Xiaomi Eyes Automotive Solar Power, Possibly Teaming Up with Ex-Executive Li Chuangqi’s Startup

Xiaomi is entering the automotive-integrated photovoltaics sector and may collaborate with a new startup launched by Li Chuangqi, former head of its wearable business. According to insiders, Li chose this field partly to avoid restrictions imposed by non-compete agreements—similar to how former executive Wang Teng pivoted to the health and sleep sector—and partly because he sees strong integration potential and market prospects in vehicle-mounted photovoltaics. Industry experts note that once the technology matures, seamless integration of photovoltaics into vehicle bodies could become a critical component of automotive engineering, offering high barriers to entry and difficult-to-replicate advantages, potentially unlocking a massive incremental market.