August 17, 2024
Xiaomi, a company renowned for its cutting-edge smartphones, is making waves in the electric vehicle (EV) market with the announcement of the SU7 Ultra, a super-fast variant of its SU7 sedan. This new model, featuring an astonishing 1,548 horsepower and a mind-blowing 0 to 60 MPH acceleration time of under 2 seconds, positions Xiaomi as a serious contender in the high-performance EV segment, challenging even hypercars.
Under the leadership of CEO Lei Jun, Xiaomi is set to compete with traditional automotive giants, particularly with an eye on dominating the legendary Nürburgring track. What makes the SU7 Ultra even more compelling is that it won’t remain just a one-off prototype. Xiaomi has confirmed that a production version of this super sedan will soon be available on Chinese roads.
In a recent announcement, Lei Jun stated that the car is scheduled to enter production in the first half of 2025. While certain adjustments will be made to control production costs—such as forgoing a full carbon fiber body—the SU7 Ultra will retain its aggressive design, including a large spoiler and wide hunches. These features not only enhance the car’s aesthetics but also improve its aerodynamic performance.
The SU7 Ultra’s powertrain is among its most impressive aspects, featuring a tri-motor setup and a racing-oriented battery pack. This combination promises exhilarating performance, highlighting Xiaomi’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of EV technology. The production version will be available in two trims: a standard version and a track-oriented version, giving buyers the option to choose based on their driving preferences. Despite its high performance, Lei Jun assures that the SU7 Ultra will be priced competitively, making high-performance electric driving more accessible than ever.
Xiaomi’s rapid progression from concept to production intent is particularly noteworthy. Within just a week of the announcement, the company has outlined a clear and realistic plan for bringing its halo car to market. This contrasts sharply with other manufacturers who have made bold promises about EV sports cars only to delay or cancel their plans. For example, Toyota teased a mid-motor vehicle called the FT-Se in October, but production isn’t expected until at least 2026. Similarly, Tesla’s follow-up to the Roadster, initially unveiled in 2017, has yet to hit showrooms, with the prototype famously launched into space by Elon Musk instead.
Xiaomi’s ability to swiftly move from concept to production is not unique in China. Le Auto’s L6 PHEV crossover, for example, was ready for sale just days after its debut at the Beijing Auto Show. Similarly, the Zeekr X Prototype, showcased at the same event, was recently unveiled in production-ready form. This quick pace of innovation and execution underscores the competitive advantage of Chinese automakers in the rapidly evolving automotive landscape.
However, Xiaomi’s bold move raises questions about the practicality and safety of putting a 1,500-horsepower car in the hands of the general public. While more power is undeniably appealing to enthusiasts, there are concerns about the risks associated with such high-performance vehicles. Videos on Chinese social media already show buyers struggling to control the standard SU7, which produces around 500 horsepower, leading to crashes and accidents. The prospect of even more powerful versions like the SU7 Ultra being driven by inexperienced drivers is indeed daunting.
Moreover, the relatively affordable pricing of the SU7 Ultra could lead to a higher number of these cars on the road, potentially increasing the chances of accidents caused by drivers unprepared for such immense power. For prospective buyers in China, the message is clear: exercise caution and respect the capabilities of these powerful machines. The SU7 Ultra represents an exciting leap forward in electric vehicle technology, but it also demands responsible ownership and driving.