Chinese electronics giant Xiaomi is laying the groundwork to sell cars in Australia. Two job advertisements posted on LinkedIn in mid-October are for Sydney-based roles that explicitly mention an Australian automotive business, and the company has told investors it plans to start selling in right-hand-drive markets from the first half of 2028.
Xiaomi has not officially confirmed an Australian launch, models or timing. Treat the 2028 date as expected, not confirmed.
What the job ads say
| Role | Location | What it involves |
|---|---|---|
| Senior Legal Counsel (Automotive), Australia | Sydney | Described as "responsible for our Australian Automotive Business", supporting sales and after-sales. Requires at least eight years as an in-house automotive lawyer |
| Product Manager, International Instalment Finance | Sydney, covering Asia-Pacific | Working with banks and leasing companies on car finance products, including residual value frameworks |
Neither is a showroom role, but together they matter. A legal lead for sales and after-sales suggests Xiaomi is preparing the dealer or agency agreements, warranty terms and consumer law compliance any new brand needs. A finance product role shows it wants its own car loans and leases ready at launch, which most new Chinese brands now offer from day one.
Xiaomi's global rollout
Xiaomi only started selling cars in China in 2024 and has grown fast. It was reported to have delivered more than 410,000 cars in 2025 and to be targeting 550,000 this year, though its car business has also been reported to be losing money per vehicle. Europe comes first, with a launch in Germany expected in the second half of 2027 after Xiaomi signed agreements with eight German dealer groups in September. Right-hand-drive markets such as Australia, the UK and Japan are expected to follow from 2028.
| Model | Type | Likely Australian rivals |
|---|---|---|
| SU7 | Electric sedan | Tesla Model 3, BYD Seal, Porsche Taycan at the top end |
| YU7 | Electric SUV | Tesla Model Y, Zeekr 7X, BYD Sealion 7 |
| Larger range-extender SUVs | Electric with a petrol generator | Large plug-in hybrid and range-extender SUVs |
None of these models has been confirmed for Australia, and specifications for right-hand-drive versions have not been released. Australian pricing would also depend on the exchange rate, local spec and whether Xiaomi sells through dealers or an agency model.
A crowded field of newcomers
Xiaomi would arrive in one of the most competitive EV markets for new brands. Recent entrants and announced arrivals include Changan's Nevo sub-brand in 2027 and Avatr, while established players keep sharpening prices. The Tesla Model Y is listed from $58,900 before on-road costs and the Zeekr 7X from $57,900.
That matters for buyers. More brands usually mean more choice and keener pricing, but a brand with no local track record can mean uncertain resale values and a thin service network at first. Our best electric SUVs under $60,000 and EV rebates and incentives by state guides cover what is available today.
What to watch for
- An Australian company registration or trademark filings for Xiaomi car names.
- Right-hand-drive production news from Xiaomi in China.
- Appointment of a local managing director or distribution partner.
- Any ANCAP or federal vehicle approval listings.
Details are from Xiaomi's Australian job advertisements, posted in mid-October 2026 and checked on 3 November 2026, and from reported Xiaomi investor comments. Xiaomi has not confirmed an Australian launch.