Xiaomi’s SU7 Ultra prototype recently completed a lap around the Nürburgring in 6 minutes and 48.874 seconds, setting a blistering time for an electric sedan and potentially laying the groundwork for an official record attempt. This prototype lap is a full 18 seconds faster than the previous Nürburgring record for an EV sedan, held by the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT at 7 minutes and 7.55 seconds. However, Xiaomi’s current lap won’t go down as an official record due to the prototype’s unfinished status.

The SU7 Ultra prototype showcased staggering specifications that set it apart from its competition. Powered by a tri-motor setup delivering 1,548 horsepower, the SU7 can reach 62 mph in a jaw-dropping 1.97 seconds and achieve a top speed of 217 mph. Xiaomi has not revealed all the technical details, but it’s clear that the company is taking a no-compromise approach to speed and power.

The SU7 prototype was far from production-ready, sporting a stripped-down interior with no dashboard, a racing steering wheel, and only essential components. The car’s unfinished status came into play during the lap, as an accelerator glitch around the 4-minute mark caused a slight delay. Despite this, the car continued with remarkable agility and completed the lap with an impressive time.

While the SU7 prototype’s lap is unofficial, Xiaomi has committed to returning with a production-ready SU7 Ultra in 2025 to set a recognized record. The company is fine-tuning the model, aiming to ensure that it doesn’t just meet the Nürburgring's standards but exceeds them, with all the necessary production components in place.

With the SU7 Ultra, Xiaomi aims to position itself as one of the top five automakers in the world, taking advantage of China’s burgeoning EV industry. The competition from Chinese automakers has intensified, with brands like BYD and NIO also vying for attention. Yet Xiaomi’s strategy of combining high performance with affordable luxury might set it apart from the competition, providing serious competition to established players from Europe and the U.S.

Interestingly, Xiaomi's sedan has already impressed a number of key figures in the auto industry, including Ford CEO Jim Farley, who has reportedly been test-driving an SU7 prototype and doesn’t want to part with it. Farley’s endorsement underscores the potential of the SU7 as a serious competitor, capable of impressing even veteran automotive leaders.

Xiaomi’s expansion into the automotive sector reflects a broader trend among tech companies, particularly in China, where companies like Huawei are making similar moves. By leveraging its background in consumer technology, Xiaomi has a unique advantage when it comes to integrating tech-forward features into vehicles, such as advanced infotainment systems and potentially even smartphone-based controls. This experience may allow Xiaomi to bridge the gap between high-tech features and everyday usability in its vehicles, setting a new standard for EVs globally.

While it remains to be seen if the production SU7 Ultra will achieve the Nürburgring record, the car’s prototype performance has certainly set high expectations. If Xiaomi successfully produces an EV sedan that not only rivals but surpasses luxury sports brands like Porsche, it could redefine the market and elevate Chinese automakers on the global stage.

In the months leading up to the official record attempt, Xiaomi’s team will continue to refine the SU7 Ultra. With its cutting-edge technology, incredible power, and a possible price point that’s accessible to a broader market, Xiaomi is aiming to be more than a smartphone maker that dabbles in cars.