Xiaomi EV Owners Report Drop in Performance: Xiaomi EV owners report a drop in performance following the latest software update—and it’s got folks talking. Specifically, drivers of the SU7 Ultra, Xiaomi’s high-performance electric vehicle, have noticed significant changes that weren’t advertised up front. If you own one, you may have already felt it: slower acceleration, delayed launch control, and a much more conservative power output.
In this article, we’ll break down what’s going on, what Xiaomi says about it, and what you can do if your ride isn’t feeling as peppy as it used to.
Xiaomi EV Owners Report Drop in Performance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Issue | Reduced performance after HyperOS 1.7.0 update |
| Affected Models | Xiaomi SU7 Ultra (early 2025) |
| Original Horsepower | 1,548 hp |
| Restricted Power Output | ~900 hp (non-track conditions) |
| Update Features | Track-locked performance, 60s launch delay |
| Owner Response | Public backlash, forums lit up, petitions filed |
| Xiaomi Fix | Rollback update issued, original specs restored |
| Official Info | xiaomi.com |
Xiaomi’s attempt to throttle its SU7 Ultra EV’s performance via software stirred up more than just horsepower—it struck a nerve with drivers who felt blindsided. The quick reversal helped mend fences, but the incident will likely echo in future debates around consumer rights in the era of smart vehicles.
Whether you’re a tech-savvy driver or just want your car to do what it promised, this is a lesson in staying informed, voicing concerns, and holding manufacturers accountable.
What Happened in the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra Update?
In early May 2025, Xiaomi rolled out an OTA (Over-the-Air) update for its flagship EV, the SU7 Ultra. While updates usually mean improvements, this one did the opposite for many owners. Under HyperOS 1.7.0, performance took a nosedive:
- Peak horsepower dropped from 1,548 hp to around 900 hp unless used on a certified racetrack.
- A new launch control restriction required a 60-second delay before use.
- The full performance could only be unlocked through a “qualifying lap” mode on Xiaomi-approved tracks.
In plain terms, unless you’re a pro driver with access to a racetrack, your $80,000 electric beast suddenly started feeling like a neutered sports sedan.
Xiaomi’s Official Explanation
The company justified the change as a safety precaution. They argued that:
- Full horsepower should only be used in controlled environments.
- Overheating, drivetrain stress, and tire wear posed serious risks at full output.
- The 60-second delay allowed systems to calibrate and protect key components.
While technically sound, this rubbed many customers the wrong way. Why advertise 1,548 hp if it’s locked behind a racetrack paywall?
The Blowback: Forums, Protests, and Hashtags
As you’d expect, the EV community was not happy.
- Reddit threads exploded with complaints and performance graphs.
- YouTube creators shared “before and after” drag race comparisons.
- The hashtag #FreeMyHorsepower trended on Chinese and Western social media.
Many accused Xiaomi of false advertising. Others called it an example of overreach in software-defined vehicles, where automakers change core functions after you’ve bought the car.
“This isn’t what I paid for,” one owner wrote. “It’s like buying a gaming PC and being told I can only use it on Tuesdays.”
Xiaomi Backtracks—Fast
By mid-May, Xiaomi acknowledged the backlash and announced a rollback. In a public statement, they said:
“We appreciate the passion of our SU7 Ultra community. While our intentions were rooted in safety, we understand the importance of consumer expectations. A new update will restore full access to the vehicle’s advertised performance.”
The rollback OTA was pushed within a week. Early reports confirm:
- Full 1,548 hp restored
- Launch delay removed
- Track-only limits removed for regular driving
Why This Matters Beyond Xiaomi
The incident highlights growing tension between automakers and owners in a world where cars are becoming software-first products. A few key takeaways:
- Software-defined vehicles can be changed post-sale—for better or worse.
- Owners are starting to demand “Right to Drive” protections, similar to Right to Repair laws.
- Transparency in updates is more crucial than ever.
Manufacturers like Tesla, Ford, and Rivian have also faced scrutiny over feature throttling, delayed software rollouts, or paywalled upgrades.
What Can You Do if You Own a Xiaomi SU7 Ultra?
- Check Your Software Version: Open your Xiaomi vehicle control panel and navigate to Settings > System > Version. If you see HyperOS 1.7.0, you likely experienced the performance downgrade.
- Install the Rollback Update: The fix should be available automatically. Go to Settings > Updates > Check for Update and install HyperOS 1.7.1 or later.
- Test Drive Safely: After updating, test acceleration and launch responsiveness in a safe location. If issues persist, contact your local Xiaomi EV service center.
The Numbers: Before vs. After
| Metric | Pre-Update | Post-Update (1.7.0) | Rollback (1.7.1) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak Horsepower | 1,548 hp | ~900 hp | 1,548 hp |
| 0-60 mph | 1.98 sec | ~3.5 sec | 1.98 sec |
| Top Speed | 217 mph | 155 mph | 217 mph |
| Launch Control Delay | 0 sec | 60 sec | 0 sec |
FAQs On Xiaomi EV Owners Report Drop in Performance
Q: Did Xiaomi break the law?
A: There are no current lawsuits, but regulators in China and the EU are monitoring.
Q: Can I get a refund for lost performance?
A: Xiaomi has not announced compensation. Most users got performance back with the rollback.
Q: Will this happen again?
A: Xiaomi claims they’ll be more transparent, but it’s not a legal guarantee.
Q: Are other Xiaomi EV models affected?
A: No. This update was specific to the SU7 Ultra.
Q: What if I already installed aftermarket mods?
A: Xiaomi warns that mods could interfere with OTA updates. Use caution and consult your service provider.
