Xiaomi SU7: customers line up for test drives until 3 am

Since its launch on March 28, the Xiaomi SU7 has not only gone viral on social media across China. People have gone into a frenzy over the first car from the tech giant. It’s been reportedly that scalpers who paid deposit are selling their purchasing rights to the SU7 inflating it by as much as 100,000 yuan (13,850 USD).

Meanwhile, the manager of the Xiaomi Auto dealership in Shanghai confirmed that approximately 10,000 people visited the dealership not only to have a glimpse of the SU7 but also in hopes of scheduling a test drive. “Test drives were scheduled until 3 am on March 30,” the manager said. “Those who have paid the deposit have priority to test drive the SU7.” Other Xiaomi Auto dealerships are sharing similar stories across China. This is a rare site at dealerships from legacy automakers.

Since Xiaomi announced 88,898 firm orders were received for the SU7 within 24 hours after the launch. There are multiple complaints on consumer rights platforms about Xiaomi pre-order cancellations. The controversy was about the non-refundability of deposits. In response, some lawyers have stated that Xiaomi’s actions are legal and compliant with the law. Xiaomi clearly outlined the deposit policies in the purchase agreement. The deposit acts as a guarantee. There is a grace period, where deposits can be refunded within 7 days. After 7 days, the vehicle configuration will be locked and the car will go into production. No other carmakers offer such grace period for a refund.

According to Xiaomi’s official statements, customers who place pre-orders before April 30th will receive free upgrades. This includes a fridge, a 25-speaker Dolby Atmos entertainment system, Nappa leather seats, and Xiaomi Pilot Pro total valued at 34,000 yuan (4,700 USD).

Xiaomi SU7 Max has dual motors, producing 495 kW (663 hp). It is powered by a 101 kWh Qilin battery from CATL, providing an 800 km CLTC range. With dimensions of 4997/1963/1440 mm and a wheelbase of 3,000 mm.

Xiaomi partners with BAIC for SU7 production at the new Beijing plant. BAIC’s subsidiary is responsible for SU7’s assembly. Xiaomi’s new plant was completed in June last year. Trial production of the SU7 started in December 2023. In 2024, Xiaomi aims to produce around 100,000 cars based on current levels. Initial orders exceeded 90,000 within 24 hours, likely surpassing 100,000 units after 48 hours.

Xiaomi SU7 will commence deliveries of the Standard and Max versions by the end of April. The Pro edition will begin deliveries by the end of May.