Xiaomi has always been a brand full of surprises, and this time, they’ve outdone themselves. They’ve revealed an ultra-high-performance prototype of their SU7 electric car, aiming to outshine the likes of Tesla’s Model S Plaid and Porsche’s Taycan Turbo GT. The twist? This SU7 Ultra is not intended for sale in its current form.
From Market Launch to Prototype Dream
When Xiaomi launched the SU7 in China, it was an instant hit. Priced competitively against the Tesla Model 3, the SU7 offered the luxury and performance of a Model S. But Xiaomi isn’t just about competitive pricing; they want to capture imaginations. Enter the SU7 Ultra prototype—a souped-up version of their electric sedan, loaded with impressive enhancements.
Unlike its production counterpart, the SU7 Ultra features striking aerodynamic elements, including a prominent front splitter and a large rear wing. These modifications enable the SU7 Ultra to generate up to 2145 kg of downforce, enhancing its grip and stability on the road. The use of carbon fiber for all body panels keeps the prototype’s weight under 2 tons, specifically at 1900 kg, which is about 300 kg lighter than both the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT and the Tesla Model S Plaid.
Unmatched Power and Performance
What really sets the SU7 Ultra apart is its power. Boasting a staggering 1548 horsepower, it dwarfs the SU7 Max’s already impressive 673 horsepower. This boost in power is thanks to a trio of electric motors—two at the rear and one at the front, akin to the setup found in the Tesla Model S Plaid. To ensure these motors receive ample power, Xiaomi has equipped the SU7 Ultra with a battery featuring CATL’s latest Qilin II cells. While the exact capacity remains undisclosed, it’s clear that performance takes precedence over range for this prototype.
Circuit-Ready Capabilities
Xiaomi claims the SU7 Ultra can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a blistering 1.97 seconds, compared to the SU7 Max’s 2.78 seconds. This near-Formula 1 acceleration was achieved using racing tires—Pirelli P ZEROs, if the photos shared by Xiaomi are anything to go by.
The real test for the SU7 Ultra will be on the track. This October, Xiaomi aims to break the lap record for a four-door car at the renowned Nordschleife, the northern loop of Germany’s Nürburgring. The current record holder, the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT, clocked a time of 7:07.55 minutes on the 20.832 km circuit. Competing with a non-road-legal prototype against production models might seem unfair, but it’s a strategic move for Xiaomi. They are clearly looking to make a statement and generate buzz.
Looking to the Future
There’s hope among enthusiasts that Xiaomi might eventually bring a production version of the SU7 Ultra to market, potentially even in Europe. If the buzz around the prototype translates into demand, Xiaomi could very well shake up the electric car market once again. Until then, we can only dream of what this high-performance beast could bring to our roads.
In the world of electric vehicles, Xiaomi is proving that they are not just playing the game—they are redefining it.
