Xiaomi has opened its first European research and development centre in Munich, Germany – marking what the company calls a “pivotal milestone” in the performance EV brand’s global expansion plans.
The new facility represents Xiaomi’s first R&D centre outside China. It’s designed to support the company’s push into international markets as it prepares to bring its first vehicles to Europe by 2027.
From Smartphones to Supercars
Xiaomi originally built its reputation making smartphones and tablets before launching its first car in 2023. The company’s automotive division has focused primarily on meeting demand in China, where its SU7 performance saloon broke multiple records.
President William Lu outlined ambitious goals during an August investor meeting.
He told investors that Xiaomi wants to become one of the world’s five biggest car companies. A European presence sits at the center of that strategy.
European Focus and Standards
The Munich centre will concentrate on performance vehicle projects, EV technology development, and design innovation. Engineers and designers there will collaborate with teams in China to adapt Xiaomi’s models for international markets.
The facility’s primary mission involves ensuring Xiaomi’s vehicles meet European safety requirements and driver expectations.
Xiaomi hasn’t confirmed which specific vehicles will arrive in Europe or whether they’ll reach the UK market. Industry observers expect the company to bring both the SU7 performance saloon and the YU7 SUV to European showrooms.
These models would likely compete directly with the Porsche Taycan and Tesla Model Y respectively.
Global Innovation Network
A company spokesperson emphasized the strategic importance of the Munich operation during the facility’s announcement.
“The establishment of the Munich R&D and design centres underscores Xiaomi EV’s commitment to building a global innovation network,” the spokesperson said. “By leveraging world-class competences and ecosystem, Xiaomi EV accelerates breakthroughs in intelligent driving and vehicle dynamics.”
The expansion strengthens Xiaomi’s ability to deliver what it calls vehicles that “truly inspire and are renowned for their performance.” The company also stressed its commitment to ensuring products align with global safety and quality standards.
The 2027 timeline gives Xiaomi roughly three years to finalize its European strategy and complete regulatory approvals. That timeline also allows the company to observe how other Chinese EV manufacturers fare in European markets during the intervening period.
