Xiaomi SU7 Ultra Spied Testing at Ferrari Headquarters in Maranello

Photo credit: Weibo | Sago Soup | Piniluoshan
Earlier this month, a yellow Xiaomi SU7 Ultra with silver stripes rolled out of Ferrari’s Maranello headquarters and left everyone wondering. As the fastest production EV to lap the Nürburgring, this Chinese sedan is serious about Ferrari’s first electric car, the Elettrica, due to debut in spring 2026 and blending innovation with its heritage.

Ferrari going electric is a big step for a brand built on V12s. The Elettrica is rumored to be a limited production car and will introduce buyers to an all-electric Ferrari, paving the way for a crossover EV in 2028, which was delayed due to a softening luxury EV market. The SU7 Ultra being at Maranello means Ferrari is studying its tech to make sure the Elettrica delivers.

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The SU7 Ultra shocked with a 7:04.957 Nürburgring lap, faster than the Porsche Taycan, and a prototype did 6:22.091, rivaling top racers. Its triple motor setup, 1,526 horsepower, 1.98 second 0-62mph, 223mph top speed is impressive. Ferrari is known for handling, so they aren’t looking for cornering tips but are studying the SU7 Ultra’s thermal management and high speed endurance, crucial for the Elettrica’s track credentials.

Ferrari benchmarking a Chinese car is the new normal. Five years ago this would have been unthinkable but Xiaomi has earned respect as a tech turned carmaker. Weibo posts show Xiaomi’s CEO driving a Ferrari Purosangue, so there’s mutual interest. “Xiaomi, a tech giant turned carmaker, has caught the world’s attention and even Ferrari is taking notes” sums it up.

The SU7 Ultra’s ability to balance raw power with usability intrigues Ferrari. Sustaining 1,526 horsepower without overheating is a feat and Ferrari is studying its cooling systems to make sure the Elettrica can handle intense track sessions. Not matching Xiaomi’s horsepower the Elettrica will have Ferrari’s visceral, engaging spirit, Weibo rumors say design cues from the Roma or 12Cilindri, electrified for the new era.

The Elettrica’s limited production will be exclusive but its real challenge is to deliver Ferrari’s thrill without a combustion engine. The SU7 Ultra is the blueprint for what’s possible, sedan-coupe style with crazy performance. Ferrari will merge this tech with its heritage to make sure the prancing horse badge still has emotional appeal. “Ferrari’s first EV won’t just be a car; it’ll be a statement” sums it up.

The 2028 crossover delay shows Ferrari is taking it slow, the SU7 Ultra is the benchmark to perfect the Elettrica. This sighting means Ferrari is willing to learn from unexpected sources like Xiaomi, adapting to a world where speed meets sustainability. As spring 2026 approaches the wait for an electric Ferrari that redefines the brand while honoring its heritage is getting exciting.
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