XPeng Inc. (XPEV) is taking its electric vehicle operation global, and Qatar is the latest stop on that journey. Shares rose Friday after the Chinese EV maker unveiled expansion plans that stretch from the Middle East to Africa and Southeast Asia.

The company held a brand launch event in Doha, Qatar, where it introduced its G9 and G6 sport utility vehicles to the local market. XPeng also announced plans to bring its P7+ sedan to Qatar soon, giving customers a fuller lineup to choose from.

Beyond Four Wheels

Here's where things get interesting: XPeng didn't just showcase regular electric vehicles. The company also presented products from Aridge, its flying car subsidiary, signaling ambitions that go well beyond traditional automobiles. It's a reminder that Chinese EV makers are thinking about mobility in broader terms than just what drives on roads.

The Qatar launch represents more than a single market entry. Company executives described the move as laying groundwork for deeper expansion throughout the Gulf region and into African markets. XPeng is clearly betting on these regions as growth opportunities while competition intensifies back home in China.

Building Out the Network

XPeng's expansion strategy involves partnering with established local distributors. The company signed a strategic partnership on December 16 with Mauritian distributor Axess Limited to expand its sales and service network in Eastern Africa. Earlier this year, XPeng named Qatar's Pioneer Motors, a subsidiary of the Almana Group, as its exclusive distributor for the country.

But XPeng isn't just expanding where it sells cars. The company is also expanding where it builds them. XPeng is moving forward with plans to start EV production in Malaysia, with a new manufacturing project in Malacca slated for mass production in 2026. The company has partnered with EP Manufacturing Berhad to combine XPeng's smart EV technology with local manufacturing expertise, targeting demand in Malaysia and the broader ASEAN region.

The Malaysian facility will be XPeng's third localized production site worldwide and its second in Asia-Pacific, complementing expanded operations in Europe. It's the kind of manufacturing footprint you need when you're serious about becoming a global player rather than just a Chinese export story.

XPeng shares were up 7.79% at $21.09 at the time of publication on Friday.