Hyundai spied testing Xiaomi SU7 mules

The South Korean automaker is apparently interested in studying the Chinese-made Xiaomi SU7 EV, CarNewsChina reports quoting local insiders. These two images of an SU7 wearing a Korean number plate were reportedly made near Hyundai’s research HQ in Hwaseong-si.

Xiaomi has no official representation in South Korea and doesn’t offer its electric cars there. However, multiple sources are claiming that Hyundai found a way to purchase a couple of SU7 sedans, import them into the country and make them temporarily street-legal for testing purposes. We are told that temporary vehicle registrations were issued by the relevant government bodies.

Neither of the brands has issued a comment yet, but it’s easy to see why Hyundai would be interested in studying its competitors. Back in early 2025, Hyundai Motor Group emphasized that it saw many serious competitors in the global EV market. Speaking at a conference, a Hyundai executive said that Tesla was an obvious rival, but rapidly growing Chinese businesses, like BYD, were no less of a threat.

It remains to be seen whether Hyundai’s next electric car ends up “inspired” by the SU7 and to what extent.