Tokyo Debut Signals Aggressive Retail Strategy
Xiaomi just made its first physical EV splash outside of China, showcasing the high-performance SU7 Ultra sedan in Akihabara, Tokyo. The exhibition, running from September 26-28, wasn't just a car show—it was a strategic reveal of the company's dual-pronged attack on the Japanese market.
EV Sales Strategy Mirroring China
The Chinese tech titan plans to use its growing network of Xiaomi Stores in Japan to sell the electric vehicles, a model that proved successful domestically. While the SU7 Ultra—which starts at ¥529,900 in China (approx. RM314,000)—doesn't have an official launch date yet, the move confirms their intent to enter the Japanese automotive scene.
Retail Network Expansion
To support this plan, Xiaomi is significantly ramping up its Japanese retail footprint. They currently operate two stores in Saitama Prefecture and plan to add three more in the Tokyo/Chiba area before the year's end. These stores are vital, serving as combined showrooms for their smartphones, smart home gadgets, and now, potentially, their EVs.
For the die-hard fans, Xiaomi also launched detailed 1:18 scale models of the SU7 series, priced at ¥14,800 for the standard and ¥16,800 for the Ultra version.
Xiaomi SU7 Ultra Lands in Japan