On May 24, 2025, Xiaomi, the tech giant known for its smartphones, revealed its latest electric vehicle, the YU7—an electric SUV designed to compete directly with the Tesla Model Y. Boasting a sleek design reminiscent of the Ferrari Purosangue and a range of up to 519 miles, the YU7 positions itself as a formidable player in the EV market, exclusively launching in China this July.

YU7 Variants and Performance Specs

The YU7 comes in three versions, each tailored for different drivers in the Chinese market. The base model, dubbed the Standard, features a single motor driving the rear wheels, delivering 316 horsepower with a 96.3 kWh battery for a range of 519 miles under China’s CLTC standards.

The mid-tier Pro model upgrades to dual motors for all-wheel drive, offering 489 horsepower and a range of 479 miles, with a 0-62 mph acceleration time of 4.27 seconds. The top-tier YU7 Max also has dual motors, producing 681 horsepower, a 101.7 kWh battery, a range of 472 miles, and a blistering 0-62 mph time of 3.23 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 155 mph.

Xiaomi Unveils Yu7 Electric Suv To Rival Tesla Model Y With Impressive Range And Power

Xiaomi claims the YU7’s 800-volt architecture enables rapid charging, filling the battery from 10% to 80% in just 12 minutes, or adding 385 miles of range in 15 minutes. This capability could set a new benchmark for EV charging speeds, addressing a key concern for EV owners.

Advanced Technology and Interior Features

The YU7 integrates cutting-edge technology, including a standard-fit LiDAR system powered by NVIDIA Drive AGX Thor, a computing platform Xiaomi says can detect pedestrians up to 328 feet (100 meters) ahead, with upgraded radar extending that to 656 feet (200 meters). This driver assistance system enhances safety and aligns with the growing trend of advanced autonomous driving features in EVs.

Inside, the YU7 offers a digital display spanning the width of the dashboard, a large central touchscreen for the infotainment system, and two additional screens for rear passengers. A separate rear touchscreen controls the climate system, elevating comfort for all occupants. These features reflect Xiaomi’s focus on blending luxury with functionality, appealing to tech-savvy EV enthusiasts.

Industry Impact and Tesla Competition

Xiaomi’s entry into the EV market is gaining momentum. Following the success of its SU7 saloon, which sold 200,000 units and competes with the Porsche Taycan, the YU7 targets the Tesla Model Y, which offers a WLTP range of up to 387 miles. The YU7’s CLTC range of 519 miles surpasses Tesla’s, though CLTC figures often exceed WLTP and EPA estimates used in Europe and the U.S., respectively. If the YU7 achieves a competitive EPA range, it could challenge Tesla’s dominance in the electric SUV segment.

Set to launch in July 2025, the YU7 starts at an estimated £35,000, or roughly $44,500 USD based on current exchange rates. This pricing undercuts many premium EVs, potentially pressuring competitors to adjust their strategies. However, its China-only availability limits its immediate global impact, though Xiaomi’s rapid expansion in the EV space suggests broader ambitions.

What This Means for EV Enthusiasts

For EV owners and enthusiasts, the YU7 highlights the accelerating innovation in the electric SUV market. Its combination of long range, rapid charging, and advanced driver assistance systems addresses key pain points like range anxiety and safety. While currently limited to China, Xiaomi’s aggressive push into EVs could signal more competition and better options for consumers worldwide, driving the industry toward more accessible, high-performance electric vehicles.