Xiaomi cars have lost 600 CV and immediately Xiaomi fans think back to Xiaomi’s SU7 Ultra launch that shared enthusiastically explosive promises of 1,548 CV (about 1,526 horsepower), 0–60 mph in under 2 seconds. With a price tag able to undercut that of rivals like the Tesla Model S Plaid and Porsche Taycan, the demand for Xiaomi’s SU7 ultra soared with the entire 2025 production run selling out within hours.
What did Xiaomi customers have to say?
At that point, Xiaomi did not share their concerns that releasing the full 1,548 CV on public roads would be unsafe. Xiaomi also performed an over-the-air update, which reduced the power to just 900 CV in normal driving modes. To access the full power, Xiaomi owners needed to complete a “qualifying lap” at an approved racetrack as per what the company called “Ranking Mode”.
Xiaomi customers expressed concerns about the brand’s Ranking Mode as they claimed they had paid for a hyper performance EV but received something far less exhilarating. Customers pushed back loudly on social media and through automotive discussion forums. The negative buzz created on social media caused Xiaomi to backtrack and issue a statement that full power would be restored without restrictions.
Since Xiaomi has admitted to their mistake, they are offering promotional gifts to the value of approximately €7,600 ($8,000) to all SU7 Ultra buyers. These promotional gifts are said to be somewhat of a compensation and a way for the brand to apologize. However, all the compensations offered would be tied to perks with regard to Xiaomi’s ecosystem. Nevertheless, no direct cash compensation was offered.
What to expect from Xiaomi’s compensation package
Spanish media outlet, El Confidencial, mentioned that the first compensation gift being offered is a carbon fiber hood with dual vents. This accessory featured a price tag of 42,000 yuan (around €5,150 or $5,600). The carbon fiber hood that has newly been added to Xiaomi’s optional catalog will be given for free to every SU7 Ultra customer who has purchased their car before May 10, 2025. Buyers who had already selected the hood at the time of their initial configuration will still be eligible to receive the second part of the compensation.
A loyalty points bonus is on offer as part of the second compensation benefit. This bonus is to the value of 20,000 yuan (roughly €2,450 or $2,400) and can be redeemed at all Xiaomi’s official stores. These points can be redeemed for a range of services, upgrades, or other Xiaomi-branded purchases.
The package worth $8,000 is Xiaomi’s way of apologizing, however, it is a strategic move that keeps the company’s customers engaged without causing the company to part with any cash in the process. Tech giant, Xiaomi, needs to hold up its reputation as it is already building the car that dreams are made of.
Apology gifts for delays and an attempt to restore reputation
Most of Xiaomi’s customers have received these apology gifts well, however, these gifts do come at a cost. The company did not conceal that fact that to reconfigure existing SU7 Ultra orders, the carbon hood will strain production lines and potentially cause a delay to all upcoming deliveries. The brand stands by the fact that manufacturing the hood is a rather time-intensive process.
Xiaomi’s official statement was an attempt by the brand to acknowledge its mistake. The company further asserted, “We recognize that decisions of this magnitude should be made with our customers’ input.” Although the brand admitted to its mistake, this SU7 Ultra saga highlights a modern issue. Since cars are software-driven, automakers can change the vehicle’s performance once it has been sold. This is a reality that all consumers need to come to terms with. It also leaves us with the question: will Xiaomi be in hot water like Tesla?
