While we're still in the dark about Apple's much anticipated iCar, a different tech company in China has recently shown a brand-new electric vehicle. It's the SU7 from Beijing Xiaomi, the recently established car division of Xiaomi, the manufacturer of smartphones, and it's almost ready to begin undercutting the Model 3 in sales.
Previously identified by its MS11 codename, the small electric vehicle is set to be manufactured under contract by BAIC (Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co Ltd) and has yet to be formally revealed. However, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) in China has leaked some photographs and technical information about the SU7, just like it did with every other vehicle headed for the Chinese market.
The SU7's McLaren-like nose was already seen thanks to some extremely grainy leaked photos that surfaced online earlier this year. However, these (mainly) crisper photographs show off a gorgeous sedan that appears to be much inspired by the Porsche Taycan design team. It has a pinched waist, muscular rear arches, flush door handles, a low nose, and slightly peaked front fenders.
While the MIIT data sheet doesn't provide all the details, it does show that Xiaomi's first electric vehicle has a wheelbase of 3,000 mm (118.11 inches), which is larger than the 2,875 mm (113.2 inches) of metal that divides the front and rear axles of the Tesla Model 3. This wheelbase equals that of the Hyundai Ioniq 5. In addition to having an option between 19- or 20-inch wheels, buyers may choose a car with a Lidar sensor behind the windshield, which enables cutting-edge driver-assist technologies.
When sales begin later this year, three trim levels will be available: SU7, SU7 Pro, and SU7 Max. Some of these variants will come equipped with an active rear spoiler. An optional AWD arrangement looks to serve out a monstrous 664 horsepower (673 PS / 495 kW) by deploying two motors with a peak speed of 165 mph (265 kmh). The standard powertrain has a single 295 hp (299 PS / 220 kW) electric motor that powers the rear wheels alone. Nothing in the MIIT dump supports the prior story that said the SU7 would also be offered with a 1.5-litre range-extender engine.
Naturally, the SU7 should offer the smooth phone and automobile connectivity we all want but rarely see from a smartphone company. According to Car News China, Xiaomi's HyperOS, an internal operating system that powers smartphones and smart automobiles, will be used by the EV.
