Xiaomi’s much-anticipated third vehicle, the YU9 Hybrid SUV, has entered a crucial stage of development, as prototypes were recently spotted undergoing rigorous high-altitude testing in the mountainous regions of Xinjiang, China.
The confirmation came directly from Xiaomi’s founder, chairman, and CEO, Lei Jun, who shared updates and images from the testing site, suggesting that the company is nearing the final phase before an official launch.
Extreme Testing on the Pamir Plateau
Lei Jun revealed that the test team is currently based in Tashkurgan, Xinjiang, at an elevation exceeding 4,000 meters, near the Kunlun Mountains.
This high-altitude environment is known for its thin air, low temperatures, and intense UV radiation—perfect conditions for pushing the vehicle’s endurance to its limits.
The team is also driving the YU9 along the Panlong Ancient Road, a treacherous 30 km mountain route featuring over 600 sharp turns and elevations surpassing 3,500 meters.
More than 20 Xiaomi engineers, along with senior executives such as automotive advisor Hu Zhengnan, are part of this large-scale test operation.
Their focus is on evaluating the SUV’s battery performance, hybrid efficiency, and UV resistance, which are essential for real-world reliability.
This extensive testing routine mirrors Xiaomi’s final trials for its first EV, the SU7 sedan, which gained widespread acclaim for its robust performance.
Powertrain and Expected Specifications
The upcoming Xiaomi YU9 is widely speculated to be a range-extended hybrid SUV (PHEV)—a departure from Xiaomi’s earlier all-electric models, the SU7 and YU7.
Earlier spy shots revealing an exhaust system strongly support this assumption, highlighting Xiaomi’s move toward offering greater versatility and longer range.
Expected Specifications of Xiaomi YU9:
Powertrain: Range-Extended Hybrid (PHEV)
Battery: Estimated 80-kWh unit with over 400 km electric-only range
Dimensions: D-segment SUV measuring over 5.2 meters in length and 1.8 meters in height
Technology: Expected integration of LiDAR sensors for advanced driver-assistance (ADAS) features
According to reports, the Xiaomi YU9 is targeting a 2026 market debut, aligning with a Deutsche Bank forecast.
While Xiaomi has not yet disclosed full technical details, the intensity of the current testing phase suggests that the YU9 is nearing production readiness.
Once launched, this hybrid SUV will play a central role in expanding Xiaomi’s automotive lineup, strengthening its position in the rapidly growing global hybrid and electric vehicle market.