Chinese electronics giant Xiaomi has officially launched its much-anticipated YU7 electric SUV in China, building on the success of its SU7 electric sedan. Priced competitively against Tesla’s Model Y, the YU7 marks Xiaomi’s bold entry into the high-end electric mobility segment, showcasing cutting-edge specs, expansive range, and Tesla-busting value.
Launch Highlights & Market Excitement
Xiaomi generated overwhelming interest from consumers:
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Over 200,000 pre-orders within 3 minutes and nearly 300,000 in the first hour .
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Stock prices surged over 8% in Hong Kong after the launch .
This staggering demand confirms Xiaomi’s growing reputation as a serious player in the EV sector.
Pricing Strategy & Trims
The YU7 is available in three trims:
| Variant | Drivetrain | Price (CNY) | Approx. USD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | RWD | 253,500 | $35,360 |
| Pro | AWD | 279,900 | $38,700 |
| Max | AWD (Max) | 329,900 | $45,600 |
Starting at 10,000 yuan (~4%) below Tesla’s Model Y, the YU7 undercuts its main rival on price while offering superior specs .
Impressive Specs & Driving Range
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Battery & Range:
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Standard/Pro: 96.3 kWh (LFP) with up to 835 km (CLTC)
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Max: 101.7 kWh (NMC), ~760 km CLTC
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Performance:
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Standard: 315 bhp, 0–100 km/h in 5.9 s
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Pro: 489 bhp, 4.27 s
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Max: 690 bhp, blistering 3.23 s sprint
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Charging Architecture: Advanced 800V SiC system, 5.2 C fast charging—0–80% in ~12 minutes .
These specs not only surpass Tesla’s range but also deliver hypercar-level acceleration in the Max trim.
Design, Comfort & Cabin Tech
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Exterior: Sporty fastback-silhouette, aerodynamic body (Cd 0.245), flush door handles, and sleek LED lighting .
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Interior:
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Luxurious finishes: Nappa leather, Alcantara steering
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Tech-rich cabin: 1.1 m panoramic screen + rear display
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Advanced HUD, LiDAR-assisted ADAS, ambient lighting .
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Cargo space: 678 L expandible to 1,758 L, plus clever storage solutions .
YU7 vs Model Y: A New Tesla Challenger
Xiaomi positions YU7 as the “Model Y killer”—and early signals support that claim:
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Cheaper pricing (~35,000 USD) than Tesla’s base version .
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Better range—835 km vs Tesla’s 719 km CLTC .
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Faster acceleration, especially in Max variant’s 3.23 s sprint .
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Cohesive ecosystem synergy with Xiaomi’s devices and smart-home ecosystem .
This combination gives Xiaomi a strategic edge over Tesla, especially in the cost-sensitive Chinese market .
Why YU7 Is a Game Changer for Xiaomi
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It’s Xiaomi’s second EV, following the SU7 sedan which already outsold Tesla’s Model 3 in China .
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Strategic partnerships (BYD, GAC, Zhengzhou Nissan) aim to expand its EV capabilities .
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Xiaomi aims to deliver 350,000 EVs in 2025, targeting profitability in H2 2025.
Strong bookings (240,000+ in 18 hours) and soaring stock prices showcase high investor confidence .
What Lies Ahead for Global Expansion
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Deliveries start within weeks in China; exports planned after domestic ramp-up .
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International launches expected in 2025, targeting Europe and India.
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The YU7’s performance may force Tesla’s hand—potential price cuts or incentives on Model Y.
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Xiaomi aims to scale its smart mobility ecosystem, from smart tracks to autonomous driving, challenging Tesla’s dominance.
The Xiaomi YU7 has arrived as a formidable player in the electric SUV market. With its record-breaking specs, aggressive pricing, and ecosystem synergy, it’s not just a rival to Tesla—it’s a revolution in affordable luxury EVs.
As pre-orders skyrocket and production ramps up, the YU7 may well define the next chapter in global EV adoption.
