Xiaomi's new Pengcheng SUV officially began deliveries on September 12, covering 75 cities across China, according to IThome (IThome). The company's founder and CEO, Lei Jun, appeared at the first delivery event in Xuzhou, Jiangsu province, where he personally opened car doors and handed keys to the first batch of owners, as captured in videos shared by bystanders and social media users.
Why Xuzhou?
The choice of Xuzhou is a playful nod to the model's name. Xuzhou was historically known as Pengcheng, which sounds similar to Pengcheng in Chinese. Local media outlet Wuxian Xuzhou, affiliated with Xuzhou Radio and Television, posted images celebrating the nationwide delivery starting from Pengcheng, welcoming both the car and Lei Jun to the city.
Neither Xiaomi nor Lei Jun's official accounts live-streamed the event, but multiple videos from attendees and passersby captured the moment. The delivery launch follows the recent market debut of the Pengcheng N90 Max, a large seven-seat flagship SUV priced at 269,900 yuan (about $38,000) as a Chinese guide price before taxes and incentives.
Delivery timeline and market context
Lei Jun announced that nationwide deliveries would begin the following day, covering 75 cities. He also revealed that Xiaomi has pre-owned Pengcheng vehicles available, with delivery times ranging from one to five weeks. This launch marks Xiaomi's expansion into the SUV segment, following its entry into the electric vehicle market with the SU7 sedan.
The Pengcheng SUV is part of Xiaomi's broader strategy to establish itself as a major player in China's competitive EV market, where it competes with established brands like BYD, Nio, and Xpeng. The company's automotive division has been ramping up production capacity to meet demand for its vehicles.
According to IThome, the delivery event underscores Xiaomi's commitment to customer experience, with Lei Jun personally engaging with early adopters. The choice of Xuzhou, with its historical connection to the name Pengcheng, adds a cultural touch to the launch, resonating with local pride and the brand's marketing efforts.
Based on reporting by IT之家. Edited and published in English by geisou.
