Xiaomi Auto Explores Amphibious Vehicle Technology with New Underwater Propulsion Patent

[R&D Update] Xiaomi Auto has newly obtained a utility model patent titled 'Underwater Propulsion Device and Vehicle,' with classification code B60F 3/00 explicitly indicating amphibious vehicles.

Core Strategic Shift: From Water-Fording Capability to Underwater Propulsion

Xiaomi Auto's technical focus is shifting from validating the SU7’s 350mm wading depth to developing active underwater propulsion capabilities. The patent was filed on June 3, 2025, and granted by the China National Intellectual Property Administration on July 10, 2026 (Publication No. CN 224477061 U), with inventors Wang Bingyi and Li Baolu.

Technical Foundation: Flow-Guiding Structure Suppresses Cavitation for Enhanced Efficiency

The core innovation lies in optimizing water flow paths: an annular flow channel, formed between an outer casing and a flow-guiding component, allows water to smoothly enter the propeller blade area through a gradually narrowing flow wall. This design minimizes abrupt contractions and expansions, thereby reducing cavitation, noise, and energy consumption, while enhancing thrust and system longevity.