The launch of Xiaomi's new SUV, the YU7, has been put on hold following a fatal accident involving one of the brand's cars in China.
Xiaomi's plans to launch an SUV, called the YU7, have been put on hold. At least for the time being.
This follows a serious fatal accident involving the SU7 model. A car with active autopilot was involved in the incident.
Tech company Xiaomi is relatively new to the automotive industry. They are otherwise best known for their mobile phones and other electronics. Their first electric car, the SU7 sedan, recently hit the market.
The accident occurred on a highway in China. Three people lost their lives when their Xiaomi SU7 crashed into a concrete barrier. The car subsequently burst into flames, according to reports.
Chinese police are now investigating the tragic incident. They are specifically looking into the role of the car's self-driving system. The autopilot was reportedly activated during the intersection.
As a result of the accident and the investigation, the launch of the YU7, which was originally scheduled to be unveiled at the Shanghai Motor Show, has been postponed. A planned investor conference has also been postponed indefinitely.
Investigation of SU7 accident and autopilot
The new YU7 is Xiaomi's take on an electric SUV. It was expected to hit the market in June or July. It was meant to compete in the growing electric SUV market.
The SU7 model has received a lot of attention since its introduction. Even Ford's CEO has tested the car. He even praised the car so much that it sparked internal criticism.
The automotive industry is generally experiencing increased competition these years. More technology companies are moving into the car market. Some even fear that more car brands will go bankrupt. Read more about it here .
Bill Russo from the consulting firm Automobility comments on the accident.
– The problem with the self-driving features is that they make people think they can be less attentive (in traffic, ed.)
“You still have to monitor the car,” he tells Bloomberg .
The future of Xiaomi's electric cars and technology
It is currently unknown when Xiaomi will resume plans for the YU7. The company is likely awaiting the outcome of the police investigation. The accident naturally creates uncertainty about the cars' safety systems.
The delay could potentially affect Xiaomi's position in the competitive electric car market. Timing for new launches is often crucial. Both customers and investors will be following developments closely.
The incident brings renewed focus to the safety of self-driving technology in general. The discussion about liability and reliability continues unabated, and this is where drivers' trust in the cars is crucial.
