Category: EV vehicles

  • Hyundai Ups Its Game Against Tesla with 48V System Upgrade

    Hyundai Ups Its Game Against Tesla with 48V System Upgrade

    Key Takeaways

    1. Hyundai is set to become the first major car manufacturer to transition its entire fleet from a 12V to a 48V electrical system by 2029.
    2. The shift to a 48V system is necessary for advanced vehicle features like autonomous driving and multimedia systems.
    3. Hyundai is revamping its vehicle electronics supply chain, focusing on a comprehensive 48V architecture rather than partial implementations.
    4. The company aims to create cost savings by developing 48V components that can be used for both vehicles and humanoid robots.
    5. Hyundai’s robotics division, expanded through the acquisition of Boston Dynamics, is also focusing on 48V systems for its humanoid robots.


    Hyundai is on track to be the first major car manufacturer to transition its entire fleet from the outdated 12V low-voltage system to a more modern 48V architecture.

    Upcoming Robot Competitors

    This change will also include Hyundai’s forthcoming humanoid robot competitors, which are being developed through its acquisition of Boston Dynamics.

    Hyundai, similar to Tesla with the Cybertruck, has recognized that the traditional 12V low-voltage system, which has powered vehicle electronics since the 1950s, is inadequate. Advanced features such as autonomous driving assistance, multimedia systems, and drive-by-wire capabilities demand a higher voltage to function effectively.

    Benefits of the 48V System

    Tesla has indicated that switching from a 12V to a 48V system allowed them to significantly reduce wiring and provide sufficient power for the motors used in rear-wheel steering. While the Cybertruck and certain other models utilize a 48V low-voltage system, they only apply it where it is practical.

    For example, the Cybertruck employs a lower voltage converter for its audio amplifiers, and in case the 48V battery fails, a standard 12V jump starter kit can be utilized.

    Hyundai’s Ambitious Plans

    In contrast, Hyundai is requesting its suppliers to completely revamp vehicle electronics to support a comprehensive 48V architecture. Understanding that this is a monumental task that can’t be completed quickly, the company intends to gradually build a 48V electronics supply chain by 2029. This approach aims to reduce the costs associated with this significant transition.

    Tesla also aimed for a similar outcome by making its 48V architecture manual publicly available for other automakers, hoping that as adoption grows, prices for these components will decrease. However, rather than partnering with Tesla or Chinese manufacturers, Hyundai is choosing to independently pursue this path to protect its supplier network. “The key is to maintain the hardware and software ecosystem for four years while slightly reducing profitability and changing the SDV and electrical component standard voltage,” revealed an insider.

    Robotics Division Expansion

    Following its acquisition of Boston Dynamics, Hyundai has established a substantial robotics division that is working on humanoid robots similar to Tesla’s Optimus, which also operates on a 48V system. The company aims to achieve additional cost savings by creating 48V electrical and electronic components that can be used interchangeably in both vehicle and robot production.

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  • Tesla Model Y Robotaxi Ride Prices Expand Beyond Waymo Areas

    Tesla Model Y Robotaxi Ride Prices Expand Beyond Waymo Areas

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla has expanded its robotaxi service area beyond Waymo’s in Austin and raised ride fares by 65%, from $4.20 to $6.9.
    2. The new fare is a fixed price for rides, aimed at testing the Robotaxi app and payment system rather than generating profit.
    3. Tesla’s robotaxi service currently covers about 7% of Waymo’s area, with plans for further expansion to cities like San Francisco.
    4. Future two-seater Cybercabs may lower the cost per mile to around 25 cents, making the service more competitive.
    5. Cybercabs will use wireless charging and automatic cleaning, indicating advanced features for the Robotaxi platform in the future.


    The Tesla Robotaxi ride-share service has now expanded its reach beyond Waymo’s area in Austin, where it is currently running a pilot program.

    Price Increase

    In just three weeks since launching, Tesla has significantly increased the size of the geofenced robotaxi service area and, in a rather cheeky move, has also raised the ride fare. The cost of a robotaxi ride has jumped by an eye-catching 65%, soaring from $4.20 to the new price of $6.9.

    Elon Musk often includes the number 420 as a fun Easter egg, and with Tesla fans urging him to play with the number 69 ahead of the Robotaxi launch, this new fare might just be a playful joke—similar to the shape of the expanded service area on the map.

    Testing the Waters

    This $6.9 charge is a fixed price, no matter how many miles are traveled. The purpose of this pricing is not to recover operational costs or generate profit for Tesla, but mainly to test the Robotaxi app and its payment system.

    Currently, the Tesla Robotaxi platform covers about 7% of Waymo’s overall service area in the US, with plans to expand to San Francisco and other cities by year-end. This growth will necessitate Tesla to establish more realistic pricing soon, allowing for a fair comparison of its Robotaxi service with other ride-share options in the market.

    Future Prospects

    Elon Musk has stated that when the two-seater Cybercabs begin robotaxi service next year and are produced in larger quantities, the cost per mile could potentially drop to as low as 25 cents, making them highly competitive.

    However, the Cybercab won’t be able to utilize Superchargers or a Tesla wall connector; instead, they will be charged wirelessly on special pads and cleaned automatically by robots. This hints at exciting developments ahead for the Robotaxi platform, extending beyond its current trial in Austin.

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  • Google Maps Now Available on Rivian R1T and R1S for Better Navigation

    Google Maps Now Available on Rivian R1T and R1S for Better Navigation

    Key Takeaways

    1. Rivian is integrating Google Maps into the R1T and R1S vehicles to improve navigation and address user complaints about the current system.
    2. Users have reported issues with Rivian’s existing navigation software, including inefficient routing and inaccurate ETAs.
    3. The update (version 2025.22) will replace the Mapbox platform, providing enhanced navigation features and real-time data from Google Maps.
    4. New features include tappable points of interest and satellite imagery, accessible with a Connect+ subscription.
    5. The update also introduces the Launch Cam feature for performance tracking and improvements in ride comfort and roll control for second-generation models.


    Rivian drivers have been experiencing some challenges with the standard navigation system found in the R1T and R1S electric vehicles. Many have been requesting a superior option or a complete overhaul, and Rivian has finally responded. The company has revealed that it will now be integrating Google Maps into their vehicles, which will provide more precise estimated times of arrival (ETAs), dependable navigation, and a host of features from Google Maps, including satellite imagery.

    Navigation Complaints

    Rivian’s current Mapbox-based software has drawn several complaints from users regarding navigation. Many posts on the Rivian subreddit highlight frustrations with inefficient routing, incorrect ETAs, and insufficient traffic updates. With the rollout of update version 2025.22 for both the first (2022 to 2024) and second-generation (2025) R1T and R1S electric vehicles, Google Maps will be fully incorporated into the Rivian navigation system, effectively replacing the Mapbox platform.

    Enhanced User Experience

    “This collaboration offers drivers the best of both worlds: leading mapping technology and updated data from Google Maps, combined with Rivian’s design and core EV-friendly features. Customers can look forward to high-quality navigation along with the Rivian user interface and essential functionalities like range on arrival estimates, charging scores, and choosing charging stops,” reads the official announcement regarding the update.

    The new features include tappable points of interest (POIs), allowing users to touch on locations of interest on the map to learn more about them. Additionally, the satellite imagery feature from Google Maps will also be part of this update, but users will need the Connect+ subscription to access it.

    Exciting New Features

    Moreover, the update introduces features such as the Launch Cam for the second-generation tri-motor and quad-motor models. This feature lets users capture Launch mode from five different camera angles while also providing live telemetry overlays detailing peak G-force, reaction times, 0-60 mph times, and quarter-mile performance. The second-generation vehicles will also benefit from new control software designed to enhance ride comfort and improve roll control during cornering maneuvers.

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  • Recycling Tesla Car Batteries for Autonomous Transport Robots

    Recycling Tesla Car Batteries for Autonomous Transport Robots

    Key Takeaways

    1. Daedong Robotics has launched the RT100, an agricultural robot powered by repurposed Tesla vehicle batteries, highlighting innovative recycling practices.
    2. Poen specializes in upcycling EV batteries by testing and remanufacturing decommissioned Tesla battery cells into new packs for the RT100.
    3. The RT100 can follow farmers, assist in harvesting, and navigate uneven terrain with a load capacity of 300 kg and a speed of 5 mph.
    4. AI functionality allows the RT100 to respond to voice commands through the Daedong app, enhancing its usability in agricultural tasks.
    5. Companies like Redwood Materials demonstrate that over 95% of valuable materials from EV batteries can be recycled, promoting sustainability in energy solutions.


    Decommissioned batteries from older Tesla vehicles are now being repurposed to power autonomous transport robots used in agriculture.

    Innovations in Agricultural Robotics

    Daedong Robotics, known for its automated lawnmowers akin to the well-known Segway Navimow in the United States, has launched the RT100. This compact robot is designed for agricultural tasks and is powered by used battery cells sourced from Tesla cars. This initiative not only showcases recycling practices but also highlights the potential for reusing electric vehicle batteries.

    Collaboration for Sustainable Energy

    The RT100 features replaceable battery modules supplied by Poen, a company specializing in upcycling EV batteries. Poen tests individual cylindrical LG cells from decommissioned Tesla packs and disassembles those that still have enough capacity. They repair and remanufacture these cells into new battery packs, providing an economical power source for Daedong’s agricultural robots.

    Smart Functionality in the Field

    The RT100 follows farmers around, adjusting its loading bed to assist in collecting harvested fruit, then transports the produce to unload before heading back. With a 4×4 drivetrain, it is capable of navigating uneven ground and can easily maneuver in tight orchard spaces.

    The RT100 has a maximum load capacity of approximately 300 kg, or 662 pounds, and can reach speeds of five miles per hour. Additionally, it features AI functionality that allows it to respond to voice commands from its operator through the dedicated Daedong app.

    Recycling for a Greener Future

    According to Redwood Materials, a leading force in battery recycling and led by Tesla co-founder JB Straubel, more than 95% of valuable materials like lithium, nickel, and cobalt can be recovered after an electric vehicle battery pack’s life has ended.

    Like the collaborative efforts of Daedong and Poen, Redwood is also involved in EV battery upcycling initiatives. They are working on projects such as creating an energy storage system for local grids using old EV battery cells, demonstrating the practicality of these recycling efforts.

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  • Tesla Launches in New Country to Boost Sales Amid Challenges

    Tesla Launches in New Country to Boost Sales Amid Challenges

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is planning to open its first showroom in Mumbai, with potential deliveries starting in August.
    2. The company faces significant challenges due to high import taxes (70%) on cars manufactured abroad, which could raise prices for Indian consumers.
    3. Previous discussions about building a local factory in India did not progress, increasing reliance on exports.
    4. Tesla is exploring the Indian market without full commitment, assessing potential demand before long-term investment.
    5. India’s growing awareness of environmental issues and advancements in electric vehicle technology could influence Tesla’s success in the market.


    For a number of months, Tesla has been seeing a steady drop in sales, and the company led by Elon Musk is on the lookout for new markets globally. India, home to more than one billion people, is a promising market, if the people there show interest in Tesla’s vehicles.

    Tesla’s Plans for India

    Bloomberg News has reported that the electric and self-driving car maker is planning to open its first showroom in Mumbai, with deliveries potentially starting as soon as August. Additionally, Tesla announced this initiative on social media, particularly on X, where they created an Indian account and shared a photo of the Mumbai skyline with the text: “Coming soon.”

    Challenges Ahead

    However, entering this market poses significant challenges for the American firm. It’s important to note that the pricing dynamics are quite different, influenced by lower wages and wealth levels in India compared to the US. To complicate matters, Tesla will need to export cars that are already manufactured, facing a hefty 70% import tax, as reported by Reuters. This could lead to Tesla’s prices soaring, making them less accessible for many Indians.

    Future Considerations

    Moreover, it’s worth mentioning that Tesla had previously initiated talks with Indian officials about constructing a factory locally. Unfortunately, those discussions did not progress. Establishing a factory in India would have helped mitigate several challenges, like the import taxes that will now apply.

    Consequently, many uncertainties linger regarding this situation. It’s plausible that Tesla intends to explore the Indian market before committing to a long-term operation. Additionally, India is currently witnessing rapid advancements in this sector along with an increasing awareness of environmental concerns. Therefore, it will be essential to keep a close eye on the outcomes of this venture to determine if it succeeds, helping the company to flourish, or if it ends up being another setback that could jeopardize its future.

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  • Xiaomi Reaches 300,000 Cars in Just 15 Months of Production

    Xiaomi Reaches 300,000 Cars in Just 15 Months of Production

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi has delivered over 300,000 cars in about 15 months since launching the SU7.
    2. The shipping time for the last 200,000 vehicles (232 days) was similar to the first 100,000 (230 days).
    3. Xiaomi currently offers two models: the SU7 sedan and the YU7 SUV, with significant pre-orders for the YU7.
    4. Plans to expand into Extended-Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs) are in the works.
    5. Xiaomi aims to enter the European market, having achieved all automotive success in China so far.


    Xiaomi has been active in the Automotive Division since April 2024, and they are now stating that they have delivered over 300,000 cars in the approximately 15 months since the SU7 was introduced.

    Shipping Timeline

    Interestingly, the time it took to ship the last roughly 200,000 vehicles is about the same as the time it took to reach the first 100,000. It took 232 days for the former, while the latter was achieved in 230 days.

    Xiaomi credits this rapid growth to the improvement of its car business infrastructure, which has apparently “exploded” to meet the high demand for its vehicles.

    Current Models

    At this moment, Xiaomi offers only two models: the SU7 sedan and the YU7 SUV.

    Both of these vehicles come in various versions, with the SU7 Ultra being the most well-known. This performance model is so popular that it can now be selected in Gran Turismo 7.

    In addition, Xiaomi claims to have received at least 240,000 pre-orders for the YU7.

    There are also reports of an Ultra version of the YU7, as well as a new, larger SUV model.

    Future Plans

    So far, all of Xiaomi’s cars have been electric vehicles (EVs), but they supposedly have plans to expand into Extended-Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs) soon.

    Lastly, all of Xiaomi’s automotive achievements have taken place in China, but it looks like they are aiming to enter the European market in the near future.

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  • PM2.5 Pollution from EV Charging May Raise Lung and Heart Risks

    PM2.5 Pollution from EV Charging May Raise Lung and Heart Risks

    Key Takeaways

    1. PM2.5 particles are smaller than 2.5 micrometers and can penetrate deeper into the body, making them more harmful than PM10 particles.
    2. Children living in high PM2.5 areas experience slower lung development, leading to smaller lungs by age 18.
    3. PM2.5 is linked to approximately 2,800 hospital admissions for heart and lung diseases and about 6,700 emergency visits for asthma each year in California.
    4. Research from UCLA found that PM2.5 levels at fast-charging EV stations were significantly higher than in urban areas without these stations.
    5. Power cabinets at level 3 EV chargers are a major source of PM2.5 emissions, with levels exceeding 300 micrograms per cubic meter, unlike level 1 and level 2 chargers that produce lower emissions.


    PM2.5 is a term that describes tiny particles that are 2.5 micrometers or smaller in size. While both PM2.5 and PM10 can harm health, PM2.5 is considered more dangerous because it can go deeper into the body.

    Impact on Children’s Health

    A study from the California Air Resources Board showed that kids who live in high PM2.5 areas have slower lung development. By the time they reach 18, their lungs are smaller than those of kids from areas with lower PM2.5 levels. Furthermore, PM2.5 is linked to around 2,800 hospital admissions for heart and lung diseases and approximately 6,700 emergency visits for asthma annually in California. There are also other health issues connected to PM2.5.

    Findings from UCLA Researchers

    A recent investigation by researchers at UCLA analyzed daily PM2.5 levels at fast-charging EV stations, finding concentrations between 7.2 and 39 micrograms per cubic meter. These figures are considerably higher than those recorded in urban areas without these charging stations, which were between 3.6 and 12.4 micrograms per cubic meter.

    To make their study reliable, the researchers checked air quality at urban locations like gas stations, not only in residential neighborhoods. They evaluated air quality at 50 EV charging stations across 47 cities in Los Angeles County.

    Source of Emissions

    The researchers discovered that PM2.5 levels near power cabinets reached over 300 micrograms per cubic meter at times. This indicates that power cabinets, which convert alternating current to direct current in level 3 chargers, are a main source of emissions. In contrast, level 1 and level 2 EV chargers use AC power and do not require power cabinets, resulting in lower PM2.5 emissions.

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  • Tesla Model Y Price Cut: Navigating Canada Tariffs as Delays Grow

    Tesla Model Y Price Cut: Navigating Canada Tariffs as Delays Grow

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla has cut the price of the Model Y in Canada by CA$20,000, reducing it from CA$84,990 to CA$64,990.
    2. Delivery times for the Model Y have increased, with customers facing waits from a few weeks to September-October.
    3. The price drop and delivery delays may be influenced by a 25% tariff imposed on US goods by Canada.
    4. Tesla plans to import Model Y units from its Berlin Gigafactory to avoid high import tariffs and regain market share.
    5. European car imports to Canada do not face tariffs, while vehicles from Tesla’s Giga Shanghai factory incur a 100% tariff.


    Tesla has made a significant change to the price of the Model Y in Canada, slashing it by a remarkable CA$20,000. This reduction brings the price down from CA$84,990 (which is about 62,025 US dollars) to CA$64,990. In the US, the same Model Y Long Range RWD model has a starting price of $48,990, which is more than 20% lower than the Canadian price.

    Delivery Delays

    Alongside this major price cut, there’s been a noticeable increase in delivery times. Customers now face a wait that stretches from a few weeks to the September-October timeframe. To help ease the waiting period, Tesla has also introduced a new color option for the Model Y called Diamond Black, which was previously only available in the US.

    Tariffs Impacting Prices

    The significant price drop and the extended delivery time suggest that tariffs might be influencing these changes. Canada imposed a 25% reciprocal tariff on US goods following similar actions taken by the Trump administration. This tariff had previously caused Tesla to raise its prices in Canada back in May.

    Since then, Tesla has been managing to sell vehicles at prices prior to the tariffs, but that advantage is fading fast. The combination of a steep 25% price hike due to tariffs and Elon Musk’s controversial political stance in Canada has led to a sharp decline in sales in the region.

    Importing from Europe

    To regain some market share, Tesla is expected to start importing Model Y units from a factory that will only incur transportation fees, avoiding high import tariffs. The Berlin Gigafactory, which produces only Model Ys, appears to be the best option to navigate around the tariff issues in Canada.

    Interestingly, European car imports to Canada do not face tariffs, thanks to the CETA trade agreement signed between Canada and the EU. In contrast, vehicles imported from the Giga Shanghai factory now face a 100% tariff, while those from Giga Texas or Fremont have a 25% tariff due to reciprocal trade measures.

    The Trump administration has announced plans to escalate tariffs to 35%, with an additional 35% if Canada retaliates, which would make importing from the US even more impractical.

    This situation explains Tesla’s strategy to shift imports from Europe to bypass the newly established tariff barriers, resulting in longer wait times for Canadian customers awaiting their new Model Y as the company works to stabilize inventory levels and reduce delivery delays.

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  • Hyundai Ioniq 6 N vs Model 3 Performance: V8 Sounds, Slower Speed

    Hyundai Ioniq 6 N vs Model 3 Performance: V8 Sounds, Slower Speed

    Key Takeaways

    Performance Comparison: The Ioniq 6 N has 650 HP but is slower (0-60 mph in 3.1 seconds) and likely has a shorter range than Tesla’s Model 3 Performance (501 HP, 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds).

    Charging Speed and Size: The Ioniq 6 N offers faster charging (10% to 80% in 18 minutes with 350+ kW charger) despite being larger and heavier than the Model 3 Performance.

    Unique Features: The Ioniq 6 N includes Active Sound and e-Shift technologies, allowing drivers to choose engine sounds and has improved handling with new stroke sensing dampers.

    Pricing Information: The US price is not yet announced, but the Ioniq 6 N is expected to cost around £65,000 in the UK with a launch anticipated in early 2026.

    Estimated Range: The Ioniq 6 N is expected to have an estimated range of about 291 miles based on local standards.


    After the previous model won EV of the year in 2024, Hyundai has unveiled the impressive Ioniq 6 N sports sedan, ready to compete against the Tesla Model 3 Performance.

    Performance Comparison

    The Ioniq 6 N boasts 650 HP, but it is slower and likely has a shorter range on a single charge, along with a higher cost compared to Tesla’s 501 HP Performance sedan. The new dual-motor Ioniq 6 N can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds, which is a tad slower than the Model 3 Performance’s 2.9 seconds, even with its more powerful engine and the larger 84 kWh battery.

    Charging Speed and Size

    Despite being larger and heavier than the Model 3 Performance, the sporty Hyundai Ioniq 6 N offers much quicker charging capabilities. With an appropriate 350+ kW charger, like Tesla’s V4 Superchargers, it can charge from 10% to 80% in merely 18 minutes. Hyundai’s EVs have shown to have a better charging curve when compared to Tesla’s vehicles, even those built on an 800V architecture, like the Cybertruck.

    Unique Features

    One of the most exciting aspects of the Ioniq 6 N is its blend of Active Sound and e-Shift technologies, designed to mimic the experience of driving a real internal combustion engine racer. Drivers can pick from various sounds, including a traditional V8 rumble with the Ignition option, Evolution’s EV heritage tones, or the futuristic sounds of the Lightspeed selection.

    Hyundai claims they have revamped the chassis and suspension to improve handling, introducing new stroke sensing dampers that work well for both easy commutes and thrilling racetrack adventures.

    Pricing Information

    While the price of the Ioniq 6 N in the US is still under wraps, it is anticipated to cost around £65,000 in the UK upon its launch, expected in early 2026, with an estimated range of about 291 miles on local standards.

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  • Xiaomi YU7 Ultra with Camo Wrap and Performance Build Revealed

    Xiaomi YU7 Ultra with Camo Wrap and Performance Build Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi is set to launch the YU7 Ultra, a new version of its electric SUV, following the success of the SU7 Ultra supercar.
    2. The YU7 Ultra has been spotted with design features similar to the first YU7, including larger air intakes and flared wheel arches.
    3. The YU7 Ultra may produce up to 1,548 horsepower and 1,770 Nm of torque, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 2.5 seconds.
    4. The vehicle is expected to use the same platform as the SU7 Ultra, potentially featuring a 93.7 kWh battery.
    5. Xiaomi is currently facing production challenges with the standard YU7 and is rumored to be developing a larger model, the YU9, to expand its SUV lineup.


    Xiaomi has made waves in the supercar world with the Ultra edition of its SU7, and now, it seems like the company is set to shake things up in the SUV segment too, with a new version of the YU7 on the horizon.

    Sightings of the YU7 Ultra

    According to ChinaEVHome, the upcoming model has been spotted in the wild, although it was obscured by anti-leak camouflage during the sighting. Despite this, it is still clear that the vehicle shares similarities with Xiaomi’s first electric SUV, but with some noticeable differences, including larger air intakes and possibly the same flared wheel arches seen in the SU7 Ultra, as noted by ChinaEVHome.

    Power and Performance

    The “YU7 Ultra” is expected to utilize the same platform as its counterpart in the SU7 series, which could enable it to produce an impressive output of up to 1,548 horsepower (hp) and torque reaching 1,770 newton-meters (Nm). The vehicle’s acceleration is projected to be astonishing, with a 0-100 kilometers per hour (km/h) time of just 2.5 seconds, particularly if it features the same 93.7 kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery as the SU7 Ultra.

    Production Challenges

    In the meantime, Xiaomi appears to be struggling to keep up with orders for the standard version of the YU7. There are also rumors about a larger model, dubbed the “YU9,” which is expected to launch in the near future. This suggests that Xiaomi is looking to expand its offerings in the SUV market, even as it grapples with the challenges of fulfilling current demand.

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