In 24 Hours, Xiaomi Gave a Lesson to Tesla

To mark the launch of its first electric SUV, Xiaomi sets a new world endurance record.

To cement in automotive history the debut of its electric SUV, Xiaomi undertook an endurance challenge inspired by the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the ultimate reference in performance and reliability. The result? A record of 3,944 kilometers traveled in two full laps, at an average speed of 164.33 km/h. Not a leisurely eco-ride, but rather a true endurance test, conducted at a sustained pace.

This average speed of 164 km/h dispels any notion of driving optimized for consumption. It was a real-world test aimed at assessing the power, endurance, charging speed, and thermal management of the vehicle under challenging conditions. This test was officially validated by the China Automotive Technology & Research Center, ensuring the rigor of the performance.

Range and ultra-fast charging

To maintain such a pace without significant interruption, the YU7 Max chosen for the exercise relied on its very high-capacity battery (up to 760 km of range in the Chinese CLTC cycle) and blazing fast charging capabilities. In simple terms, a few well-timed stops were sufficient for quick recharging and to get back on the road, without breaking the momentum. Thus, Xiaomi demonstrates that with a good infrastructure and a well-designed vehicle, the usual limits of electric vehicles can be largely pushed back.

With this test, Xiaomi is not just making a splash; the brand is sending a strong message. It is also inviting other manufacturers to take on the challenge, in a competitive spirit it describes as “healthy.” And rightly so, as the more these tests become widespread, the more electric vehicles progress, benefiting all drivers.

In light of this demonstration, one question arises. Will Tesla, the self-proclaimed leader in electric mobility, dare to take up the gauntlet? If Elon Musk’s firm wants to solidify its dominant position, it will need to prove that it remains the benchmark, even on the demanding terrain of high-performance endurance. So far, no Tesla model has been put to the test in such a rigorous format.

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