From the moment Xiaomi announced its venture into car manufacturing, it took three years to realize this ambition. People had been eagerly anticipating this move, especially considering Lei Jun's statement about investing tenfold to create a car rivalling the likes of Tesla and Porsche. He emphasized that this car wouldn't come cheap; it wouldn't be priced at 99.000 yuan, nor at 149.000 yuan, nor even at 199.000 yuan. This indicated that something significant was in the works.
Xiaomi's approach to car manufacturing mirrors Apple's strategy in smartphone production: focusing on in-house research and development of electric propulsion systems, batteries, autonomous driving technology, and smart cockpits. They even ventured into innovative production methods, such as the 9100-ton integrated die-casting process, and established a car factory larger than the Forbidden City. It's evident that Xiaomi's entry into the automotive industry is a serious endeavor.
Lei Jun has staked his lifelong reputation and experience on creating this car, driven by the desire to make an exceptional vehicle. From the outset, Xiaomi's approach seems less radical, more akin to crafting a high-end product. The car is not only compatible with Xiaomi devices but also with Apple products. Its sleek design has captivated many tech enthusiasts and luxury car owners alike.
The success of Xiaomi's debut car, the SU7. is evident from its pricing, design, and product positioning. It has garnered attention on the roads, with people stopping to take photos. In some shopping malls, there are more Xiaomi SU7s on display than Huawei's Smart Selection cars. This indicates that Xiaomi hasn't just become upscale; it has succeeded in creating a high-end car priced at over two hundred thousand yuan, attracting a diverse customer base, including many young women affectionately referred to as "butter wives." The car has also drawn attention from onlookers, photographers, and social media users. It has even enticed owners of BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi vehicles.
Since its launch in May, the Xiaomi SU7 has generated substantial interest and orders. Whether it's Zhou Hongyi expressing interest in purchasing one, Lei Jun endorsing the product on Weibo, or the car making a prominent appearance at the Beijing Auto Show, it showcases the allure and explosive potential of both Lei Jun and Xiaomi's automotive venture.
For those who argue that Xiaomi's brand isn't upscale, consider the endorsement from Porsche executives and the praise from Yu Chengdong for the design and color of the Xiaomi SU7. Additionally, companies like NIO, XPeng, Li Auto, Great Wall Motors, and BAIC have all shown support for Xiaomi's venture, with Great Wall's chairman personally testing the Xiaomi SU7. This recognition from industry giants and automotive enthusiasts alike underscores the acclaim received by the Xiaomi SU7.
The Xiaomi SU7 is a high-end C-segment sedan designed to appeal to young drivers seeking an exhilarating driving experience. It offers the sensation of driving a sports car, with rapid acceleration that makes every drive attention-grabbing. It satisfies the desire of young people for cool and fashionable vehicles, attracting many female buyers who enjoy showcasing their cars. Therefore, Xiaomi's foray into the automotive industry has been a resounding success, whether judged by its reception in the automotive community, its product positioning, pricing, or design. What do you think? Feel free to join me, entrepreneur Li Meng, in discussing this further!