The electric vehicle market is heating up, and Xiaomi has entered the competition with its latest model, the Xiaomi YU7. As the brand’s second electric vehicle, following the SU7 sedan, this all-electric SUV aims to challenge the Tesla Model Y with its impressive size, range, and expected affordability. Recent Chinese regulatory filings have revealed new details about the YU7, showing that it could be a strong contender in the growing EV segment.
One of the most striking aspects of the Xiaomi YU7 is its impressive range. According to China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the all-wheel drive variants of the YU7 boast 670 km, 750 km, and 760 km on the CLTC cycle. While Chinese range estimates tend to be optimistic, these figures still put the YU7 ahead of the newly updated Tesla Model Y.
For comparison, Tesla’s latest Model Y is available in rear-wheel drive and long-range all-wheel drive configurations. The base RWD Model Y offers 593 km, while the AWD model reaches 719 km on the CLTC cycle. Xiaomi has not yet released figures for a RWD version of the YU7, but its AWD models already have a clear edge over the Tesla Model Y AWD in terms of range.
Curiously, Xiaomi has yet to reveal the exact battery capacities for the YU7. However, given its impressive range figures, it is expected to feature large, high-capacity battery packs capable of delivering extended driving distances on a single charge.
Beyond range, size is another key area where the Xiaomi YU7 stands out. Measuring 4,999 mm in length, it is 202 mm longer than the new Tesla Model Y, which measures 4,797 mm. The YU7 also boasts a 3,000 mm wheelbase, compared to the 2,890 mm wheelbase of the Model Y. This means that Xiaomi’s electric SUV is not only longer but also offers a more spacious interior, particularly in the second row.
The increased size could make the YU7 a more comfortable option for passengers, particularly in markets where rear-seat space is a crucial factor for buyers. The extra legroom and potential for a larger cargo area further strengthen its appeal as a practical electric SUV.
Pricing details for the YU7 remain unconfirmed, but local Chinese media estimates suggest a starting price of ¥250,000 (around $34,700). If accurate, this would make the YU7 cheaper than the Tesla Model Y RWD, which starts at ¥263,500 (around $36,600) in China. While higher-end versions of the YU7 will be more expensive, they are expected to remain competitive with the Model Y Long Range AWD, which starts at ¥303,500 (around $42,200).
For now, the Xiaomi YU7 is exclusive to China, and the company has no immediate plans to launch it in international markets. However, reports suggest that Xiaomi might test its EVs in select countries before a larger global expansion. If Xiaomi enters international markets, the YU7 could emerge as a serious competitor in the global electric SUV segment.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.