Xiaomi, a name synonymous with smartphones, is venturing into new territory with the announcement of its first electric vehicle (EV), the Xiaomi SU7.

This move marks a significant shift for the Chinese electronics giant as it aims to make a mark in the EV industry.

The Xiaomi SU7 is all set to be launched in China, bringing with it lofty claims of performance and range. The SU7 made headlines at the Mobile World Congress earlier this year, where it was revealed that the vehicle could offer a range of around 1,200km on a single charge.

This figure alone sets the Xiaomi SU7 apart in a market brimming with EV options. However, Xiaomi's CEO, Lei Jun, has been clear that the SU7 will not mirror the budget-friendly pricing strategy of its smartphones. Rather, with its high-performance capabilities and appealing design, the SU7's price might reflect its premium offering.

There will be two variants of the SU7 - the Xiaomi SU7 Max and the Xiaomi SU7 Standard. The Max version is set to deliver a whopping 670bhp and offer 838Nm of peak torque. Meanwhile, the Standard version will produce between 297bhp and 371bhp, with a peak torque of 635 Nm, proving that Xiaomi is not holding back in terms of power and performance.

As the Xiaomi SU7 starts to appear in dealerships across China, CEO Lei Jun has hinted at a price point under 500,000 yuan (approximately $69,000 or Rs 57 lakh). In a competitive EV landscape, the SU7 aims to carve out its niche, leveraging Xiaomi's prowess in consumer electronics.

The integration of internally developed CTB (Cell-to-Body) technology is a testament to this, as it not only enhances the vehicle's structural rigidity but also creates a more spacious cabin by eliminating the floor and reducing height.

With impressive claims of range and power, coupled with innovative technology, the SU7 is Xiaomi's bid to transition from being China's fifth-largest smartphone maker to a significant player in the EV space. As the SU7 makes its way to showrooms, it draws attention not just for its specifications, but as a symbol of Xiaomi's evolving portfolio.