Xpeng tests autonomous driving in Paris

At the Paris Motor Show, Xpeng allowed visitors to experience its supervised autonomous driving system NGP on real streets in Paris. This was the first time outside of China for the company, which aims to compete with Tesla's FSD and plans to deploy NGP in Europe by 2027.

Autonomous Lab showcases multiple systems

The event, known as Autonomous Lab, allowed visitors to test both Tesla's FSD and Xpeng's NGP. For Xpeng, this was a significant moment as it marked the first large-scale experience of its system outside of China. However, without official authorization in France, a driver remained in control with a pre-set route.

NGP is a level 2++ autonomous system

NGP is described as a level 2++ autonomous driving system. Once a destination is entered via GPS, the car manages acceleration, braking, steering, lane changes, and intersections. Activation is indicated by blue lights on the steering wheel and an NGP icon on the central screen. However, the driver must remain attentive and confirm their presence every 30 seconds.

NGP uses Xpeng's AI model

Technically, NGP is based on Xpeng's VLA 2.0 AI model, which processes images from cameras to generate driving commands. The system uses 24 cameras and sensors, along with Google Maps data, and does not use LiDAR or high-definition maps. The tested L03 model is equipped with three Turing AI chips, offering a computing power of 2,250 TOPS.

NGP performed smoothly during the test

During a 20-minute test, NGP operated smoothly without sudden movements. The system adhered strictly to speed limits and demonstrated good environmental awareness, stopping before a red light and avoiding obstacles. The system's behavior can be adjusted through a menu, and it switches to co-driving mode when the driver intervenes.

System's safety and reliability remain concerns

Despite the smooth operation, the system's safety is still under question. The test was conducted at low speeds and with heavy supervision, which may not reflect real-world conditions. Colleagues from La Chaîne EV reported less confidence in the system's safety, noting instances where it failed to anticipate certain situations.

Xpeng faces challenges in Europe

Xpeng lacks the extensive data that Tesla has gathered from its vehicles in Europe. While NGP has been functional in China since 2026, it needs to learn European traffic conditions and road signs. The company has conducted tests in Germany and France but does not have the same data as Tesla.

Regulatory approval is a hurdle

Xpeng plans to gradually deploy NGP in Europe starting in 2027, but the business model is not yet clear. It will need approval from European authorities, a process Tesla has also faced. Tesla's FSD, now called Tesla Assisted Driving, received certification in the Netherlands in April 2026, but a European-wide approval requires a vote by member states.

Data and privacy concerns loom

As Europe tightens regulations on risky technologies, Xpeng must provide clear assurances about data processing and storage. NGP continuously films the car's environment and uses Google Maps data. The location and handling of this data will be crucial for gaining regulatory approval. 2027 may be an optimistic timeline for full deployment.