Xpeng has said it expects to begin large-scale production of its “flying” cars next year, while production of its humanoid robots is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2026, President Brian Gu told Reuters on Thursday.
Gu also highlighted “tremendous potential” for deeper cooperation with German automaker Volkswagen, which last month started mass production of its first electric vehicle developed in partnership with Xpeng.
“There are many areas where we can collaborate and create value for each other,” Gu said, adding that the company is also open to working with other automakers.
“We need to remain agile and willing to partner with different players across different regions.”
Xpeng has reportedly received more than 7,000 orders for its flying cars, most of them in China, where the company is currently seeking regulatory approval from aviation authorities.
Speaking ahead of the Beijing Auto Show, Gu said the company plans to begin robotaxi trials in Guangzhou this year, adding that 2027 would be a “key year” for global testing in collaboration with partners.
He added that Xpeng could produce several hundred to a few thousand robotaxis over the next 12 to 18 months.
According to Gu, the company’s humanoid robots will initially be deployed in roles such as reception and sales assistance to interact with customers. He also suggested that over the next 10 to 20 years, the robotics division could grow larger than its automotive business due to expanding real-world applications.
Like many Chinese automakers, Xpeng has been expanding internationally and now operates in around 60 countries outside China.
Gu said overseas markets accounted for about 10% of sales volume and roughly 15% of revenue last year, adding that this share could exceed 50% within the next five to 10 years.