The automotive landscape is shifting once again, and Xiaomi is expanding its horizons far beyond the asphalt. Recent spy photos shared by prominent bloggers, including @SugarDesign and @NewMobility, have pulled the curtain back on Xiaomi’s highly anticipated third automotive project. Moving beyond the pure electric focus of the SU7 series, Xiaomi is preparing to disrupt the extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) and outdoor lifestyle market under a newly registered independent sub-brand: SKYNOMAD (known in China as “Xuntian,” which directly translates to “Sky Nomad”).
The Shift to Range-Extended Exploration
While the SU7 established Xiaomi as a serious contender in the performance EV space, the SKYNOMAD brand is positioned specifically to house the company’s new range-extended SUV product line. Targeting families, long-distance travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts, these vehicles represent a strategic pivot toward versatile, heavy-duty mobility.
The most striking revelation from the recent spy shots of the “Kunlun N3 (YU9)” model is the inclusion of a retractable, pop-top roof. This design essentially transforms the SUV into a mobile motorhome, perfect for camping and off-grid living. In terms of design language, the YU9 retains the signature Xiaomi family aesthetics, including the distinctive waterdrop rearview mirrors. However, it introduces a more rugged stance with a vertical taillight design and a highly practical “top-and-bottom” split tailgate.
Physically, the YU9 is a behemoth, measuring over 5.2 meters in length and standing approximately 1.8 meters tall. To support this massive footprint and ensure a premium smart cabin experience, the entire SKYNOMAD lineup is expected to be powered by Xiaomi HyperOS, ensuring seamless Xiaomi HyperConnect integration with your existing mobile and smart home devices on the go. Interestingly, leaks suggest these vehicles will drop the traditional Xiaomi logo on the rear and steering wheel, opting instead for an exclusive SKYNOMAD badge.
Upcoming Vehicle Lineup & Architecture
Based on the current intelligence, the SKYNOMAD and extended-range portfolio will feature multiple tiers tailored to different market segments:
-
Kunlun 10: A compact, entry-level five-seater family SUV.
-
Kunlun 20: A large, mid-tier five-seater SUV.
-
Kunlun 30: A flagship large seven-seater SUV.
-
Xiaomi YU9 / Pop-Top Variant: The premium seven-seater featuring the retractable roof.
-
“Island of Man”: A high-end, dedicated outdoor pop-top motorhome positioned at the absolute top of the SKYNOMAD hierarchy.
(Note: The YU7 and YU7 GT models have also been spotted in full camouflage, hinting at a very aggressive rollout strategy).
Market Impact and Pricing
Xiaomi is aiming directly at the premium EREV market, squarely targeting competitors like the Li Auto L7, L8, and L9. Rumors suggest the SKYNOMAD series will be priced between 200,000 and 450,000 CNY.
Converted to USD, this places the vehicles in a highly competitive price bracket of approximately $27,500 to $62,000 USD. The entry-level Kunlun 10 is expected to launch at an aggressive price point below the $27,500 mark.
Please note: As with all initial automotive releases from the company, the SKYNOMAD and YU9 series are expected to be launched exclusively in the Chinese market at this time, with no immediate plans announced for global availability.
