Xiaomi, another rival on Tesla’s path

The electronics manufacturer Xiaomi aims to join the global Top 5 within 15 years in the electric car market.

Moving from cars to smartphones, Tesla is considering the leap. A way to give its rivals a run for their money. But without expertise in the field, it’s challenging. Equally difficult is the reverse movement from smartphones to electric cars. Apple thought about it in the mid-2010s before changing its mind.

Xiaomi did not hesitate and has officially taken the plunge. Its first car, the large sedan SU7, has been on sale since December 28, 2023. Symbolically, this tech leader didn’t want to wait until 2024.

The demonstration of strength had to be total. Thus, the technical sheet is dizzying: 101 kWh battery, 825-volt technology, 475 kW power (645 horsepower), 0 to 100 km/h in 2″78 seconds, and a top speed of 265 km/h. Just a first attempt…

Xiaomi revealed that this SU7 sedan required an investment of 1.4 billion dollars. Unveiled last July, the car is already in production. A record for a launch.

A more “reasonable” model will open the range, with a 75 kWh battery and 220 kW power (298 horsepower). The Chinese range is announced at 668 km, approximately 500 km in WLTP cycle in Europe. According to Xiaomi, the air penetration coefficient is exceptional: 0.195 cd.

The front features a 109-liter trunk, double the size of a Tesla Model 3. The rear trunk adds an additional 517 liters.

Prices are still under consideration, but Xiaomi aims to make a strong impression, similar to its entry into the smartphone market. To establish a foothold, a strong argument is needed. Price is often the primary trigger for purchase…

In any case, this is very bad news for Tesla, which now faces a new competitor nibbling away market share in China… and soon worldwide.

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