- Xiaomi may launch a new sub-brand named Skynomad to enter the highly competitive extended-range family SUV market.
- The new brand's models will feature large-capacity battery solutions and directly rival popular family vehicles like the Li L9.
Chinese tech giant Xiaomi (HKG: 1810) is rumored to be launching a second auto brand to focus on the fiercely competitive extended-range family sport utility vehicle (SUV) market.
Xiaomi's new sub-brand may be named Skynomad in English, and its market positioning will be slightly lower than the main Xiaomi EV brand for differentiated competition, according to reports by Chinese auto media Yiche and Auto Home on Thursday.
The Skynomad brand is expected to launch two major product series, with the Kunlun series serving as the core driver of sales, according to Yiche.
In addition, the brand plans to introduce the Mandao series pop-top camper vans to enrich its product lineup, the report said.
Recently leaked road test spy shots further corroborate the tech giant's ambition to expand its product line. The photos show what appears to be the test vehicle for Xiaomi's first full-size extended-range SUV.
The new model, internally codenamed Kunlun, adopts a new boxy and rugged exterior design language. A LiDAR bump on the roof suggests it will be equipped with an advanced driver assistance system.
In terms of powertrain, the new car is expected to feature a large battery pack with a capacity of over 70 kilowatt-hours. This will provide the vehicle with a pure electric range of about 400 to 500 kilometers.
The large SUV, expected to measure over 5,200 millimeters in length, will directly rival popular models like Li Auto's (NASDAQ: LI) Li L9. The new vehicle is expected to be released between the second half and the end of 2026.
The potential launch of a second brand is part of Xiaomi's 2026 expansion plan and efforts to enrich its product matrix.
In addition to this full-size SUV, Xiaomi also plans to release the high-performance pure electric SUV model YU7 GT at the end of May. The model is expected to be priced between 450,000 yuan ($66,130) and 500,000 yuan.
Xiaomi EV achieved a strong sales recovery in April, with single-month deliveries exceeding 30,000 units. The company has set its full-year vehicle delivery target for 2026 at 550,000 units.
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