A camouflaged XPENG MONA was recently seen testing its VLA 2.0 intelligent driving system in Munich ahead of its European launch this week. In context, the vehicle seems to fit well for European roads and attracted some attention. While XPENG said they would release their intelligent driving system shortly after new EU regulations go into effect, they clearly are wasting no time getting in the test miles. I had previously seen a camouflaged prototype of this vehicle in Guangzhou last year, and it attracted a lot of attention there as well. Following the pre-sale launch in China, it looks like it will be a fierce competitor in the sweet spot of the global EV market. Several YouTube channels have started trickling out early test drives in China and seem positive overall. Most reviewers see it as well suited for the young people it is targeting. However, we may see some tweaks and a rumored AWD version in Europe. XPENG MONA L03 in Munich While it looks good on computer screens and on spec sheets, what will really determine success is how well it is executed. I was impressed with the VLA 2.0 intelligent driving system in Beijing last April. It could see better than I could in low light and was safe, but it was particularly impressive due to how smooth and humanlike it was. I have friends who drove it more recently and said it has improved even further. XPENG MONA L03 in Munich Of course, driving in Germany is more rules-based and can be faster, while driving in China can seem like an abstract artform in comparison. It will be interesting to see how the system works in Germany, as well as Southern European cities like Athens that have more scooters and fewer rules. XPENG MONA L03 in Munich Overall, the MONA L03 seems like an attractive from here in New York. However, I am lucky enough to be going to the launch this week in Munich. I’ll be looking at details and finishes. I’ll also be paying attention to materials and how the different surfaces feel. At 6’ tall, I’ll be seeing how I fit in the front and back. The car was designed for young people, who make up more of the car market in China, but I’ll see how it appeals to me, being closer in age to many new car buyers in the West. XPENG MONA L03 in Munich XPENG is being bold by launching the MONA L03 globally and bringing its intelligent driving system to global markets once recently approved regulations go into effect at the end of the year. Other Chinese automakers have been holding back, bringing previous generation vehicles that lack their latest technology to other markets. XPENG is bringing their best technology to the world. That will provide a potentially disruptive model to existing competitors, as well as to other Chinese brands that have taken a more cautious approach. XPENG MONA L03 in Munich I’ll also be attending a few presentations while I am there and asking a lot of questions. As I learn more, I’ll ask more questions and look deeper. But what questions do you have? Anything you would like me to investigate or ask? Anything you would like to see in more detail? Let me know in the comments. XPENG MONA L03 in Munich