Xpeng sets up first self-branded EV supercharging station in Hong Kong
Fierce competition among auto manufacturers is extending to charging technologies
Xpeng, a maker of premium electric vehicles (EVs), chose Hong Kong as its first stop outside mainland China to set up a self-branded supercharging station, as the industry’s ambition extends to charging technologies.
On Friday, the company said it would partner with Malaysian car distributor Sime Darby to build its first charging station in Hong Kong’s Convention Square in Wan Chai. Xpeng would be the first mainland-based company to set up a self-branded supercharging network in the city, it added.
“With a charging speed of up to 360 kilowatts (KW), it will be much faster than Tesla chargers in Hong Kong,” said Brian Gu Hongdi, Xpeng’s vice-chairman and president, at the opening event of its first tech experience store in Asia.
Tesla’s superchargers deployed in Hong Kong offer a maximum charging speed of 250 KW, according to its website.
“With our partners, we are leading Hong Kong into the era of superfast charging, a technology already enjoyed by many of our customers in China,” said Gu, adding that Xpeng would bring its self-branded supercharging network to Southeast Asia soon.
Carmakers believe improved charging speed and efficiency will reduce the anxiety that drivers have about EV range, which could further boost sales.