If you still aren't taking China's EVs seriously, here's further proof that you should. A caged, stripped-out Xiaomi SU7 Ultra prototype lapped the Nürburgring Nordschleife in just 6 minutes, 22 seconds—24 seconds quicker than its previous lap set in 2024. That means an electric prototype from China is quicker than any production car—gas-powered or otherwise—around the legendary circuit.
After seeing the numbers, we aren't surprised. This SU7 Ultra prototype makes 1,548 horsepower from its tri-motor configuration, able to zoom to 62 miles per hour in just 1.98 seconds and on to a top speed of 217 mph. This particular car is not a production model, but a stripped-out, caged track car that's been lightweighted to improve performance. It also used full-on racing slicks for maximum grip.
Only three vehicles have ever lapped the Nürburgring quicker: the Porsche 919 Hybrid Evo, the Volkswagen ID.R, and the Porsche 956, back in 1983. Xiaomi says it was able to achieve this time "under optimal conditions," which were likely cooler and cloudier than the time set last year.
While you won't be able to buy this one-off record-smasher, Xiaomi is launching a new Nürburgring edition for its road-going SU7 Ultra sedan to celebrate. You get a roll cage and a host of carbon fiber trim, including a carbon hood and a carbon rear spoiler. Underneath, there are carbon underbody aero panels that add up to 97 pounds of downforce. Inside, you get a set of sweet Sparco bucket seats embroidered with the Nürburgring's logo, as well as six-point harnesses.
The Nürburgring edition also comes standard with the SU7 Ultra's Track package, which includes things like Endless brake pads, Bilstein EVO R height-adjustable coilovers, a carbon fiber roof, and 21-inch wheels wrapped in Pirelli Trofeo RS tires.
Xiaomi plans to build just 100 examples of the SU7 Ultra Nürburgring edition, priced from 814,900 Chinese Yuan, or around $114,000. Like all Chinese-branded vehicles, you won't be able to purchase this one in the United States. A shame.
