Xiaomi’s next big step in the automotive world is taking shape. The company’s third vehicle, the Xiaomi YU9 SUV, has been spotted undergoing road tests in China’s Xinjiang region. These high-altitude tests mark an important stage in the model’s development, showcasing Xiaomi’s commitment to delivering a durable and high-performance electric SUV.
CEO Lei Jun shared on Weibo that the testing team reached the Panlong Ancient Road in the Pamir Plateau — a 30-kilometer mountain route with over 600 sharp turns and an elevation exceeding 3,500 meters. He described it as a “challenging yet magnificent route,” noting that more than 20 Xiaomi engineers are evaluating the vehicle’s durability, battery efficiency, and charging performance.
While Xiaomi hasn’t released official specifications yet, local reports suggest that the YU9 may feature an Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) system. The SUV is rumored to come with an 80 kWh battery pack offering over 400 km of pure electric range, with total range expected to be significantly higher when assisted by a range extender.
Measuring over 5.2 meters in length and around 1.8 meters in height, the YU9 is expected to compete in the D-segment SUV category. It may also be equipped with LiDAR sensors, though some prototypes spotted lacked the system — suggesting that Xiaomi is testing multiple trim configurations.
The ongoing testing in Xinjiang indicates that the YU9 is nearing the final stages of development. Once launched, it could strengthen Xiaomi’s position in the increasingly competitive electric SUV market.