Xiaomi plans global right-hand-drive push for 2028

Xiaomi is systematically preparing the international expansion of its electric vehicle lineup, targeting key right-hand-drive markets starting in 2028 while explicitly excluding a US launch.

Key Facts:

• Recruitment launched in Australia for legal counsel and auto finance positions
• European market entry set for the second half of 2027 following German dealer agreements
• US market entry ruled out due to high import tariffs and regulatory barriers

Strategic expansion in Australia and Asia

By recruiting in Sydney for Senior Legal Counsel and Auto Finance roles, Xiaomi is establishing its operational foundation in Australia. Specific vehicle offerings and regional pricing remain undisclosed, with local market entry expected in 2028. Beyond Australia, the planned right-hand-drive rollout targets additional markets including the UK, Japan, and New Zealand.

Status regarding the US market

Unlike its expansion into Europe and APAC, Xiaomi currently has no plans to bring its EV business to the United States. High import tariffs of 100 percent on Chinese-built electric vehicles, along with missing US safety certifications and software ecosystem constraints, leave North America outside Xiaomi's roadmap. US sightings of models like the YU7 were tied to competitive benchmarking by local automakers.

Technical specifications and lap record

The technological benchmarks of the brand are the SU7 sedan and the YU7 crossover. The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra achieved an official lap time of 7:04.957 minutes on the Nuerburgring Nordschleife with test driver Vincent Radermecker, claiming the record for the fastest electric executive car. Output across the SU7 line ranges from 299 hp to 673 hp in the all-wheel-drive Max.

Outlook and relevance

With an annual production capacity of up to 300,000 units at its Beijing facility, the manufacturer possesses substantial industrial reserves. Whether this manufacturing volume will directly support export allocations remains to be confirmed.