Ford CEO Jim Farley has recently turned heads by choosing an unexpected daily driver: the Xiaomi SU7 electric vehicle (EV). As the leader of one of America’s most iconic automakers, Farley’s decision to drive a Chinese-made EV for the past six months—and his glowing praise for it—has sparked curiosity. This article explores how Ford CEO Drives Xiaomi SU7 EV.
What is the Xiaomi SU7?
The Xiaomi SU7 marks the bold entry of Chinese tech giant Xiaomi—best known for smartphones and consumer electronics—into the electric vehicle market. Launched in March 2024, this compact battery-electric sedan has taken China by storm. Priced at an affordable starting point of around $30,000, the SU7 combines cutting-edge technology with competitive performance. Key features include:
- Range: Over 500 miles on a single charge, rivaling top-tier EVs.
- Autonomous Driving: Advanced capabilities for a hands-free experience.
- Smart Integration: Seamless connectivity with Xiaomi’s ecosystem of devices.
- Design: A sleek, modern aesthetic that appeals to luxury sedan fans.
Since its debut, Xiaomi has delivered 135,000 units and secured over 248,000 orders, cementing the SU7’s status as a breakout hit in China’s booming EV market. Its success has even caught the eye of global industry leaders like Ford’s Jim Farley.
Jim Farley’s Experience with the Xiaomi SU7
In a revealing interview on The Fully Charged Podcast, Jim Farley, Ford’s CEO, shared his firsthand experience with the Xiaomi SU7. “I don’t like talking about the competition so much, but I drive the Xiaomi,” Farley admitted. “We flew one from Shanghai to Chicago, and I’ve been driving it for six months now, and I don’t want to give it up.” His enthusiasm is unmistakable—he called the SU7 “fantastic” and hailed Xiaomi as an “industry juggernaut” with a consumer brand that outshines many traditional automakers.
Farley’s decision to drive the SU7 daily isn’t just a personal preference; it’s a strategic move. By immersing himself in the competition, he’s gaining critical insights into the advancements driving the electric vehicle landscape—particularly from Chinese manufacturers like Xiaomi.
Implications for the Automotive Industry
Farley’s praise for the Xiaomi SU7 underscores a seismic shift in the automotive world: the rise of Chinese EV manufacturers. Companies like Xiaomi, BYD, and NIO are churning out high-quality, affordable EVs that challenge the dominance of Western giants like Ford. The SU7’s success in China, coupled with Farley’s endorsement, signals that these brands are poised to make waves globally.
For Ford, this moment is a call to action. While the company has made strides with popular models like the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning, staying competitive requires relentless innovation. Farley’s hands-on approach with the SU7 reflects his commitment to understanding rivals and adapting to the fast-evolving EV market. It also highlights a broader truth: Western automakers can no longer dismiss Chinese EVs as regional players—they’re global contenders.
https://twitter.com/CarlZha/status/1848973647291289914
Is the Ford Ceo Driving a Xiaomi SU7 Car?
Conclusion
Jim Farley’s six-month journey with the Xiaomi SU7 is more than a personal anecdote; it’s a wake-up call for the automotive industry. As Chinese EV manufacturers like Xiaomi innovate and expand, traditional powerhouses like Ford must evolve to keep pace. Farley’s willingness to embrace and learn from the competition showcases his forward-thinking leadership. The future of driving is undeniably electric, and with players like Xiaomi leading the charge, the road ahead promises to be both exciting and fiercely competitive.