- The Xiaomi SUV is expected to be underpinned by a new platform.
- The smartphone giant may offer the SUV as both a battery-electric vehicle and a range-extender EV.
- If the new model borrows styling traits from the SU7, it could be quite the looker.
Soon after launching its very first vehicle in the form of an all-electric sedan, Chinese technology giant Xiaomi is reportedly in the process of developing an electric SUV, with speculation suggesting it could be revealed before the year’s end.
Despite being a newcomer in the automotive industry, Xiaomi is a well-known and well-respected brand across China and other parts of the world for its electronic devices, particularly smartphones. Its first car, the SU7, secured 50,000 firm orders just 27 minutes after it launched and the brand is eager to make the most of the hype surrounding its entry into the EV world.
Eager to capitalize on this momentum, Xiaomi aims to offer its second model with both battery-electric and electric range-extended options, marking a pioneering move for the brand.
Read: Xiaomi SU7 Flies Off Shelves, But Crashes, Delays And Complaints Sour Debut
The SU7 is built upon the brand’s Modena platform. While it might seem logical for Xiaomi’s second model to utilize the same EV architecture, a report from MyDrivers indicates otherwise. Instead, the forthcoming SUV, potentially named the SU8, is expected to feature a fresh platform capable of accommodating a range-extender option. This new model, similar in size to the Porsche Cayenne, will compete with the Li Auto L9, which also offers a range-extender powertrain.
Renders Sugar Design
If the SU7 is any indication, the Xiaomi SU8 could be quite the eye-catcher. Several renderings of the SUV have already emerged online, including the ones you see here from independent artist, Sugar Design. These illustrations portray the SUV with headlights and taillights resembling those of the sedan but integrated into bodywork reminiscent of the Ferrari Purosangue. We think the vehicle looks excellent and are fans of the rear suicide doors.
The debut of the SU7 has already had a substantial impact on the value of the Xiaomi brand. Since the sedan’s recent introduction, Xiaomi’s share price has surged, boosting its valuation by up to $7.6 billion. This surge in value has elevated Xiaomi’s worth to $55.2 billion.
Note: This story contains illustrations that are neither related to nor endorsed by Xiaomi.
