At the 2026 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference in Beijing, Xpeng showcased its latest advancements in physical AI, including humanoid robots and vehicle models such as the G9L, X9, and G7. CEO He Xiaopeng emphasized that the company is leveraging L4 model capabilities to navigate complex European road conditions, including narrow streets and areas lacking clear lane markings.
The company has integrated its second-generation VLA technology, which bridges L2 to L4 autonomous driving capabilities. He Xiaopeng predicts that full L4 technology deployment will likely occur in the second half of 2028, requiring a comprehensive, integrated development of both software and hardware systems.
He Xiaopeng outlined three major shifts in the second phase of autonomous driving. These include a transition from traditional software to AI models and data, a shift toward full-system hardware integration, and the global evolution of regulatory frameworks for L2 through L4 systems. Success will be measured by safety metrics, scenario coverage, and user willingness to pay.
