XIAOMI SU7 ULTRA VS TESLA MODEL S PLAID: DRAG RACE

EV Channels Review

In a highly anticipated drag race, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra faced off against the Tesla Model S Plaid. Despite the Tesla's established performance credentials and higher price point, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra, boasting significantly more horsepower (1548hp vs 1020hp) and torque, proved to be a formidable competitor. The initial drag races saw the Tesla take the lead off the line, attributed to better tire warm-up and driver reaction, but the Xiaomi consistently closed the gap and ultimately won the standing quarter-mile race with a time of 9.3 seconds, compared to the Tesla's 9.5 seconds. The Xiaomi's performance was hampered in early runs by battery overheating and potential power limitations, issues that were resolved in the final deciding race. In rolling races, the Xiaomi demonstrated superior persistence and acceleration, particularly at higher speeds. The Tesla, however, showed better initial bite and a more consistent performance across multiple launches. A notable point was the Xiaomi's standard carbon ceramic brakes on a sub-£60,000 car, a feature costing significantly more on the Tesla. While the Tesla's brakes showed wear, the Xiaomi's held up well. Ultimately, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra delivered a surprisingly strong performance, challenging the notion that premium price equates to outright performance, especially in the EV segment.