Xiaomi May Launch an Electric SUV As Early As This Year

Following the launch of its debut vehicle as an all-electric sedan, Chinese tech giant Xiaomi is believed to be developing an electric SUV, with speculation rife that it could be revealed before the end of the year.

Despite being a newcomer to the automotive industry, Xiaomi is a well-known and respected brand throughout China and other parts of the world for its electronic devices, particularly its smartphones. The company’s first car, the SU7, received 50,000 orders within just 27 minutes of its launch, and the brand is keen to capitalize on the buzz surrounding its entry into the EV space.

To that end, Xiaomi is aiming to offer its second model with both a battery-electric and a range-extender option, marking a departure for the brand.

The SU7 is based on the Modena platform. While it would seem logical for Xiaomi’s second model to use the same EV architecture, a report from MyDrivers suggests otherwise. Instead, the upcoming SUV, likely to be called the SU8, will reportedly sit on a new platform that will allow for the range-extender option. The new model is said to be similar in size to the Porsche Cayenne and will compete with the likes of the Li Auto L9, which also offers a range-extender powertrain.

Where the SU7 was perhaps more of an image-builder for the brand, the Xiaomi SU8 could be quite the looker. A number of design sketches of the SUV have emerged online, including the ones you see here from independent artist Sugar Design. The renders depict an SUV with similar headlights and taillights to the sedan, but integrated into a body that is reminiscent of the Ferrari Purosangue.

The launch of the SU7 has had a significant impact on Xiaomi’s brand value. Since the sedan was unveiled earlier this month, Xiaomi’s share price has jumped, boosting the company’s valuation to US$7.6 billion. The increase in value takes Xiaomi’s worth to US$55.2 billion.

Son Pham (forum.autodaily.vn)