Chinese EV manufacturer Xiaomi apparently plans to introduce a sub-brand called "Sky Nomad," which will offer vehicles equipped with range extenders. The first model is said to be a large SUV developed under the codename Kunlun N3, and it is expected to officially launch in the second half of 2026.Image: XiaomiDetails about the sub-brand Sky Nomad and its Kunlun N3 model remain scarce. According to Chinese media reports, Xiaomi plans to compete with large, family-friendly SUVs featuring range extenders, such as the Aito M8, Li Auto L9, and Leapmotor D19, while targeting similar price points.The Kunlun N3 is reportedly approximately 5.30 metres long, with a wheelbase of around 3.10 metres. The SUV is expected to deliver an all-electric range of 400 to 500 kilometres, while its combined range is estimated at 1,500 kilometres. For clarity: vehicles with range extenders are primarily powered by electric motors. If the battery runs low, a compact internal combustion engine acts as a generator, producing electricity to power the electric motor or recharge the battery while driving. However, the combustion engine never directly drives the wheels.To achieve its high all-electric range, the Kunlun N3 is expected to feature a 70 kWh battery. According to the local media portal 21jingji, Xiaomi has already selected its battery suppliers: Sunwoda will provide 60 per cent of the required batteries, while CALB will supply the remaining 40 per cent.Another intriguing question is whether Sky Nomad’s Kunlun N3 might be identical to Xiaomi’s Project YU9 and could replace it, as suggested by the Chinese portal Gasgoo. Reports as early as December indicated that Xiaomi was planning a family-friendly SUV with a range extender under the names YU9 or Kunlun.Xiaomi, primarily known in Europe as a smartphone manufacturer, launched its first electric vehicle around two years ago: the SU7, which resembles the Porsche Taycan and was recently updated. Last summer, the company introduced a second model, the electric SUV YU7. Xiaomi, which has so far sold its electric vehicles exclusively in China, has achieved remarkable success: in 2025, the company delivered a total of 411,082 vehicles, marking a 200.4 percent increase compared to its debut year in 2024.cnevpost.com, gasgoo.com, 21jingji.com (Chinese)