Xiaomi’s electric vehicle division, Xiaomi EV, has established a new Architecture Department to define the technological framework for its next generation of smart electric vehicles, according to a report by Chinese media outlet 36Kr.
The new department brings together several heads of research and development divisions and reports directly to Lei Jun, Xiaomi’s founder, chairman, and chief executive officer. According to the report, Cui Qiang, formerly head of vehicle R&D, has joined the new department, while Wang Zhensuo, who previously led the company’s electric powertrain division, has taken over Cui’s former role.
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The Architecture Department will determine Xiaomi’s long-term technological direction and strategy, guiding the development of future models and strengthening the company’s competitive position in the global EV market. “The outcomes of this department will shape the technological direction of Xiaomi’s next-generation products, serving as a critical response to future competition and influencing its long-term market positioning,” 36Kr cited a source as saying.
Unlike traditional automakers, where similar functions typically fall under the purview of secondary R&D units or project teams reporting to the CTO, Xiaomi has elevated this function to a first-tier department under direct CEO oversight. The move underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and its ambition to establish a strong technological foundation for its automotive business.
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Founded in 2021, Xiaomi EV officially launched its first model, the SU7 electric sedan, on March 28, 2024, positioning it as a competitor to Tesla’s Model 3. The company has since introduced the SU7 Ultra, a performance-enhanced version of the sedan, and the YU7, its first electric SUV aimed at rivaling the Tesla Model Y.
Lei Jun has emphasized that success in the EV market will depend on scale and innovation. “Smart EVs may be the same as the consumer electronics and software industries, which are winner-take-all,” Lei said in a January 2024 interview with state broadcaster CCTV. “Even though we are entering the extremely competitive automotive space, I still believe Xiaomi can win in the end.”