Whispers in the automotive world suggest a secret collaboration between tech giant Xiaomi and HWA, the company founded by AMG’s original creator, Hans Werner Aufrecht. According to Italian publication Quattroruote, citing anonymous sources close to the matter, the two entities are potentially working together on an ultra-high-performance vehicle.
HWA, a name deeply rooted in motorsport and stemming from the legendary AMG, has a storied history, particularly with Mercedes-Benz’s racing endeavors, including the demanding German Touring Car Masters (DTM) series. The rumored partnership aims to create a car that is not just fast, but a groundbreaking machine destined for automotive history books.
While the exact form this collaboration will take remains under wraps, speculation points to two main possibilities. It could manifest as an entirely new flagship model for Xiaomi, pushing the boundaries of what the company offers. Alternatively, it might be an extreme performance iteration of Xiaomi’s existing SU7 or YU7 models, specifically the SU7, which has been spotted undergoing rigorous testing.
Performance Upgrades Under Scrutiny
In recent weeks, several camouflaged SU7 Ultra test vehicles, sporting a more aggressive design, have been seen lapping the iconic Nürburgring racetrack. This has fueled analysis that Xiaomi might be developing an enhanced SU7 Ultra variant with a significant focus on track performance.
Sources close to the project have indicated that Xiaomi’s focus for these upgrades is on addressing the current SU7 Ultra’s weaker points. The chassis is reportedly being retuned for better handling on tracks like the Nürburgring, with a more aggressive wheel alignment setup, particularly in terms of camber. The braking system is also receiving a substantial upgrade, featuring larger components and improved cooling designs to withstand the rigors of high-speed driving.
Furthermore, the powertrain is expected to see an increase in output and enhanced thermal management. Aerodynamics are also being optimized to generate more downforce and improve the expulsion of hot air, crucial for sustained performance.
HWA’s Potential Role and Future Directions
It remains unclear whether HWA is involved in the development of this SU7 Ultra upgrade or if their collaboration is geared towards a completely new model. If a new vehicle is indeed planned, Quattroruote suggests two potential avenues:
- A Top-Tier Hypercar: This direction could involve a cutting-edge hypercar featuring advanced technology and modern design, achieving unprecedented performance levels. Its styling and proportions might draw inspiration from mid-engined sports cars.
- HWA 190 Evo Influence: The collaboration could also build upon HWA’s recent 190 Evo project. This project saw a modern interpretation of the classic Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II, featuring a distinctively boxy shape and extensive use of carbon fiber. A new model inspired by this could see significant evolution of its core characteristics.
The potential partnership between Xiaomi and HWA, leveraging the expertise of AMG’s founder, signals a bold move by the tech giant into the highly competitive and performance-driven automotive sector. Whether it results in an extreme version of an existing model or an entirely new breed of supercar, the automotive world will be watching closely.
