China’s Xpeng Expects to Start Delivering ‘Flying’ Cars in 2027

Why It Matters

The rollout of aerial taxis and humanoid robots could reshape urban transport and diversify Xpeng’s revenue streams, while its global partnerships pressure traditional automakers to accelerate innovation.

Key Takeaways

• Xpeng targets mass production of flying cars by 2027.
• Over 7,000 flying‑car orders received, mainly from China.
• Humanoid robots slated for limited rollout in late 2026.
• Volkswagen partnership expands joint EV development and potential collaborations.
• Company aims for >50% revenue from overseas within decade.

Pulse Analysis

Xpeng, one of China’s fastest‑growing electric‑vehicle manufacturers, announced that it will move from prototype to large‑scale production of its much‑talked‑about ‘flying’ cars in 2027. The company has already logged more than 7,000 pre‑orders, predominantly from domestic customers, and is now navigating the lengthy certification process with the Civil Aviation Administration of China. If approved, the vehicles could operate as autonomous air taxis, offering a new layer of urban mobility that bypasses congested roadways. The timeline aligns with Beijing’s broader push to integrate aerial transport into smart‑city plans.

Strategic alliances are a cornerstone of Xpeng’s expansion strategy. A recent partnership with German automaker Volkswagen, which began mass‑producing a joint EV model last month, opens doors for shared technology, supply‑chain efficiencies, and co‑development of the flying‑car platform. In parallel, Xpeng will commence robotaxi trials in Guangzhou later this year, aiming to produce hundreds to thousands of autonomous ground vehicles within the next 12‑18 months. The firm also plans to roll out its first humanoid robots by the fourth quarter of 2026, initially serving as receptionists and sales assistants.

The dual focus on aerial vehicles and humanoid robotics positions Xpeng to diversify beyond traditional car sales, a move that could eventually eclipse its automotive revenue. With overseas sales already accounting for roughly 15% of total revenue and a target of more than half coming from outside China within a decade, the company is betting on global demand for next‑generation mobility solutions. Competitors—from legacy manufacturers to Silicon Valley start‑ups—will need to accelerate their own innovation pipelines or seek similar cross‑border partnerships to stay relevant in a market that is rapidly expanding beyond four wheels.