** Hong Kong shares of EV maker Xpeng soar as much as 20% to HK$60; set for biggest one-day pct rise since July 2023
** Stock hits highest since Jan. 2
** Co launches its first AI-powered P7+ sedan starting at 186,800 yuan ($26,134.65), a day after unveiling its extended-range hybrid technology
** Bets on a pivot to more cost-competitive products than pure EVs to boost sales
** Nomura retains "neutral"; says co at the forefront of AI related auto/smart driving/robotics tech advancement, which may help it deliver healthy growth
** Adds if P7+ starting price is around CNY185k or below, "Xpeng could enjoy a strong wave of demand"
** Stock up 4.5% YTD
($1 = 7.1476 Chinese yuan renminbi)
(Reporting by Donny Kwok)
((donny.kwok@thomsonreuters.com))