Chinese Smartphone Company Xiaomi Previews First Electric Vehicle
After years of speculation about Apple entering the electric vehicle market, Chinese smartphone company Xiaomi has taken the lead by unveiling its first production EV. The Xiaomi SU7 sedan, although heavily influenced by other car designs, presents an opportunity for the brand to make a mark in the industry.
Derivative Chinese Automotive Designs
Chinese automotive designs have often been accused of being derivative, and the Xiaomi SU7 is no exception. Its front end resembles the McLaren 750 S, while the back takes inspiration from the Porsche Panamera. However, this is not uncommon in the industry, as seen with previous models like the Ford Fusion.
Xiaomi’s First All-Electric Vehicle
The Xiaomi SU7 marks the company’s entry into the electric vehicle market. While Foxconn had previously ventured into EVs through its involvement with Lordstown Motor, their partnership ended with bankruptcy. In contrast, Xiaomi is moving full speed ahead with its EV plans.
Government License and Leaked Information
Xiaomi has already applied for the necessary government license to sell the SU7 in China. Details published by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) have resulted in leaked information about the vehicle. It is expected to be contract-manufactured by Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co. Ltd (BAIC).
Specifications and Powertrain
The Xiaomi SU7 will have dimensions similar to popular electric models like the Tesla Model S, Porsche Taycan, and Lucid Air. It will be approximately 197 inches long, 77 inches wide, and 57 inches tall. The powertrain options include a rear-wheel-drive model with 295 horsepower and an all-wheel-drive model with around 660 horsepower. The top speed is estimated to be 164 miles per hour, and battery packs will be supplied by BYD and CATL.
Xiaomi’s HyperOS and Advanced Features
The Xiaomi SU7 will feature Xiaomi’s proprietary HyperOS as its user interface, providing a familiar experience for customers already using Xiaomi mobile devices. The car will also have an integrated toll-paying feature and advanced smartphone integration. Exterior cameras, including a frontal sensor array on the roof, will likely support advanced driving features and camera-based safety systems.
Production and Trim Options
Production of the Xiaomi SU7 is scheduled to begin next month at BAIC’s Beijing assembly plant. The limited “Founders Edition” will likely be the first to be released, followed by the SU7, SU7 Pro, and SU7 Max with higher-trim options featuring an adaptive rear wing and luxurious interiors.
[Images: MIIT]
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