The electric vehicle revolution has largely been dominated by SUVs and sedans, but sports cars are finally catching up. Among the most intriguing new entrants is the Xiaomi‑backed SC‑01, a compact electric sports coupe that promises thrilling performance at an accessible price point. Built in Italy and aimed at the European market, the SC‑01 blends Chinese innovation with European craftsmanship, positioning itself as a serious contender in the enthusiast EV space.
Origins and Development
The SC‑01 was conceived by Tianjin Gongjiangpai Auto Technology, a startup founded by Feng Xiaotong, and is backed by Xiaomi alongside Jiangling’s JMEV brand. First revealed in China in 2022, the car quickly attracted attention for its bold design and ambitious performance claims. By 2026, production plans were finalized, with around 1,000 units scheduled to be built in Italy for the European market .
This strategic decision to manufacture in Italy is more than symbolic. It ensures easier homologation for European regulations, strengthens logistics, and enhances perceived quality among buyers who associate Italy with automotive excellence.
Design Philosophy: A Modern Wedge
Visually, the SC‑01 pays homage to classics like the Lancia Stratos, adopting a wedge‑shaped silhouette that screams performance. Compact dimensions, sharp lines, and a low stance give it a purposeful look, while modern EV touches—such as sleek LED lighting and aerodynamic detailing—make it feel contemporary.
Unlike many EVs that prioritize screens and digital gimmicks, the SC‑01 emphasizes lightness and driving purity. Weighing just 1,365 kg, thanks to an aluminum chassis and minimalist interior, the car is designed to deliver a raw, connected driving experience .
Performance: Numbers That Impress
Under the skin, the SC‑01 packs a dual‑motor, all‑wheel‑drive setup producing 429 hp (320 kW). This allows the car to sprint from 0–100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds, putting it in the same league as far more expensive electric supercars .
The pushrod suspension system, typically reserved for high‑end performance cars, ensures precise handling and stability. Combined with its lightweight construction, the SC‑01 promises agility and responsiveness that should appeal to driving enthusiasts.
Interior and Features
Inside, the SC‑01 takes a minimalist approach. Expect a driver‑focused cockpit with essential controls, supportive sports seats, and limited distractions. While Xiaomi’s DNA suggests some level of connectivity and smart integration, the emphasis remains on driving engagement rather than gadgetry.
This philosophy sets the SC‑01 apart from mainstream EVs, which often overload interiors with touchscreens and digital assistants. Instead, the SC‑01 is about stripping back to the essentials—speed, control, and emotion.
Market Positioning
The SC‑01 enters a niche but growing segment of affordable electric sports cars. Rivals include the MG Cyberster and upcoming compact EV coupes from European brands. However, the SC‑01’s combination of lightweight engineering, Italian production, and Xiaomi’s backing gives it a unique edge.
By limiting production to 1,000 units, the brand creates exclusivity while testing market appetite. If successful, the SC‑01 could pave the way for broader expansion, potentially inspiring other manufacturers to explore lightweight EV sports cars.
Why It Matters
The SC‑01 is significant for several reasons:
- Affordable performance EV: It shows that high‑performance electric cars don’t have to cost supercar money.
- Cross‑cultural collaboration: Chinese innovation meets Italian craftsmanship, creating a product with global appeal.
- Driver‑focused philosophy: In an era of screen‑heavy EVs, the SC‑01 prioritizes driving purity.
For Xiaomi, the SC‑01 also represents diversification beyond consumer electronics, reinforcing its ambition to become a player in the mobility sector.
Challenges Ahead
Despite its promise, the SC‑01 faces challenges. Limited production means availability will be scarce, and building brand recognition in Europe won’t be easy. Enthusiasts may be skeptical of a newcomer, especially one backed by a tech company rather than a traditional automaker.
Additionally, the EV sports car market is still in its infancy. Convincing buyers to choose a relatively unknown brand over established names will require strong marketing and proven reliability.
Conclusion
The Xiaomi SC‑01 is more than just another EV—it’s a bold statement that electric sports cars can be lightweight, affordable, and thrilling. With its wedge‑inspired design, 429 hp dual‑motor setup, and Italian production, it blends heritage with innovation in a way few competitors can match.
If the SC‑01 delivers on its promises, it could become a cult classic, remembered as the car that brought accessible electric performance to Europe. For now, it stands as one of the most exciting EV launches of 2026, proving that the future of sports cars is not only electric but also exhilarating.
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