Xiaomi announces new SkyNomad brand – first model to be a REEV SUV due later this year, any chance of global expansion?

Xiaomi Auto has officially announced a new sub-brand called SkyNomad, with the Chinese name Xuntian. According to Xiaomi, the brand is described as “a new name about space and lifestyle,” suggesting a product line positioned around larger, more practical vehicles rather than the sportier image of the SU7 sedan.

The first model under the SkyNomad brand is expected to be a range-extender SUV, with a possible market debut in the second half of 2026. The vehicle has also been linked to the name Xiaomi Pengcheng N90, based on information shown on Yiche’s model page and related reports.

Trademark filings also suggest Xiaomi has been preparing this brand for some time. Information from China’s trademark database shows that Xiaomi Technology has applied for multiple trademarks related to “Xuntian” and “SkyNomad” since August 2025, covering several categories including office supplies, machinery and leather goods.

Xiaomi has also reportedly registered a new official account under the name Xiaomi Pengcheng, with branding that shows both SkyNomad and Xiaomi Pengcheng. This has led to speculation that “Pengcheng” could be the Chinese branding used for the new vehicle line, although Xiaomi has yet to fully clarify the naming structure.

Based on earlier information, the first SkyNomad model is expected to be a large or full-size SUV with a more upright and boxy design compared to Xiaomi’s current passenger cars. Spy information points to a front end using a new design language, with sharper headlamps that differ from the SU7 and YU7. A roof-mounted lidar unit has also been spotted, indicating that advanced driver-assistance features will likely be a major part of the package.

Some Xiaomi design cues are still expected to remain. The SUV is said to use the brand’s distinctive water-drop-style side mirrors, while the rear is expected to feature vertical tail lamps and a split tailgate design.

The most important difference, however, is likely to be the powertrain. Unlike the SU7 and YU7, the first SkyNomad SUV is expected to use a range-extender setup rather than being a pure EV. Yiche reports that the model could use a large battery of over 70 kWh, giving it a claimed pure-electric driving range of around 400 to 500 km before the range extender is needed.

That would put SkyNomad into a very different segment from Xiaomi’s current EVs. Instead of focusing only on performance and charging infrastructure, a range-extender SUV would allow Xiaomi to target family buyers who want electric driving for daily use but still need long-distance flexibility.

For now, Xiaomi has only confirmed the new SkyNomad brand name, while detailed specifications, pricing and launch timing remain unannounced. More information is expected closer to the model’s official reveal, which could happen later this year.