CHINESE car-maker Xpeng has announced it is establishing factory-backed operations in Australia and taking on a new local senior team and dealer network.

In announcing Xpeng Motors Australia Pty Ltd as the importer and distributor, effective April 1, it said “this milestone represents an unwavering commitment to delivering intelligent, AI-powered mobility solutions through the highest standards of customer experience and peace of mind for the Australian market”.

“Effective immediately, Xpeng ANZ will begin to establish authorised premium dealer networks, customer support infrastructure, and factory-backed logistics to service customers across Australia’s major cities in QLD, VIC, NSW, SA, and WA,” it said in a statement.

Xpeng said it would now apply a “direct factory-backed model” to its distributorship and retail business while “building an entirely new dealer network that is perfectly aligned with the future of intelligent mobility”.

“The operations of Xpeng ANZ are led by a local senior executive team with deep expertise and a proven track record in the Australian automotive industry,” the company said.

“Having steered numerous major brands to market success, our local leadership brings the essential Australian DNA required to build a sustainable business environment from day one,” Xpeng’s statement said.

“Backed by Xpeng’s vast global technology resources, we are establishing a new benchmark for professional governance and financial transparency, ensuring that our future partners can focus on their business with absolute confidence.

Hidesuke Takesue

“Xpeng Australia will open with dedicated Xpeng customer support, servicing, and aftersales operations, all brought to life through a network of experienced Australian dealer partners.”

It said that its “immediate priorities for the Australian market” were dealer recruitment activity (which is) now underway across QLD, VIC, NSW, SA, and WA; customer support infrastructure in development for Xpeng Australia launch; and the build-out of key factory-backed logistics infrastructure in Australia.

In its “commitment to our customers and our future in Australia” it said “we acknowledge the shifts in the current landscape and remain deeply committed to the long-term stability and continuity of the Australian market”.

“Our mission is to nurture professional, mutually respectful relationships with new dealers, vendors, and partners who will join us on this journey. 

“Through localised operations powered by AI-driven innovation, Xpeng ANZ is committed to playing an active role in accelerating smart EV adoption while contributing to the evolution of the Australian automotive landscape. 

“We are inviting all who believe in the future of intelligent mobility to join us in writing this new chapter, a future where technology, customer, and ownership experience work in harmony.”

By Neil Dowling