Xiaomi is taking concrete steps toward its global right-hand-drive (RHD) electric vehicle expansion, with new automotive roles opening in Sydney. The company has set a timeline for entering RHD markets in the first half of 2028, following its initial overseas launch in Europe in late 2027.
Xiaomi Targets Australia for RHD Market Entry
Xiaomi has started recruiting automotive personnel in Sydney, Australia, as part of its preparations for a right-hand-drive expansion. The company is seeking a Senior Legal Counsel (Automotive), Australia, and a Product Manager, International Instalment Finance. These roles will focus on legal affairs related to vehicle sales, after-sales operations, contracts, regulatory engagement, and finance product development across the Asia-Pacific region.
Australian automotive outlets have reported expectations of a local showroom arrival in 2028, though Xiaomi has not yet disclosed details about its model range, pricing, or retail arrangements for Australia.
Global Expansion Timeline and European Launch
At its April 2026 Investor Day, Xiaomi president Lu Weibing outlined the company’s international expansion schedule. The first overseas vehicle launch is planned for Europe in the second half of 2027, with RHD markets such as Australia, the UK, Japan, and New Zealand to follow in the first half of 2028.
In September, Xiaomi signed memorandums of understanding with eight German dealer groups, including Emil Frey Germany, Ernst Dello, Autohaus Dinnebier, Hahn Automobile, and LUEG Mobility, to develop local sales and after-sales operations. These agreements are MoUs and not finalized dealership contracts.
Potential Models and Market Considerations
Xiaomi’s current Chinese lineup includes the SU7 sedan, which marked the company’s entry into the electric-car market, and the production YU7 SUV, offering a crossover option. While neither model has been confirmed for the RHD rollout, both could be considered for overseas markets.
The YU7 SUV saw strong initial demand in China, with over 240,000 locked-in orders within its first 18 hours on sale. Monthly sales peaked at 39,089 units in December 2025, before dropping to 11,820 units in September 2026. Sales figures fluctuated during this period, according to China EV DataTracker.
Regulatory and Engineering Challenges
Australia, the UK, Japan, and New Zealand all participate in the UN 1958 Agreement, which provides a framework for harmonized vehicle technical regulations and reciprocal recognition of approvals. However, market-specific compliance is still required.
Developing RHD vehicles involves more than relocating the steering wheel. Manufacturers must adapt steering and pedal assemblies, dashboard packaging, wiring, HVAC components, and validate airbag positioning and driver-assistance systems for local markets.
Manufacturing Capacity and Expansion
Xiaomi’s Beijing facility recently completed its second construction phase, bringing the complex’s combined annual nameplate capacity to 300,000 vehicles. This figure represents manufacturing capacity, not confirmed annual production or export availability. The expansion was undertaken amid long customer waiting times for Xiaomi vehicles in China.
Why this matters
Xiaomi’s recruitment in Australia and its outlined global expansion timeline signal a significant move into right-hand-drive EV markets. The company’s approach, including legal and financial infrastructure, highlights the complexity of international automotive launches.
With Chinese automakers already holding substantial market share in several RHD markets, Xiaomi’s entry could further shape the competitive landscape and influence consumer choices in regions like Australia, the UK, and Japan.
What this means for buyers
Buyers in Australia and other RHD markets can expect Xiaomi to enter the local EV scene from 2028, pending regulatory approvals and finalization of retail arrangements. Details on specific models, pricing, and dealership networks remain to be announced.
Key Specs
- Planned RHD Market Entry: First half of 2028
- First Overseas Launch: Europe, second half of 2027
- Australian Hiring Roles: Senior Legal Counsel (Automotive), Product Manager (International Instalment Finance)
- Current Chinese Models: SU7 sedan, YU7 SUV
- YU7 Initial Orders: Over 240,000 in first 18 hours
- YU7 December 2025 Sales: 39,089 units
- YU7 September 2026 Sales: 11,820 units
- Beijing Facility Capacity: 300,000 vehicles annually
Images sourced from: cnevpost.com
