Chinese Smartphone Maker Unveils Performance BEV

Chinese smartphone giant Xiaomi unveils the SU7, the first of its planned battery-electric vehicles.

The company uses the model’s global debut to stress that it intends to join the ranks of the top five global automakers. Its sports-focused sedan, whose title is short for Speed Ultra, goes head-to-head with BEVs from Tesla and Porsche against which it claims to be faster-accelerating with more power.

It will start selling in its domestic market in two versions with the range-topping Xiaomi SU7 Max boasting a 0-to-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint time of just 2.78 seconds with a top speed of 164 mph (264 km/h). This version uses dual electric motors to provide all-wheel drive and boasts a top power output of 663 hp and maximum torque of 618 lb.-ft. (838 Nm), while claiming total range on a single charge of more than 497 miles (800 km). By comparison, Tesla's Model S has a claimed range of up to 403 miles (649 Nm).

Reuters reports that Xiaomi chief executive Lei Jun chose one of China's coldest Decembers on record for the launch as a way of highlighting the car’s claimed fast-charging capabilities in low temperatures. It is equipped with technology allowing it to recognize obstacles under challenging conditions such as falling snow.

The SU7 is also expected to appeal to customers because of its shared operating system with Xiaomi's phones and other electronic devices. Owners will have access to the company's existing portfolio of mobile apps through on-board infotainment systems.

Jun says at the unveiling: “By working hard over the next 15 to 20 years, we will become one of the world's top five automakers, striving to lift China's overall automobile industry.” Pricing has yet to be announced but Jun says the price tag would “be a bit high but one that will have everyone think is justified.”