This 2,533 HP Xiaomi Ultra vs. Tesla Plaid drag race features an unexpected twist | Carscoops

      China's Xiaomi SU7 Ultra faces off against the Tesla Model S Plaid in Carwow's most recent showdown.

      In this competition, the newer Xiaomi boasts an impressive 1,527 hp and 1,306 lb-ft, compared to the Tesla's 1,006 hp and 1,047 lb-ft.

      As expected, the SU7 claims victory, but the Plaid puts up a significant challenge.

      Xiaomi has already demonstrated the capabilities of its SU7 at the Nurburgring, surpassing the fastest lap times of competitors like the Porsche Taycan and Tesla Model S. But what happens when cornering is removed from the scenario? This is explored in a new Carwow video that features the top-spec SU7, the Ultra, against the Model S Plaid.

      Additionally, it's worth noting that Xiaomi's CEO has acknowledged purchasing Teslas and dismantling them to uncover their secrets.

      It's not an exaggeration to say the Model S is at a disadvantage in this comparison. We're now in a time where the Plaid's previously impressive power figures seem somewhat average.

      The Tesla's stats of 1,006 hp (1,020 PS) and 1,047 lb-ft (1,420 Nm) are overshadowed by the SU7 Ultra’s 1,527 hp (1,548 PS) and 1,306 lb-ft (1,770 Nm). Despite the Tesla having a 375 lbs (170 kg) weight advantage, the numbers suggest it’s struggling.

      **Launch Control Performance**

      When the race begins, the Plaid consistently outpaces the SU7 initially. Carwow's host, Matt Watson, has considerable experience with car launches, expertly managing both the start and wheelspin; the more powerful SU7 naturally experiences more wheelspin. It is surprising how long it takes the Xiaomi to start closing the gap on the Tesla.

      However, once the SU7 gains momentum, it makes the Plaid seem like it’s unable to outpace a Dacia Spring. The footage from inside the Tesla, showing the SU7 racing ahead, is astonishing. Yet, the quarter-mile results are relatively close.

      This proximity in times is due to the SU7 taking a longer time to reach its peak performance—9.3 seconds for the SU7, compared to 9.5 seconds for the Model S. Therefore, based on this evidence, the Chinese car may not perform well in an average stoplight race.

      Owners of the Plaid in the U.S. won’t need to find out firsthand as Xiaomi does not yet sell cars in America (though European sales are planned). This is fortunate for Tesla, considering the Ultra's price in China is about $74,300, whereas the Plaid costs nearly $100,000 in the U.S.