Xiaomi made headlines earlier this year when it unveiled its first electric vehicle (EV) and quickly became one of the most talked-about cars in China and beyond. The company reported impressive sales of over 75,000 units within the first month of its release, showcasing the immense popularity and potential of Xiaomi in the automotive industry. Now, Xiaomi is looking to steal the spotlight once again with the introduction of a tri-motor prototype that has the potential to become one of the fastest electric vehicles on the market.
The standard model, known as the SU7, is currently a rear-wheel drive vehicle equipped with a 74kWh battery that offers a range of approximately 434 miles on a single charge. It boasts a respectable acceleration time of 0-62mph in just 5.3 seconds. Additionally, Xiaomi also offers a Max version in China, which features a larger 101kWh battery, twin motors, and an impressive acceleration time of 0-62mph in 2.8 seconds.
To achieve even greater power and performance, Xiaomi has developed a tri-motor prototype called the SU7 Ultra. This high-performance vehicle is fitted with two larger motors, aptly named V8S, which are enhanced versions of Xiaomi’s existing technology. The prototype also features one of the original V6S units. Although details about the battery packs are scarce, it is speculated that the SU7 Ultra draws energy from the same 101kWh pack as the Max version.
The result is a race-ready vehicle with a staggering 1,526 horsepower, capable of reaching a top speed of 217mph. Xiaomi has clearly designed the SU7 Ultra with the track in mind. It incorporates six-piston AP Racing calipers, massive ventilated discs, and enhanced regenerative braking, providing up to 2.36G of stopping power. The vehicle also features wider wheel arches, a large rear wing for increased downforce, and a lower ride height for improved handling and aerodynamics.
In terms of weight, Xiaomi is aiming for a target of 1,900kg for the SU7 Ultra, which would make it lighter than high-performance EVs such as the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT and Tesla Model S Plaid. It is evident that Xiaomi is benchmarking its prototype against these established players in the industry.
Excitingly, Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun recently announced that the SU7 Ultra prototype will be tested on the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife later this year. This move indicates Xiaomi’s ambition to challenge records set by renowned EVs like the Taycan Turbo GT. By entering such a prestigious race circuit, Xiaomi is demonstrating its serious intent to compete with the most advanced Western EV manufacturers.
In its domestic market of China, the Xiaomi SU7 has been a remarkable success, offering a competitive price of 215,900 yuan (approximately $30,500 / £23,000 / AU$45,000) for the standard version. However, the company has not indicated any plans to expand sales outside of China. The fact that Xiaomi is venturing onto Europe’s racetracks with a high-performance halo model might suggest its desire to enter the European market and directly challenge Western automakers.
Xiaomi’s decision to enter the EV market is a bold move that showcases the company’s ambition and determination to diversify its business. As a technology giant, Xiaomi has excelled in the smartphone industry, becoming one of the largest smartphone manufacturers in the world. Now, with its foray into electric vehicles, Xiaomi is tapping into the growing demand for sustainable transportation and aiming to establish itself as a major player in the automotive sector.
With its reputation for innovation, Xiaomi has the potential to disrupt the EV market and present formidable competition to established brands like Porsche and Tesla. By combining cutting-edge technology, impressive performance, and competitive pricing, Xiaomi is positioning itself as a serious contender in the industry. As electric vehicles continue to gain popularity worldwide, Xiaomi’s entry into this market could have significant implications for the future of sustainable transportation.
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