Xiaomi Enters the Electric SUV Arena, Taking on Tesla’s Model Y
Chinese technology powerhouse Xiaomi has made a meaningful stride in the electric vehicle sector by unveiling it’s new electric SUV, the YU7. Positioned as a direct rival to Tesla’s Model Y, this latest offering starts at 253,500 yuan ($35,322), making it roughly 10,000 yuan less expensive than Tesla’s comparable model available in China.
Strategic Pricing and Ambitious Sales Goals
The YU7 is strategically priced to undercut Tesla’s Model Y amid an increasingly crowded EV market. Experts predict that once production stabilizes, Xiaomi could achieve monthly sales of approximately 30,000 units. This translates into an annual sales volume ranging from 300,000 to 360,000 vehicles-an ambitious target reflecting Xiaomi’s rapid growth as entering the automotive industry less than a year ago.
This approach follows Xiaomi’s earlier launch of models like the SU7 sedan which also targeted lower price points compared to Tesla’s Model 3. Lei Jun, Xiaomi’s CEO, highlighted that while the YU7 excels over the Model Y in several key performance areas such as driving range and battery efficiency, it still trails behind when it comes to advanced driver-assistance technologies.
Extraordinary Driving Range and Innovative In-car Technology
The standout feature of the Xiaomi YU7 is its remarkable estimated driving range of at least 760 kilometers (472 miles) per full charge-surpassing Tesla’s extended-range Model Y which offers around 719 kilometers (447 miles). this enhanced range aims to alleviate “range anxiety” among consumers and supports longer journeys without frequent stops for recharging.
In addition to its powertrain capabilities, the vehicle integrates elegant AI-driven features including gesture-based controls for media playback and smartphone connectivity that allows users to locate their parked car through app commands. The system also supports Apple CarPlay and Apple Music integration for a seamless entertainment experience inside the cabin.
Record-Breaking Pre-Order Numbers
Xiaomi experienced overwhelming demand with over 200,000 pre-orders secured within just three minutes after opening sales for the YU7. This surge reflects strong consumer interest driven by competitive pricing combined with advanced features. Deliveries are slated to begin between one and five weeks following early pre-sale events-accelerated due to intensifying competition among Chinese EV manufacturers.
Diversifying with AI-Powered Smart Glasses
Apart from expanding its footprint in electric vehicles,Xiaomi has introduced cutting-edge AI-enabled smart glasses designed as competitors against Meta’s Ray-Ban Stories line. These glasses boast adaptive lens tinting that adjusts automatically based on surrounding light conditions along with QR code scanning functionality tailored for popular Chinese mobile payment platforms.
- Hands-free photo and video capture capabilities;
- interactive AI tools such as real-time identification of plants or objects;
- Instant translation services activated via voice commands or visual recognition technology;
The smart eyewear is priced around 1,999 yuan ($279) but currently lacks plans for international distribution due to regional market considerations; notably meta’s equivalent product remains unavailable officially within China as well.
