Xiaomi opens its first EV R&D and Design centre in Munich outside China

Xiaomi has opened in Munich, Germany, its first electric-vehicle Research and Development (R&D) and Design centre outside China. The move places the brand at the heart of Europe’s automotive industry and strengthens its plan to win a share of the European electric-vehicle market from 2027.

According to the company, choosing Munich was no accident, as it is “one of Europe’s leading hubs for automotive engineering and design”. In Xiaomi’s view, this creates the right conditions to speed up the development of new products.

“Expanding our R&D network strengthens the company’s ability to deliver vehicles that truly inspire and are recognised for their performance, while also ensuring our electric vehicles meet global safety and quality standards,” the brand said in a statement.

Innovation with a European stamp

Xiaomi’s Munich R&D and Design centre

At the new site, engineers, designers and researchers will work side by side to develop high-performance vehicles, advanced technologies for electric vehicles and next-generation design solutions. The facility will also make it easier to deepen collaboration with research institutes and strategic partners.

Talent, autonomy and immersive digital experiences

Xiaomi wants Munich to be more than a laboratory: it is intended as a meeting point to attract international talent and drive projects linked to autonomous driving, new electric platforms and immersive digital experiences.

Preparing for entry into Europe

The Munich investment comes as Xiaomi continues to consolidate its position in the Chinese market, with models such as the SU7, SU7 Ultra and YU7. Now, the emphasis shifts to preparing its European push. Official entry is expected in 2027, but the new automotive division in Germany already signals the manufacturer’s ambition.