Xiaomi’s EV Makes Olympic-Sized Splash in Paris

Xiaomi, the Chinese smartphone giant, is making waves in the electric vehicle (EV) market, showcasing its first electric car, the SU7, during the Paris Olympic Games. As reported by 彭博社, this bold move marks a significant step in the company’s ambitious $10 billion plan to become a major player in the global EV industry.

From Smartphones to Sedans: Xiaomi’s EV Ambitions

Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun took the opportunity to display the SU7 electric sedan to local staff and select customers in Paris. The car has been a hit in China since its March launch, with sales on track to meet the company’s initial 100,000-unit goal by November.

“Our goal is to become one of the top five global players,” Lei stated in a video, adding, “So we will definitely launch it globally at the right time.”

Putting the Pedal to the Metal

To further showcase its automotive prowess, Xiaomi set up a pit garage at Germany’s renowned Nürburgring race track. Lei himself took a lap in an SU7 Ultra prototype, documenting the experience on social media.

“Taking on such a reputable course is the first step toward Xiaomi’s future success in carmaking,” Lei posted on X.

Charging Ahead in a Challenging Market

Xiaomi’s optimism stands out in an industry facing headwinds. While established automakers like Porsche and General Motors are scaling back EV sales targets, and even Apple has abandoned its EV efforts, Xiaomi is pushing forward.

The SU7, priced starting at 215,900 yuan ($30,000), is targeting the mass market. Back in China, Xiaomi has begun construction on the second phase of its Beijing EV plant to meet demand and produce new models, including an SUV to rival Tesla’s Model Y.

Navigating Global Roadblocks

Despite the enthusiasm, Xiaomi faces potential hurdles in its global expansion. The European Commission has imposed additional provisional tariffs of up to 38% on Chinese-made EVs, while the US has vowed to quadruple duties to more than 100%. These trade barriers could significantly impact Xiaomi’s plans for international markets.

EVXL’s Take

Xiaomi’s entry into the EV market with the SU7 represents a bold move in an increasingly competitive industry. As we’ve seen with Tesla’s market challenges, even established EV makers are facing hurdles in today’s market. However, Xiaomi’s success in the smartphone industry and its aggressive approach to EV development suggest it could be a formidable competitor in the years to come. The company’s ability to navigate international trade barriers and maintain its momentum in China will be crucial factors in realizing its global EV ambitions.

Photo courtesy of Lei Jun