Xiaomi preps powerful Tesla Model X Plaid competitor

Xiaomi is testing a direct competitor to the beastly Tesla Model X Plaid version that outputs 1,020 horsepower and takes only 2.5 seconds to go from 0-60 mph, quite the feat for a 2-ton electric SUV.

The alleged Xiaomi YU7 GT will reportedly offer a tri-motor drivetrain, too, with blazing fast acceleration thanks to the 1,000 HP power output that will rival the Model X Plaid.

Xiaomi, which is best known for its phones and home electronics like the 4K Google TV Box, recently dabbled in electric cars rather successfully. Its founder Lei Jun has reached a somewhat cult status as the Chinese Elon Musk due to his entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic, so its inaugural electric sedan was in such high demand that Xiaomi then released a direct Tesla Model Y and Model X competitor, the YU7 SUV that is, however, much cheaper.

Now, however, Xiaomi's ambitions to match every entry in Tesla's portfolio has led it to the development of a Tesla Model X Plaid competitor that is currently testing at the famed Nürburgring racetrack in Germany. The rear diffuser and fixed wing, as well as the splitter and ventilated hood, hint that the camouflaged vehicle is not a regular YU7 but rather the rumored GT version that Xiaomi may announce as soon as September 25 during a product event it teased.

In addition to the racy spoiler and splitter that serve an aerodynamic purpose, the eventual Xiaomi YU7 GT performance SUV is tailored with black wheel arches and sporty wheels to make it look the part, but any definitive specs and pricing of Xiaomi's Model X Plaid competitor will have to wait for the imminent official announcement.