XPeng recalls 33,473 X9 EVs over air spring defect

Chinese electric vehicle maker Xpeng Inc. will recall 33,473 X9 minivans in China after a defect in the front air springs could cause gradual air leaks and affect vehicle handling, the country's market regulator said Friday.

"The affected vehicles may see reduced airtightness of the front air springs, which could cause a gradual air leak after extended use in hot and humid conditions, triggering malfunction alerts or, in extreme cases, affecting vehicle handling," the State Administration for Market Regulation said in a statement.

The recall covers X9 vehicles produced between Aug. 8, 2023, and Aug. 11, 2025. Zhaoqing Xiaopeng New Energy Investment Co., a subsidiary of XPeng, filed the recall plan with SAMR on July 24, with repairs set to begin Aug. 28, 2026. The company did not disclose the estimated cost of the recall or whether any accidents or injuries had been linked to the defect.

The X9 is XPeng's flagship multi-purpose vehicle, launched in early 2024 as the company's first full-size MPV, competing directly with Li Auto's Mega and Zeekr's 009 in China's fast-growing premium EV MPV segment. XPeng delivered 190,000 vehicles in 2025, according to company filings, meaning the recall covers roughly 18 percent of its fleet over that period. The recall adds to quality-control concerns for XPeng as it pushes into higher-volume production and expands its model lineup, including the upcoming G7 SUV and the Mona brand for mass-market EVs.

XPeng shares listed in Hong Kong have fallen 12 percent this year through Thursday's close, giving the company a market value of about HK$78 billion ($10 billion). The stock may face additional pressure as investors assess the financial and reputational impact of the recall, though the company has not yet disclosed repair cost estimates.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice.