On March 26, 2025, JP Performance, a prominent automotive YouTube channel, showcased the Xiaomi SU7 Max, marking a significant milestone as the first Xiaomi vehicle approved for public road traffic in Germany. The test was conducted with the help of Auto China, the Munich-based importer responsible for bringing this innovative electric sedan to the European market. Despite the vehicle's current unavailability in Germany, the excitement surrounding its performance has sparked interest among car enthusiasts.
The Xiaomi SU7 Max is not just another electric car; it boasts impressive specifications that could rival established brands. Equipped with two electric motors delivering a staggering 495 kW (673 PS) and 838 Nm of torque, the sedan can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds, reaching a top speed of 265 km/h. However, this power comes with a hefty weight of 2245 kg, which JP noted during his review, remarking, "2245 Kilo. Das ist eine Ansage!" (2245 kg. That’s a statement!)
In the video review, JP Performance expressed surprise at how agile the SU7 Max felt despite its weight. He stated, "Das war nicht langsam" (That was not slow), highlighting the vehicle's performance capabilities. The Xiaomi SU7 Max is currently available in China for around 38,000 Euros, a competitive price considering its performance metrics.
While Xiaomi has made waves in the smartphone industry, their foray into the automotive sector began in 2021 when the company announced a massive investment of 10 billion Euros over the next decade. The SU7 was officially announced in late 2023, and since then, Xiaomi has managed to deliver 200,000 vehicles, far surpassing their initial goal of 100,000 units for 2024.
Despite the vehicle's impressive specs and performance, the path to European market entry is not straightforward. Currently, the SU7 Max is not officially built for the EU market, necessitating each imported vehicle to undergo rigorous testing and homologation. This process, which includes modifications like changing the headlights to meet EU standards, adds to the cost. According to the YouTube video, the total cost for importing the SU7 Max through Auto China is approximately 70,000 Euros, which includes customs and homologation expenses.
Auto China has assured potential buyers that they will handle the complexities of the import process. The company stated that while the SU7 Max is not officially available in the EU, they can facilitate the necessary modifications for a successful import. This includes obtaining a European type approval, which would be more cost-effective than individual vehicle homologation.
For context, the SU7 Max's starting price in China is around 300,000 RMB, approximately 38,000 Euros. When compared to luxury electric vehicles like the Porsche Taycan or Tesla Model S, which start at about 90,000 Euros, the SU7 Max presents itself as a more affordable alternative.
However, potential buyers should be aware of limitations regarding software, warranty, and service. Auto China has indicated that they would assist with sourcing necessary parts from China if needed, as many components are already familiar to local mechanics. Yet, issues with the high-voltage system or battery repairs could pose significant challenges, although such problems are considered unlikely.
The Xiaomi SU7 Max's interior and design have also garnered attention. JP Performance praised the build quality, highlighting the impressive fit and finish. He noted that while the design draws heavily from the Porsche Taycan, with a near-identical seat design, much of the interior reflects Xiaomi's unique style. The vehicle features heavy doors with soft-closing mechanisms, adding a touch of luxury.
On the software side, the SU7 Max runs on HyperOS, which, while functional, is primarily in Chinese. This has raised concerns about usability for European customers, particularly with navigation and integration of charging stations. While updates can be made over the air and many settings are now available in English, the absence of Android Auto remains a drawback.
When it comes to range, the SU7 Max boasts a factory-rated distance of 810 km according to CLTC standards. However, when converted to the more globally recognized WLTP standards, the range is estimated to be between 650-670 km. In real-world conditions, drivers can expect a practical range of around 500 km, which should suffice for most daily needs.
JP Performance also tested the SU7 Max on a racetrack, where it demonstrated a surprisingly refined technology for a first-generation vehicle. Despite some limitations, such as brake overheating during intense driving, the overall driving dynamics were positively received. The vehicle was praised for its sporty handling, although it showed signs of strain under extreme conditions.
As Xiaomi continues to expand its automotive ambitions, plans for a European launch are tentatively set for 2027 or 2028, contingent on production capacity and market demand. With the SU7 Ultra, a model boasting 1,500 PS, already in high demand, Xiaomi seems focused on solidifying its presence in the automotive market before venturing further into Europe.
For those interested in the Xiaomi SU7 Max, Auto China is currently accepting orders, with an estimated delivery timeframe of 12 to 26 weeks. The buzz around the vehicle suggests that it could be a game-changer in the electric sedan market, especially for those looking for a unique offering that stands out from traditional luxury brands.
In conclusion, the Xiaomi SU7 Max represents a bold entry into the automotive landscape, showcasing Xiaomi's ambition to diversify beyond smartphones. With its impressive specs, competitive pricing, and unique design, it has the potential to attract a new audience of electric vehicle enthusiasts.
