Xiaomi, a Chinese tech and car maker, has introduced the SkyNomad N90, a three-row crossover under its new sub-brand called SkyNomad. The N90 is about 208 inches long, approximately ten inches longer than a Kia EV9.
The SkyNomad N90 is an extended-range EV (EREV), and its introduction marks Xiaomi’s entry into China’s growing market of large three-row premium crossovers.
Design and Features
The N90 has a distinct design that sets it apart from Xiaomi’s existing cars, the SU7 and YU7. It features a boxy and upright SUV design, which is intentional, according to Xiaomi. The vehicle is meant to be more family and lifestyle-oriented, with three rows of seats and a length that makes it one of the larger SUVs in its class.
Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun says the N90 is designed to “adapt freely, the way you want to.” The company has released some interior features, including the ability for both front seats to rotate 180 degrees and a couple of table options.
Powertrain and Competition
While Xiaomi has been quiet about the powertrain of the N90, China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has revealed some key details. The N90 features a 1.5-liter turbocharged gas engine and a dual electric motor setup fed by a large battery. However, the output of its electric motors, gas engine, and battery size have not been confirmed yet.
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The SkyNomad N90 will compete with other big, three-row EVs and EREVs in China, such as the Nio ES8, Aito M9, and Li Auto L9. Despite the crowded field, Xiaomi has a track record of successfully carving out niches in crowded markets with its SU7 and YU7 cars.
In the middle of this crowded field, it’s worth considering how the SkyNomad N90 compares to other attempts by tech companies to enter the automotive market. For instance, some companies have focused on electric vehicles as a way to differentiate themselves, while others have emphasized advanced technology features. Xiaomi’s approach with the SkyNomad N90 will be closely watched, as it attempts to balance its tech expertise with the demands of the automotive market.
The N90’s design, while familiar, has some notable features, including thin wraparound lights at the rear that resemble those found on the Zeekr 9x. The front of the vehicle is a little blank, and the surfacing is a bit nonchalant, but overall, the N90 has a stylish and modern look.
As Xiaomi enters this new market, it will be interesting to see how the SkyNomad N90 performs. If it can match the success of the SU7 and YU7, it could be a significant player in China’s growing EV market.
