First Look: Xiaomi's bold venture into electric vehicles with the SU7 sedan

The company plans to produce its branded vehicles through a collaboration with a unit of the state-owned BAIC Group, boasting an impressive annual capacity of 200,000 vehicles in a Beijing factory.

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Edited By: Khushboo Joshi
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In a groundbreaking move, Chinese tech giant Xiaomi has officially entered the electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of its highly anticipated SU7 sedan. Unveiled on December 28, the SU7 not only marks Xiaomi's foray into the world of automobiles but also signals its ambitious aim to become one of the top five automakers globally. 

Let's take a closer look at this innovative venture and what sets the SU7 apart in the rapidly evolving electric car landscape.

Xiaomi's CEO, Lei Jun, didn't hold back in expressing the company's grand vision for its automotive venture. Lei envisions creating "a dream car comparable to Porsche and Tesla" and aims to secure a position among the world's top automakers within the next 15 to 20 years. This ambitious goal is backed by a substantial investment of US$10 billion in the automotive sector over the next decade, showcasing Xiaomi's commitment to diversify beyond its core smartphone business.

At the launch event in Beijing, Lei highlighted the autonomous driving capabilities of Xiaomi cars, emphasising their position at the forefront of the industry. The company plans to produce its branded vehicles through a collaboration with a unit of the state-owned BAIC Group, boasting an impressive annual capacity of 200,000 vehicles in a Beijing factory.

Design aesthetics of the Xiaomi SU7

The visual appeal of the SU7 is striking, with a sporty design reminiscent of the Porsche Taycan. The Aqua Blue exterior colour theme adds a touch of luxury, coupled with stylish alloy wheels that enhance the overall aesthetics. The SU7, with four doors and dimensions of 4,997 mm in length, 1,963 mm in width, and a height of up to 1,455 mm, positions itself as a spacious and visually appealing electric sedan.

Innovative battery technology

Xiaomi doesn't just stop at the exterior; it's pushing boundaries in battery technology too. The SU7 will be offered in two configurations, differing in energy storage capacity. The base model features a 73.6 kWh battery pack, while the premium variant boasts a larger 101 kWh battery pack. Xiaomi's CTB (Cell-to-Body) technology is a game-changer, seamlessly integrating the battery into the vehicle, enhancing structural rigidity, and creating a more spacious cabin by eliminating the traditional floor.

Impressive range and future plans

According to Xiaomi, the SU7 is expected to achieve an outstanding range of up to 800 kilometers on a single charge. Looking ahead, Xiaomi plans to introduce the V8 model in 2025, equipped with a larger 150 kWh battery pack, promising an impressive 1,200-kilometer range. This move positions Xiaomi as a major player in the EV market, catering to diverse consumer needs and preferences.

Performance expectations

The Xiaomi SU7 doesn't just focus on range and design; it aims to match the performance levels of some of the fastest electric vehicles globally. With a minimum of 21,000 rotations per minute (RPM), the SU7 guarantees top-tier performance. The two motor variants, V6 and V6S, offer power outputs ranging from 299 hp to 374 hp, with peak torque reaching up to 635 Nm. The SU7 showcases its prowess with lower variants reaching a top speed of 210 kmph, while the higher-end models boast an impressive 265 kmph.

Nonetheless, Xiaomi's bold vision and commitment to automotive excellence set the stage for an electrifying future, not just for the company but for the entire automotive industry.

When will the Xiaomi SU7 be available for purchase?
Xiaomi has not provided an exact release date, but the SU7 is expected to hit the market in the coming months.
What is the anticipated starting price of the Xiaomi SU7?
Xiaomi has not disclosed the pricing details yet, but it aims to offer competitive pricing in the electric vehicle market.
What are Xiaomi's future plans in the electric vehicle sector?
Xiaomi plans to introduce the V8 model in 2025, featuring a larger 150 kWh battery pack and an impressive 1,200-kilometer range.