Ford CEO Ditches American Steel for Xiaomi Electric Car: A Breaking News Alert for the Automotive Industry
Detroit, MI – December 13, 2025 – In a stunning turn of events that’s sending ripples through the automotive world, Ford CEO Jim Farley has publicly declared his admiration – and daily use – of a Xiaomi SU7, an electric vehicle manufactured by the Chinese tech giant. This isn’t just a casual test drive; Farley has been driving the car for six months and, according to a recent podcast appearance, “doesn’t want to give it up.” This revelation, a genuine breaking news moment, underscores the rapidly shifting landscape of the global automotive industry and the growing prowess of Chinese EV manufacturers. This story is optimized for Google News and SEO visibility.
The Xiaomi SU7, quickly becoming a benchmark in the electric vehicle market.
From Shanghai Test to Chicago Obsession: How Farley Discovered the Xiaomi SU7
What began as a corporate reconnaissance mission – a fact-finding trip to assess the success of Xiaomi’s foray into the car market – has morphed into a personal fascination for Farley. Initially, the Ford team traveled to Shanghai to understand the competition. However, Farley’s last trip to China proved pivotal. He discovered the SU7 and, upon returning to the US, brought one back with him. “I don’t like to talk so much about the competition, but I drive a Xiaomi,” Farley revealed on the Everything Electric TECH podcast. He’s not just driving it; he’s actively studying it, believing a hands-on understanding is crucial to “beat the competition.”
Xiaomi’s Rapid Ascent: 500,000 Cars Delivered in Record Time
Xiaomi, traditionally known for its smartphones, entered the automotive market in April 2024 with the SU7, a fully electric sedan. The car quickly gained traction, and the company recently announced it has delivered over 500,000 units – a remarkable feat for a newcomer. They’ve followed up with the Xiaomi YU7, a high-performance luxury SUV, further solidifying their position. Farley himself acknowledged Xiaomi as an “industry giant.” This rapid growth highlights a key trend: technology companies are increasingly disrupting the automotive sector, a phenomenon particularly pronounced in China.
The Chinese Automotive Revolution: A Wake-Up Call for the West
Farley’s experience underscores a critical difference between the automotive industries in China and the West. “In the West our companies do not have car brands, but in China Xiaomi and Huawei, the two largest phone companies are inside each vehicle,” he observed. This integration of technology and automotive manufacturing is giving Chinese companies a significant edge. The SU7, starting at around $30,000, offers impressive specifications – some variants accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in under three seconds – while maintaining competitive pricing. Its fast charging capabilities and advanced interior technology are directly challenging established premium brands.
Beyond the Specs: Why Jim Farley’s Choice Matters
Farley’s public endorsement isn’t simply about admiring a competitor’s product. It’s a strategic move, a demonstration of his commitment to understanding the evolving market. As he stated on X (formerly Twitter), “Specs can tell part of a story, but you’ve got to get behind the wheel to truly understand and beat the competition.” This proactive approach signals a potential shift in Ford’s strategy, a willingness to learn from – and compete with – the innovative forces emerging from China. The Xiaomi SU7 isn’t just a car; it’s a symbol of a changing world, and Jim Farley is paying very close attention.
Ford CEO Jim Farley reportedly enjoys driving the Xiaomi SU7.
The implications of this are far-reaching. For consumers, it means more competition and potentially lower prices for electric vehicles. For the automotive industry, it’s a clear signal that the status quo is being challenged. And for Ford, it’s a call to action – a reminder that innovation and a deep understanding of the global market are essential for survival. Keep checking back with archyde.com for the latest updates on this developing story and in-depth analysis of the automotive industry’s transformation.
