Xiaomi recruits Tesla's top talent to accelerate electric vehicle ambitions

Xiaomi is expanding its electric vehicle team by hiring key figures from Tesla. The company has brought in former Tesla China general manager Kong Yanshuang to lead its automotive sales. This move follows a pattern of recruiting experienced talent from the rival firm.

The new-generation SU7 has already achieved over 7,000 deliveries since its launch. Meanwhile, Xiaomi has set an ambitious target of 550,000 annual deliveries by 2026. Kong Yanshuang, who previously managed Tesla's regional sales and brand strategy, will now oversee Xiaomi's automotive sales division. He replaces Li Ruoi and will focus on adjusting the company's sales channels. His experience in building Tesla's retail system aligns with Xiaomi's own approach, which has mirrored Tesla's model since the start.

Another Tesla veteran, known as 'Eason,' has also joined Xiaomi in an advisory role. Additionally, Song Gang, former vice president of production at Tesla's Shanghai plant, will take charge of Xiaomi's manufacturing operations. These hires come as Xiaomi faces challenges with high turnover among its well-paid sales recruits in recent years.

Despite these changes, Xiaomi's electric vehicle deliveries have shown strong growth. March figures exceeded 20,000 units, though they remained under 30,000. The company continues to push toward its long-term goal of 550,000 annual deliveries by 2026. Xiaomi's recruitment of Tesla executives signals a strategic push to strengthen its electric vehicle division. With Kong Yanshuang leading sales and Song Gang managing production, the company aims to refine its operations. The recent delivery numbers suggest steady progress toward its 2026 target.