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Xiaomi SU7 Ultra: Pioneering High-Performance Electric Vehicle with Advanced Aerodynamics

GOOVER DAILY REPORT July 26, 2024
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. Summary
  2. Introduction to Xiaomi SU7 Ultra
  3. Technical Specifications and Performance
  4. Competitive Positioning and Market Impact
  5. Track Performance and Record Attempts
  6. Future Developments and Production Plans
  7. Conclusion

1. Summary

  • The report examines Xiaomi's venture into the electric vehicle market with the high-performance SU7 Ultra sedan. With a comprehensive exploration of the vehicle's design, technical specifications, competitive positioning, and performance metrics, the report highlights Xiaomi's ambitious intent to rival market leaders like Porsche and Tesla. The SU7 Ultra's key features include a powerful tri-motor powertrain generating 1,548 horsepower, advanced aerodynamics, a carbon fiber body, and the state-of-the-art CATL Qilin 2.0 battery pack. Key findings include the vehicle's impressive acceleration times, top speed, and its potential to break the Nurburgring lap record. The report discusses Xiaomi's strategic production plans, market expectations, and the SU7 Ultra's competitive advantages and challenges in the high-performance EV market.

2. Introduction to Xiaomi SU7 Ultra

  • 2-1. Xiaomi's entry into the EV market

  • Xiaomi, a prominent smartphone manufacturer, made a surprising leap into the electric vehicle (EV) market with the introduction of its first electric vehicle, the SU7. Xiaomi's entry into the EV market was marked by significant attention, with over 75,000 sales within the first 28 days of its release. This debut car signals Xiaomi's ambitious intentions to compete with established EV manufacturers such as Porsche and Tesla. Notably, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra, a high-performance version, showcases the company's dedication to innovation and performance by aiming to set a new electric vehicle lap record at the Nurburgring.

  • 2-2. Overview of SU7 Ultra specifications

  • The SU7 Ultra is a high-performance electric sedan designed to rival prominent models like the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT and the Tesla Model S Plaid. It is powered by three electric motors producing a combined 1527 hp (1139 kW / 1,548 PS) and weighs 1,900 kg (4,189 lbs). The vehicle features a carbon fiber body with advanced aerodynamics, generating up to 2,145 kg (4,729 lbs) of downforce. The powertrain enables the SU7 Ultra to accelerate from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 1.97 seconds, 0-200 km/h (124 mph) in 5.97 seconds, and reach a top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph). The EV is equipped with a CATL Qilin 2.0 battery pack, offering a maximum discharge rate of 1,330 kW, optimal for track use. The braking system comprises high-performance AP Racing brakes, achieving a maximum deceleration force of 2.36G. Additionally, the vehicle includes a suite of advanced features such as a sleek exterior design, a 16.1-inch 3K resolution infotainment screen, a massive 56-inch head-up display, and a full suite of ADAS features.

3. Technical Specifications and Performance

  • 3-1. Tri-motor powertrain and horsepower

  • The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra features a tri-motor powertrain, which includes two 'Super Motor V8s' units and one 'Super Motor V6s' unit. Each Super Motor V8s generates 425 kW (578 PS) and 635 Nm of torque, while the Super Motor V6s generates 288 kW (392 PS). The combined power output of the SU7 Ultra's three motors is a whopping 1,548 PS (1,138 kW). This setup enables the SU7 Ultra to achieve exceptional performance metrics, including a 0-100 km/h time of 1.97 seconds and a top speed in excess of 350 km/h. The vehicle also features torque-vectoring and all-wheel drive capabilities.

  • 3-2. Battery technology and range

  • The SU7 Ultra is equipped with the 'Qilin 2.0' battery pack developed jointly with CATL. The battery pack boasts a peak voltage of 897 V and can deliver a maximum power output of 1,330 kW. Even at a low 20% charge, it supplies 800 kW of power. The battery is specifically designed for racing, featuring an ultra-low internal resistance that contributes to its high performance. The charging rate is 5.2C, making it suitable for high-speed, high-demand environments like racetracks.

  • 3-3. Advanced aerodynamics and lightweight design

  • The SU7 Ultra has been optimized for track performance through various aerodynamic and lightweight design choices. The vehicle's body is made entirely of carbon fiber, reducing its weight by more than 500 kg compared to the standard SU7, resulting in a total weight of just 1,900 kg. Aerodynamic modifications include a fixed rear wing, an oversized rear diffuser, open wheel arches, and a front splitter, which generate an impressive downforce of 2,145 kg. These features contribute significantly to the car's stability and handling at high speeds.

  • 3-4. Acceleration and top speed

  • The SU7 Ultra excels in acceleration and top speed, displaying remarkable performance figures. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 1.97 seconds, 0 to 200 km/h in 5.96 seconds, and 0 to 300 km/h in 15.07 seconds. The top speed of the SU7 Ultra is reported to be over 350 km/h, placing it in the upper echelon of high-performance electric vehicles. This capability makes it a formidable competitor to models like the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT and the Tesla Model S Plaid.

4. Competitive Positioning and Market Impact

  • 4-1. Comparison with Porsche Taycan Turbo GT and Tesla Model S Plaid

  • The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra is positioned as a direct competitor to high-performance electric vehicles like the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT and Tesla Model S Plaid. Notably, the SU7 Ultra boasts a combined output of 1527bhp, which is 434bhp more than the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT. With its impressive specifications, including 0-62mph acceleration in 1.97 seconds and a top speed of over 217mph, the SU7 Ultra aims to outshine both the Taycan Turbo GT and Model S Plaid in terms of performance metrics. It is also aiming to break the Nürburgring lap record for four-door electric sedans, a record currently held by the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT with a time of 7 minutes and 5.55 seconds.

  • 4-2. Sales Expectations and Market Strategy

  • The announcement of the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra garnered significant market attention, with reports of crowds queuing outside Xiaomi’s stores and the company securing 50,000 deposits within the first 30 minutes of opening its order books. This strong initial demand suggests a positive market reception. Xiaomi’s strategy focuses on leveraging its technological expertise and brand reputation in the consumer electronics sector to penetrate the high-performance electric vehicle market. The company has also built a prototype aiming to challenge the non-production electric vehicle record at Nürburgring in October, with a subsequent attempt by the production-ready SU7 Ultra to follow, showcasing its commitment to high-performance benchmarks.

  • 4-3. Competitive Advantages and Challenges

  • One of the key competitive advantages of the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra is its remarkable powertrain, featuring a configuration of two V8s and one V6s electric motors, resulting in a total power output of 1527bhp. This enables the vehicle to achieve exceptional speed and acceleration, supported by advanced aerodynamic features such as a carbon fiber bodykit generating 2145kg of downforce. Additionally, the SU7 Ultra utilizes the CATL Qilin II battery, capable of charging from 0 to 80% in just 12 minutes, thanks to its 897V architecture. However, the challenges include competing against well-established automotive giants like Porsche and Tesla, both of which have a significant head start and brand loyalty in the electric vehicle market. Furthermore, the high weight of 1900kg could impact handling and overall driving enjoyment, points that have been highlighted in consumer discussions.

5. Track Performance and Record Attempts

  • 5-1. Nurburgring lap record attempt

  • The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra prototype, a high-performance electric sedan, is aimed at breaking the Nurburgring lap record. The car is designed to outperform existing market leaders such as the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT and the Tesla Model S Plaid. With a goal of beating the 7:07.55 lap time of the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT and Tesla Model S Plaid's 7:25.23, Xiaomi has taken the SU7 Ultra to the renowned Nurburgring track in Germany. The prototype must surpass the current best-ever lap time of 6:05.336 established by the fully electric Volkswagen ID.R to qualify for a record.

  • 5-2. Track-specific modifications

  • The SU7 Ultra features advanced modifications tailored for track performance. Xiaomi has equipped the prototype with aggressive aerodynamics, including a front splitter, redesigned air vents, a vented hood, side skirts, a massive rear wing, and a diffuser, which collectively generate up to 2,145 kg (4,729 lbs) of downforce. To reduce weight, the body panels are made entirely of carbon fiber, bringing the curb weight to 1,900 kg (4,189 lbs). Powered by three electric motors, the SU7 Ultra delivers a total of 1,527 hp (1,139 kW), significantly higher than its competitors. The CATL Qilin 2.0 battery pack features a maximum discharge rate of 1,330 kW, optimizing the vehicle for high-speed performance. Additionally, high-performance brakes from AP Racing and a regenerative braking system ensure superior stopping power.

  • 5-3. Expected outcomes and publicity

  • Xiaomi's attempt at the Nurburgring is not just a test of engineering but a strategic move to attract attention and demonstrate the capabilities of the SU7 Ultra. A successful record attempt would position the SU7 Ultra amongst the fastest electric vehicles, garnering significant media coverage and boosting its competitive standing against established brands like Porsche and Tesla. The endeavor to break the Nurburgring record is part of Xiaomi's broader ambition to establish itself as a formidable player in the high-performance EV market.

6. Future Developments and Production Plans

  • 6-1. Timeline for mass production

  • Xiaomi founder and CEO Lei Jun announced that the SU7 Ultra will enter mass production in the first half of 2025. The production version will retain the majority of the components from the prototype, except for the all-carbon design, which will not be included to keep costs reasonable. The SU7 Ultra is expected to challenge the Nürburgring track in October to break the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT’s record.

  • 6-2. Expected market entry and price details

  • The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra prototype, featuring three electric motors delivering 1,548 horsepower and capable of accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 1.97 seconds, will be available for sale in the first half of 2025. The vehicle will come in two trims: regular and track version. Lei Jun indicated that the price will be slightly higher than the standard SU7 model, but still within reach for potential buyers.

7. Conclusion

  • The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra marks a significant entry into the high-performance electric vehicle sector for the company. With its tri-motor configuration and cutting-edge CATL Qilin 2.0 battery pack, the SU7 Ultra demonstrates Xiaomi's commitment to technological innovation and market competitiveness. The vehicle's advanced aerodynamics and carbon fiber design position it as a formidable competitor to established brands like Porsche and Tesla, particularly in high-speed track environments. However, challenges such as market penetration, brand loyalty of established competitors, and the vehicle's considerable weight remain. Looking ahead, Xiaomi's production plans for 2025 and targeted Nürburgring record attempts underscore its strategic ambitions. The SU7 Ultra's market entry will be closely watched, determining Xiaomi's future in the high-performance EV market. Practical applications of these advancements may influence EV design and innovation, shaping the market's competitive landscape further.

8. Glossary

  • 8-1. Xiaomi SU7 Ultra [Electric Vehicle]

  • The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra is a high-performance electric sedan with a tri-motor powertrain producing 1,548 horsepower. It features advanced aerodynamics, a carbon fiber body, and aims to challenge high-performance EVs like the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT and Tesla Model S Plaid. Notably, it targets setting a Nurburgring lap record with its groundbreaking design and technology.

  • 8-2. Nurburgring [Event/Location]

  • The Nurburgring is a renowned motorsports complex in Germany, known for its challenging Nordschleife track. The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra aims to set a new record for four-door electric vehicles at this prestigious track.

  • 8-3. CATL Qilin 2.0 Battery Pack [Technology]

  • The CATL Qilin 2.0 battery pack is a high-performance battery used in the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra, providing significant power output and fast-charging capabilities that support the vehicle's exceptional speed and range.

9. Source Documents