by Key Recall Highlights
Scale and Reason for the Recall
Over 115,000 units of the highly popular Xiaomi SU7 electric car are being recalled in China due to problems with the driver assistance systems. This step follows a high-profile accident about six months ago, in which three college students died when their SU7, traveling at 97 km/h, crashed into a concrete divider while the Navigate on Autopilot system was active.
The State Administration for Market Regulation of China reported that the driver assistance system used in the SU7 has “insufficient recognition capability and may inadequately detect and warn drivers in certain scenarios,” as required for Level 2 or Level 2+ systems. It was also clarified that if the highway autopilot function is activated, it may not provide adequate warnings about performance in extreme situations.
Recall Details
A total of 116,887 SU7 units are being recalled, all of which were manufactured between February 2024 and August 2025. This represents approximately 38 percent of the 305,055 SU7s sold across China as of July since the car’s launch in early 2024.
Xiaomi confirmed that the malfunction will be corrected via an over-the-air software update, avoiding the need for physical servicing.
This recall coincides with the introduction of new safety standards in China for vehicles equipped with Level 2 driver assistance systems. These regulations, which set stricter performance requirements, will come into effect in 2027.
Fatal Accident in March
The most serious incident involving the SU7 occurred in March on the Dezhou-Shangrao Expressway. Chinese media reported that at the time, the car was likely traveling at a speed of 116 km/h with the Navigate on Autopilot function activated.
It was reported that the system marked an “obstacle ahead” and initiated braking when approaching a construction zone. The driver intervened by steering left and applying moderate braking, then gradually steering right. Within moments, the car collided with a concrete divider and caught fire. All three passengers died.
“The recall due to a faulty driver assistance system may deter some Chinese consumers from purchasing Xiaomi cars. But the recall also shows Xiaomi’s commitment and confidence in addressing issues.”
Similar incidents and the manufacturer’s response indicate the rapid development and simultaneous challenges faced by electric vehicle manufacturers in the field of autonomous driving. The rapid implementation of software fixes demonstrates the technological advantages of modern vehicles but also underscores the importance of unwavering adherence to safety standards in a fast-growing market.
