US woman test drives a Chinese EV and now never wants to buy an American car again

Published on Feb 22, 2026 at 8:36 PM (UTC+4)
by Grace Donohoe

Last updated on Feb 19, 2026 at 10:00 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by Emma Matthews

This woman test drove a Chinese EV, and after experiencing the next level of in-car technology, a mere US-made car seems mediocre.

From the powerful drivetrain to in-cabin entertainment, the EV impressed at every stage.

The range and battery usage were equally attractive – a 50-mile round trip on a cold NYC winter’s day resulted in a loss of only 30 percent.

With mobile integration and self-driving features, the car could really be mistaken for a cutting-edge spaceship.

However, there are major setbacks when it comes to importing these cars into the US, and things aren’t quite straightforward.

VISIT SBX CARS – View live supercar auctions powered by Supercar Blondie

The world of the Chinese EV

China is at the forefront of new car technology, specifically EVs.

From advanced battery to range expansion and new designs, the Chinese EV market is setting the standards for the rest of the world.

But one woman told the Wall Street Journal how, after driving one Chinese EV, she simply can’t go back to an American car.

The car that wowed her so much was from a tech company, and the features were so advanced that, as far as she’s concerned, US cars need to catch up.

The Xiaomi SU7 Max impressed like never before

Of course, the Chinese EV we’re talking about is the Xiaomi SU7 Max, which was driven from New Jersey into NYC.

Not only did the smooth acceleration and driving experience make a mark on the driver, but the overall cabin experience leveled things up like never before.

The infotainment system runs on HyperOS, and even though it was full to the brim with Mandarin-based apps, the 16.1-inch infotainment screen was still impressive.

The reported 500 miles of range impressed so much that a US car looks mediocre compared to this marvel.

The Xiaomi’s additional perks include the navigation directions coming through headrest speakers and a control bar that snaps on as a way to avoid using the touchscreen, showing that the company really has thought of everything.

Plus, for drivers who own other Xiaomi products, mirroring is also available on the huge screen in the car, as well as other clever features like a mini fridge, which also comes in clutch.

Of course, thanks to various factors, including restrictions and tarrifs mean that right now, the Chinese EV is not available in the US.

But, with the ability to get from 0-100km/h in 2.78 seconds and the professed ‘performance of a Corvette Z06 at the price of the simplest 2024 Audi A4’, there’s a clear calling for the EV in the US.

DISCOVER SBX CARS: The global premium car auction platform powered by Supercar Blondie

Beginning her career as a lifestyle reporter and social-media manager, Grace joined Supercar Blondie in February 2025. Since coming on board, she has thrown herself into the busy daily writing schedule. Her editorial sweet spots include writing about luxury properties and the quirky features inside them that the one percent are investing in, as well as groundbreaking advancements in space exploration.