Chinese smartphone manufacturer Xiaomi has entered the automotive industry with the unveiling of its inaugural electric vehicle, the SU7. Positioned as a four-door sedan, the SU7 aims to make a mark in the automotive world with a focus on high-speed performance, as denoted by the “SU,” standing for “Speed Ultra.”
While Xiaomi may not be a household name in the United States, the company holds a notable position as one of the top five smartphone makers globally. Although the specifics of Xiaomi’s global plans for the SU7 remain vague, the company expresses intentions to sell it on a global scale, which could eventually mean that it makes it to our shores in the U.S.
The SU7 is built upon Xiaomi’s proprietary platform called “Modena,” designed to accommodate various battery and motor configurations. The vehicle offers multiple setups, with the base model featuring a single electric motor capable of generating 294 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, enabling a 0-62 mph acceleration in 5.3 seconds. Opting for the dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) version increases the power to an impressive 664 horsepower and 614 pound-feet of torque, resulting in a rapid 0-62 mph time of just 2.8 seconds. Xiaomi cites the Porsche Taycan Turbo as a performance benchmark and draws inspiration from the Tesla Model S in terms of technology.
In terms of range, Xiaomi provides figures based on the China Light Duty Test Cycle, known for producing optimistic estimates. The base rear-wheel-drive (RWD) model claims a range of 415 miles, while the AWD dual-motor version boasts an impressive 497 miles on a full charge. However, it’s noted that these figures may be considerably lower when tested under the EPA cycle.
The SU7’s aerodynamic design, crafted by Sawyer Li, a former BMW designer, incorporates elements reminiscent of the Porsche Taycan and Tesla Model 3. While exterior photos showcase the vehicle in Aqua Blue, Mineral Gray, and Verdant Green, interior details remain somewhat elusive. A single darkened image provided by Xiaomi hints at a sizable central infotainment system, a small digital instrument cluster, a traditionally shaped steering wheel, toggles on the center console, and a potential head-up display on the windshield.
Xiaomi anticipates the SU7 to hit the Chinese market in the coming months, although pricing details are yet to be disclosed. As Xiaomi makes its debut in the automotive sector, the SU7’s combination of performance, design, and electric range positions it as a notable contender in the evolving landscape of electric vehicles.
