An unusual sighting of a Xiaomi YU7 Max electric vehicle on an Illinois highway has drawn attention, with indications suggesting it is being used for research by American EV manufacturer Rivian. Like many other Chinese models, the Xiaomi YU7 Max, despite its popularity in China, is not permitted for import and sale in the United States, making its appearance particularly noteworthy.

Photos of the vehicle first appeared on a Chinese social media platform before spreading on Reddit. The car bore an Illinois manufacturer's license plate, a state where Rivian operates a factory. Furthermore, the license plate number 132 has previously been seen on Rivian's test vehicles. While such license plates are not exclusive and can be issued to other manufacturers or contractors, the timing of this sighting is coincidental.

Xiaomi YU7 Max electric vehicle with a manufacturer's license plate driving on a highway in Illinois. Photo: CBong

Rivian is preparing for the launch of its R2 model in June, with a price tag of 45,000 USD. Part of this launch process may involve comparing it with other vehicles to assess the R2's competitive standing. Rivian chief executive officer, RJ Scaringe, previously confirmed that the company owns several Chinese electric vehicles for internal testing and competitive analysis.

While Rivian will not need to worry about Xiaomi taking sales in the United States, the R2 will also be sold in the European market, where the two vehicles are expected to compete in the future. However, these are not equivalent models. The YU7 Max is built on an 800 V platform, a configuration increasingly common in mainstream Chinese electric vehicles, enabling ultra-fast DC charging. The R2 uses a 400 V platform, meaning its charging speed will be slower. Rivian also targets customers who prefer adventure and nature exploration.

Xiaomi has confirmed plans to enter the European electric vehicle market by 2027. The company established the Xiaomi Research and Development (R&D) and Design Center in Munich, Germany, in 9/2025, to focus on developing vehicles that meet European standards and consumer preferences. Models such as the SU7 Ultra have been registered and undergoing test drives on public roads in Germany since mid-2025 for technical refinement.

Currently, consumers in some countries, including Germany, Netherlands, and Italy, can access Xiaomi vehicles through unofficial direct import channels via e-commerce platforms. China EV Marketplace previously stated it is the largest online electric vehicle retailer in China, serving customers worldwide. Xiaomi has emerged as the most popular brand for direct imports in several EU markets, including Germany, Netherlands, Spain, Italy, and 12 other countries. However, this platform has not yet released precise sales figures. The only official statistic available is the delivery of 11,000 electric vehicles globally in 2025, marking a 224% increase compared to 2024 (3,400 imported vehicles).

My Anh (via Carscoops)