Xpeng is taking direct control of its UK business through a new national sales company in a move intended to increase investment in its dealer network, brand development and customer experience.
The Chinese EV manufacturer has reached an agreement with International Motors that will replace its distributor-led launch structure with direct national operations.
Xpeng will assume responsibility for the strategic and commercial development of the brand in the UK, while International Motors will continue to provide operational services, infrastructure and local distribution expertise.
For dealer partners, the proposed benefit is greater access to Xpeng’s global investment and decision-making while maintaining continuity across the operational functions established by International Motors.
Direct control after UK launch
International Motors was appointed Xpeng’s official UK distributor in November 2024, ahead of the brand’s launch with the G6 electric SUV in early 2025.
The companies initially planned to establish 20 dealerships during 2025 with the first Xpeng dealerships opening in Nottingham and Southampton in April that year.
Xpeng said its growing UK scale had prompted the move from an importer-led launch arrangement to a manufacturer-controlled national sales company.
The new structure will give Xpeng direct responsibility for investment in its dealer network, marketing, customer experience and future product launches.
Elvis Cheng, general manager of Xpeng North Eastern Europe, said: “The establishment of our UK national sales company marks an important next step in Xpeng’s long-term commitment to the market.”
He added: “Xpeng recognises International Motors’ important contribution and valuable role in successfully launching Xpeng in the UK and creating strong foundations for future growth.
“By combining direct Xpeng leadership and investment with International Motors’ proven local capabilities, we are creating the right structure to scale the brand, strengthen the customer experience and bring our next generation of intelligent vehicles to more customers across the UK.”
The hybrid arrangement allows Xpeng to take closer control of pricing, product strategy, marketing and network development without immediately having to replace the operational capabilities created by International Motors.
Xpeng has not detailed any changes to existing dealer agreements, network targets or day-to-day operational contacts under the new structure.
New models broaden dealer offer
The manufacturer said its UK expansion will continue with a broader product portfolio, including the Xpeng X9 electric seven-seater and the recently announced L03 SUV coupe.
The two models will expand Xpeng’s showroom coverage beyond the G6 and give its dealerships access to additional market segments as the brand grows.
William Brown, managing director of International Motors, said: “This agreement is good news for Xpeng, its retailers and its customers in the UK. It gives the brand greater direct support from Xpeng globally, while preserving the continuity, infrastructure and local expertise that International Motors has built over its 50-year history.”
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