Business
Xiaomi SU7 Ultra Beats Tesla Model S Plaid in Drag Race

Papillion, Nebraska, Mar 15, 2025 – Xiaomi’s SU7 Ultra, the company’s latest flagship electric vehicle, showcased its remarkable performance by defeating a Tesla Model S Plaid in a publicized drag race. The event, which drew significant attention, highlighted the growing competitiveness of electric vehicles (EVs) in the market.
The SU7 Ultra, priced at approximately $72,800 (529,900 RMB), boasts an impressive powertrain with 1,526 horsepower and a 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) acceleration in just 1.98 seconds. This performance comes at a time when the demand for the model is surging, with Xiaomi reporting sales of over 20,000 units per month, surpassing its main rival, the Tesla Model 3.
Xiaomi aims to capture a larger market share with the SU7 Ultra by offering superior features and range compared to its competitors while remaining approximately 35% cheaper than the Model S Plaid, priced at around $112,000 in China and $95,000 in the U.S.
In the electrifying drag race, the SU7 Ultra initially experienced a slip at the start. However, it quickly regained traction and outpaced the Model S Plaid. Many observers, including automotive analysts, noted the implications of Xiaomi’s performance: “Xiaomi is paving the way for a new era in electric vehicles,” said James Smith, an automotive specialist. “Their pricing strategy coupled with performance puts pressure on established brands like Tesla.”
The SU7 Ultra stands out not only in speed but also in design and technological innovation. Xiaomi’s commitment to performance has positioned the SU7 Ultra as a serious contender against Tesla’s renowned EV platform.
In addition to the competition on the drag strip, Xiaomi’s SU7 Ultra recently achieved a record lap time at the Nürburgring race track, demonstrating its capabilities beyond straight-line speed. This achievement further solidifies its position in the high-performance electric vehicle segment.
The rapid development and marketing of the SU7 Ultra indicate that Xiaomi is scaling its production and increasing its investment in EV technology as American manufacturers face a rising challenge from Chinese automakers. U.S. car manufacturers have voiced concerns regarding the competitive edge of these new electric vehicles and have urged the government to impose tariffs on imports from China to level the playing field.
As the automotive landscape continues to shift towards electrification, Xiaomi and other Chinese manufacturers are poised to play a significant role in reshaping consumer preferences. Analysts predict that as features and price points improve, more consumers will consider alternatives to traditional favorites like Tesla.
With the SU7 Ultra’s successful debut, Xiaomi has set new benchmarks for performance, pricing, and technology that could lead to a profound transformation in the electric vehicle market.