Xiaomi is reportedly introducing new battery suppliers for its planned second automotive brand as the company expands further into China’s family-oriented SUV market.
According to Chinese media outlet 21jingji, Xiaomi has selected Sunwoda and CALB to supply batteries for a new extended-range SUV internally codenamed Kunlun N3.
The report cited unnamed sources familiar with the matter and said Sunwoda would account for 60% of the battery supply allocation, while CALB would provide the remaining 40%.
The new vehicle is expected to launch under a separate brand called Skynomad, which would operate independently from Xiaomi’s main EV lineup.
According to the report, the first Skynomad model is scheduled for release in the second half of 2026.
The Kunlun N3 is described as a full-size extended-range SUV measuring more than 5.3 metres long and targeting family buyers.
The model is expected to feature a battery pack exceeding 70 kilowatt-hours and deliver a pure electric driving range between 400 and 500 kilometres.
The report said the Skynomad brand is expected to target a lower price range of around 200,000 yuan ($29,450), positioning it below Xiaomi’s existing premium electric vehicle offerings.
The SUV is expected to compete directly with extended-range family models such as the Li Auto Li L9 from Li Auto.
According to the report, seven of China’s ten best-selling extended-range SUVs in 2025 were produced by Li Auto or Aito, the automotive brand backed by Huawei.
Xiaomi currently relies primarily on battery supplies from CATL and BYD for its existing SU7 and YU7 models.
The report said CATL accounted for more than 80% of Xiaomi EV battery supply volumes as of April 2026.
According to sources cited by 21jingji, Xiaomi is seeking greater flexibility and bargaining power within its battery supply chain by diversifying suppliers.
Both Sunwoda and CALB have expanded their presence in hybrid and extended-range battery systems.
Sunwoda’s cumulative hybrid battery installations have reportedly surpassed 1.5 million units, while CALB plans to begin large-scale deliveries of hybrid battery products during 2026.
Competition in China’s battery sector remains intense.
Data from the China Automotive Battery Innovation Alliance showed CATL held a 46.64% share of China’s battery market in April 2026, while BYD ranked second with 16.83%.
CALB ranked fourth with a 6.26% market share and Sunwoda ranked ninth with 2.40%.
The reported expansion into a second automotive brand comes as Xiaomi accelerates growth in its EV business.
According to data compiled by CnEVPost, cumulative Xiaomi EV deliveries approached 700,000 units by the end of April 2026.
The company’s monthly vehicle deliveries exceeded 30,000 units in April, and Xiaomi has set a full-year delivery target of 550,000 vehicles for 2026.