Beijing, CHINA, May 22, 2025: Smartphone manufacturer Xiaomi, which has zoomed into the automotive sector, has launched its first SUV, the Xiaomi YU7, meaning ‘riding the wind’. With a range of up to 835 kilometres (519 miles), this high-end SUV performs better than Tesla’s Model Y, which was redesigned last January and has a range of up to 719 kilometres.
The YU7, which experts are calling a “Tesla Killer,” is anticipated to retail for $34,700, which is less expensive than Tesla’s Model Y, which costs $36,600. The Model Y, which has many extra features, is still Tesla’s best-selling car.
With a length of 4,999 mm and a wheelbase of 3,000 mm, the Xiaomi YU7 offers more room than the Model Y, which has a length of 4,797 mm and a wheelbase of 2,890 mm. It also looks more streamlined because it is flatter and wider. Xiaomi’s electric car is impressive across all of its models, with the YU7 Max generating an incredible 508 kW (681 hp) and reaching 100 km/h in roughly 3.2 seconds. This is accomplished in 4.3 seconds by the Model Y Long Range, demonstrating a notable performance difference.
Global auto experts observe that Xiaomi is attracting attention with its cutting-edge technology, such as a panoramic HUD, large dashboard displays, and integration with HyperOS, Xiaomi’s proprietary operating system, while Tesla’s minimalist design is starting to feel dated.
The YU7’s sleek, contemporary design contrasts with Tesla’s more utilitarian style. The Nvidia Thor chip (700 TOPS), which powers the autonomous driving capabilities and directly competes with Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system powered by the AI4 computer, gives the interior a more luxurious feel.
Crucially, Xiaomi has included a much larger battery in the YU7. Although the Model Y can only use a battery pack of about 80 kWh, Xiaomi’s top model can use up to 101.7 kWh, giving it a CLTC range of 760 km, which is more than 40 km longer than Tesla’s best.
Last year, Xiaomi made its debut in the automotive sector with the sporty EV SU7, which was inspired by Porsche and cost less than Tesla’s Model 3. The SU7 has continuously outsold the Model 3 in China on a monthly basis since December.
The 3.11 m² clamshell aluminium hood (1960×1587 mm), which is acknowledged as the largest in mass-produced vehicles, is perfectly integrated with the vehicle’s body after months of intensive optimisation. A 141 L electric front trunk with up to eight opening modes is located underneath it. Sporty wheel arches and the optional 275 mm rear wide tyres add to the car’s high-performance look.
The YU7’s infotainment system, which has the “Auto-Flush Door Handle” feature, is one of its best features. This feature eliminates the need for manual operation by automatically extending the door handles as users approach with their keys.
This system, which is enhanced by ambient lighting, improves the entry experience while also increasing convenience. After entry, the handles smoothly retract, creating a process that blends sophisticated functionality with simple user-friendliness and is effortlessly elegant.
The Xiaomi YU7 is a leader in range within the sports SUV class thanks to its drag coefficient of CD 0.245, which increases CLTC range by 59 km over pre-optimisation values.
