From Smartphones to Smart Cars: How This Tech Giant Created a Game-Changing Electric Vehicle

Nov 21, 2024

From smartphones to smart home devices, Xiaomi has established itself as a tech giant that plays in nearly every consumer electronics category. Now, they are stepping into the world of electric vehicles (EVs), gearing up to compete with automotive powerhouses like Tesla, Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.

But why would Xiaomi enter this space? The answer lies in the company's track record of making almost anything—and making it better than what’s already on the market. Take their 3D printers, for example. While most 3D printers rely on filament, Xiaomi’s innovation uses liquid resin, a leap forward in technology. With this kind of track record, it’s not entirely surprising that the tech brand is venturing into electric vehicles (EVs)—perhaps offering us something more than we expect.

Moreover, Xiaomi's move into the car industry is not entirely unprecedented. Apple has long been rumoured to be working on its own EV, which further underscores the growing trend of tech companies entering the automotive sector. After all, electric vehicles are powered by advanced tech, and who better to develop these next-generation vehicles than a company already steeped in technological innovation?

Xiaomi’s Vision for EVs

Xiaomi has laid out an ambitious vision for its electric vehicles, starting with its flagship model, the Xiaomi SU7. This EV is not just a car but a smart device on wheels, fully integrated into Xiaomi’s broader ecosystem. The company plans to use its vast experience with IoT and AI to ensure that its vehicles are both user-friendly and highly advanced, offering a range of features including real-time data analytics, voice control, and smart assistant capabilities.

In addition to the use of advanced technologies, Xiaomi’s EVs are designed to be accessible. Xiaomi has promised a competitive pricing strategy, making its cars more affordable compared to rivals like Tesla, while still offering high performance and innovative features. The SU7, for example, boasts impressive specifications, including a long driving range, ultra-fast charging, and an advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) powered by Nvidia chips.

It’s Not Far-Fetched To Say Xiaomi Will Succeed

What differentiates Xiaomi from other tech giants like Tesla or Apple is its approach to ecosystem integration. While Tesla focuses on building an isolated ecosystem centred around its vehicles, Xiaomi leverages its vast network of connected devices—from smartphones to home automation—creating a seamless user experience. The SU7, for example, integrates effortlessly with Xiaomi’s existing Mi Home platform, allowing users to control their vehicle’s functions using their smartphones, smartwatches, or even voice commands.

Xiaomi’s pricing strategy is another standout feature. The SU7 is available in multiple variants, making it accessible to a broader range of consumers. From the standard model to the high-performance Ultra version, Xiaomi’s cars are designed to meet the needs of different buyers, offering both affordability and luxury.

We can also rely on them to produce high quality panels and bodywork, as Xiaomi’s experience with hardware manufacturing gives it a unique edge. The company has established extensive expertise in the production of consumer electronics, including batteries, which will be critical in the EV market. The inclusion of ultra-fast charging and long battery life places Xiaomi’s offerings on par with more established competitors.

Xiaomi SU7

At the moment, Xiaomi has three variants on sale, and the naming where they remind us that they are a phone company first. They offer the standard SU7, the SU7 Pro, the SU7 Max, and they recently unveiled a track-focused SU7 Ultra which is coming soon.

SU7 Standard:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD).
Powered by a 220 kW motor with 400 Nm torque.
73.6 kWh battery, offering a 700 km (CLTC) range.
0-100 km/h in 5.28 seconds.
Priced from 215,900 yuan (approx. R540,000).

SU7 Pro:

Larger 94.3 kWh CATL battery, with an 830 km (CLTC) range.
Upgraded to an 800V charging system for faster recharging.
Features improved driver-assistance systems.
Priced from 245,900 yuan (approx. R616,000).

SU7 Max:

Dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) with 495 kW power and 838 Nm torque.
101 kWh CATL Qilin battery, 800 km range.
0-100 km/h in 2.78 seconds and a top speed of 265 km/h.
Advanced autonomous driving features with lidar integration
Priced from 299,900 yuan (approx. R750,500)

SU7 Ultra:

Triple-motor system producing 1,330 kW power, offering significant power to its four wheels.
897V Kirin 2 battery, 620 km range
0-100 km/h in 1.97 seconds and a top speed of 350 km/h
Aggressive aerodynamic design with carbon fibre body panels to enhance downforce and reduce weight. Large aero scoops and massive rear wing
Priced from 814,900 yuan (approx. R2,040,500)

The Future of Xiaomi’s Automotive Ambitions

Looking to the future, Xiaomi plans to expand its lineup with new models. The company is expected to launch an SUV model by 2026, diversifying its product offerings beyond the current sedan-style SU7. This will help Xiaomi tap into the growing demand for SUVs and electric crossovers, which have become increasingly popular worldwide.

Xiaomi’s future in the automotive world looks promising, but it won’t be without challenges. The company plans to expand its lineup, potentially launching an SUV by 2026, to tap into the growing market for electric crossovers. However, competing with established automotive giants will require Xiaomi to build trust with consumers and meet global regulatory standards.