New regulatory data from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) suggests that Xiaomi is expanding its electric vehicle lineup with a more budget-friendly version of its YU7 SUV. The filing reveals a variant that prioritizes cost-efficiency, likely aimed at capturing a broader segment of the competitive EV market.
Technical Specifications and Key Changes
The newly registered YU7 variant maintains the same physical footprint as the standard model, measuring approximately 4,999mm in length and 1,996mm in width, with a 3,000mm wheelbase. However, several internal changes point toward a strategic shift in hardware:
- Powertrain: The model features a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive layout delivering 235kW (315hp).
- Battery Technology: The vehicle will utilize a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery supplied by CATL.
- Weight Reduction: Most notably, the new variant has a curb weight of 2,200kg —a significant 115kg reduction compared to the standard version’s 2,315kg.
- Customization: Xiaomi is introducing new aesthetic options, including “rice-shaped” and “plum blossom” 20-inch wheel designs.
Why the Weight Reduction Matters
In the electric vehicle industry, weight is a critical factor in both performance and cost. The 115kg drop in curb weight is a strong indicator that Xiaomi is opting for a smaller, lighter battery pack.
Industry observers suggest this new model may adopt the 73kWh LFP battery currently used in the Xiaomi SU7 sedan, rather than the larger 96.3kWh battery found in the high-end YU7 models. By downsizing the battery, Xiaomi can significantly lower the vehicle’s entry price, making the SUV more accessible to a wider consumer base.
Market Context and Sales Momentum
Xiaomi’s entry into the automotive sector has been characterized by massive consumer interest. Following its launch in June 2025, the YU7 saw unprecedented demand:
– 200,000 orders within the first three minutes.
– 289,000 orders within one hour.
– 240,000 locked orders within 18 hours.
While recent sales data from March suggests that the initial backlog of orders is nearing completion, the introduction of a lower-cost variant serves as a strategic move to maintain sales momentum. By offering a more affordable “entry-level” version, Xiaomi can leverage its massive existing smartphone user base to drive high-volume sales in the increasingly crowded mid-range SUV market.
Summary: By utilizing a smaller LFP battery and a lighter single-motor configuration, Xiaomi is positioning a new, more affordable YU7 variant to sustain its rapid growth and compete more aggressively on price.
