Xiaomi's car lineup to get two more models including a hybrid

Chinese tech giant Xiaomi is set to expand its presence in the electric vehicle market with the introduction of two additional models, one of which is a hybrid. This strategic move aims to boost sales and establish Xiaomi as a key player in the rapidly evolving Chinese electric car industry.

Xiaomi's foray into the world of electric cars was announced last month when the company revealed its first model - the Xiaomi SU7 - internally codenamed Modenat. However, the latest reports suggest that Xiaomi has more ambitious plans, with a total of three models in the pipeline.

The first two models, including Modena, will be battery electric vehicles (BEVs), demonstrating Xiaomi's commitment to the electrification of transportation. These BEVs are expected to make their official debut next year, marking a significant step in Xiaomi's automotive journey.

The third model, codenamed Kunlun, is where Xiaomi's strategy takes an interesting turn. While previous rumors hinted at an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV), Xiaomi has kept the specifics under wraps. As of November, Kunlun was transitioning from conceptual design to the detailed design stage, leaving us with unanswered questions about its hybrid nature.

Whether Kunlun will be a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) or an EREV remains uncertain, but what's clear is Xiaomi's practical approach to positioning it as the third product. This strategy aims to capitalize on the growing demand for hybrid vehicles in the Chinese market.

China has witnessed a surge in retail sales of new energy vehicles (NEVs), including BEVs, hybrids, and fuel cell models. In the first ten months of the year, these sales reached a staggering 5.96 million units, marking a 35% year-on-year increase. BEVs alone accounted for 4.0 million units, with hybrid vehicle sales surging by 83% to 1.96 million units. This impressive growth rate positions hybrids as formidable contenders against traditional fuel vehicles.

Xiaomi's entry into the EV market with SU7 is a significant milestone, with nearly three years of meticulous preparation. However, the company plans to expedite its car development process, aiming to launch at least one new model every year. This accelerated pace will be a testament to Xiaomi's commitment to staying competitive in the evolving automotive landscape.

The SU7 has already completed the necessary regulatory processes, indicating that its official launch is imminent. Local media reports suggest that mass production will begin in December, with an official unveiling scheduled for February next year. Xiaomi's car factory in Beijing has been actively involved in small-volume trial production, with dozens of vehicles already manufactured.

Via