Xiaomi Blows the Competition Away with Its Tesla Model Y Killer

The Chinese giant Xiaomi has triggered a real tsunami with the launch of its second electric vehicle, the YU7.

In just three minutes after the pre-orders opened Thursday evening, more than 200,000 orders were recorded on Xiaomi’s dedicated platform. A resounding success for the one who proclaims himself a “Tesla killer.”

Of course, there are always doubts regarding the transformation of these pre-orders into firm orders. Remember the million Cybertrucks ordered, which ultimately turned into tens of thousands actually sold. Unlike other symbolic reservation campaigns, Xiaomi claims these are “real” orders, accompanied by a non-refundable deposit of 5,000 Yuan, or about 600 euros. A much stronger proof of commitment than the mass pre-orders of some competitors, but despite that, the conversion will not be 100% anyway. A pre-order is in no way a contract, and can therefore be legally canceled.

Xiaomi wants to do everything better

So let’s get back to this Tesla killer status. During the presentation of the YU7, CEO Lei Jun did not hesitate to directly compare his new SUV to the market’s benchmark, the Model Y. By emphasizing acoustic comfort, energy efficiency, and the natural air conditioning provided by the electrochromatic roof, Xiaomi puts forward concrete and measurable arguments.

The silence onboard was particularly highlighted, thanks to double-glazed acoustic windows, optimized suspension, and an active noise cancellation system. An initial handling confirmed this remarkable comfort.

But it is, of course, in terms of pricing that Xiaomi strikes the hardest. The entry-level YU7 is priced at 253,500 Yuan in China, about 28,000 euros, which is 1,200 euros less than the equivalent Model Y while offering an extra 200 km of range. The Pro and Max versions also show significant price differences compared to the Model Y Long Range and Performance, offering similar, if not superior, specifications.

Just one year after launching its first vehicle, the SU7, Xiaomi shows fierce ambition in electromobility. Production of the YU7 is already underway, with immediate deliveries based on available configurations. With such a start, Xiaomi is no longer content to imitate Tesla. The Chinese manufacturer now seems determined to beat the American company on its own turf.

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