Xiaomi's YU7 SUV aims to dislodge Tesla's bestselling Model Y from pole position
Tesla's bestselling Model Y faces yet another challenger on the mainland after Xiaomi unveiled the YU7 electric SUV amid much hoopla surrounding its launch over the past two months.
The smartphone maker's much-anticipated vehicle, featuring a preliminary self-driving system, large multimedia screen and high-performance battery, is seen as a game changer in the premium
electric vehicle (EV) segment, where Tesla's overwhelming advantage has been quickly dwindling.
'Some netizens mentioned that this car will be sold for 199,000 yuan [US$27,621], which is impossible,' Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun said at a launch event in Beijing on Thursday. 'Considering its configuration, which is comparable to the Model Y, it should be worth at least 300,000 yuan.'
The YU7's debut comes a year after Xiaomi unveiled its first EV – the SU7 sedan – which has been outselling the Tesla Model 3 on the mainland since December.
Xiaomi said the YU7 would hit the market in July. Prices of the car, whose basic edition has a driving range of 835km, have yet to be announced.
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Global carmakers cede world's largest auto show to Chinese EVs
Global carmakers cede world's largest auto show to Chinese EVs
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