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Prototype spotted: high-performance YU7 on the Nürburgring
A heavily camouflaged Xiaomi YU7 prototype was caught testing laps at the Nürburgring, offering the clearest sign yet that a high-performance variant of the recently launched YU7 crossover is coming. Photographs of the mule reveal several track-oriented upgrades compared with the standard YU7 lineup and suggest Xiaomi is preparing a serious performance EV to challenge rivals such as the Tesla Model Y Performance.
What stood out on the test car
The prototype wears familiar camouflage similar to development mules used for the SU7 Ultra but with hardware changes that address earlier criticism of Xiaomi's performance models. Key visible upgrades include oversized brake calipers at all four corners, a noticeably lower ride height, widened wheel arches (especially at the rear), and a split dual spoiler spanning the roofline and tailgate. A lidar sensor mounted above the windshield is a reminder Xiaomi intends to keep advanced driver assistance and autonomy ambitions even on its sportiest models.
Highlights:
- Large multi-piston brake calipers and big rotors for improved stopping power
- Staggered 21-inch wheels expected, with 305-section rear tires indicated by the arches
- Lowered suspension and muscular rear haunches for increased track capability
- Dual-level rear spoiler and aerodynamic tweaks
Design and mechanical cues
The YU7 prototype appears to sit substantially lower than the production YU7 Standard, Pro, and Max. The stretched wheel arches are likely designed to house a staggered performance wheel-and-tire setup — reports and photos point to wide 305-section tires on a 21-inch staggered arrangement. The dual spoiler and revised diffuser areas suggest Xiaomi engineers are focusing on downforce and stability for high-speed laps.
Braking was a notable focus on this test car. Xiaomi faced criticism when earlier SU7 Ultra prototypes and early production cars were perceived to have underwhelming braking hardware despite claims of carbon-ceramic components. The YU7 test vehicle shows larger, more conventional performance brakes that better match the extra mass of a crossover versus a sedan.
Powertrain and performance expectations
While Xiaomi has not confirmed details, the high-performance crossover is expected to borrow and significantly upgrade the SU7 Ultra powertrain. Industry chatter and prior Xiaomi specifications indicate a three-motor setup tuned for extreme output. Conservative estimates based on those cues put combined power well into four-digit figures, and some sources claim the setup could exceed 1,500 horsepower in top-spec trim.
Battery capacity is likely in the 100 kWh class, which would offer the thermal and energy reserves needed for repeated high-speed laps on a circuit like the Nürburgring. Cooling upgrades, heavier-duty brakes, and reinforced suspension are logical additions to accommodate that power and the crossover's greater curb weight.
Market positioning and nameplate
Xiaomi rolled out the YU7 earlier in the year in Standard (RWD), Pro, and Max (both AWD) trims. A halo performance variant has been widely expected; whether Xiaomi will use the Ultra badge like the SU7 Ultra or adopt a GT moniker remains unclear. Chinese reports have floated the YU7 GT name, while the Ultra label is still possible.
The new top-spec YU7 will likely serve two goals: underline Xiaomi's performance credentials after the SU7 and provide a marquee model to boost global expansion and brand cachet in the highly competitive electric crossover segment.
Quick specs summary (expected)
- Powertrain: three-motor AWD (upgraded SU7 Ultra architecture)
- Estimated power: in excess of 1,500 hp (top trim rumors)
- Battery: ~100 kWh pack
- Wheels/tires: staggered 21-inch with 305 rear tires
- Brakes: oversized multi-piston calipers and large rotors
- Aerodynamics: dual split rear spoiler, revised diffuser
"The Nürburgring is a development proving ground; the hardware we see suggests Xiaomi is serious about real-world performance," said an industry engineer familiar with EV testing protocols.
As testing progresses we'll likely see further refinements, cooling vents, and suspension tuning. Xiaomi's move into high-performance crossovers could reshape perceptions of the brand as it seeks to take on mainstream and performance-focused rivals in global markets.
Source: autoevolution
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