Xiaomi Auto Releases Water-Fording Guide: Key Differences Between Range-Extended and BEV Models, Plus Pengcheng Series Water Mode Instructions

On August 12, Xiaomi Auto updated its official Q&A section to explain the differences between range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) regarding water fording capabilities and unveiled the operating procedure for the Pengcheng series’ water-fording mode. Range-extended vehicles, equipped with a range extender engine, carry the risk of water entering the air intake system, whereas pure electric vehicles do not face this issue. Through hardware optimization, Xiaomi has raised the air intake position of the range extender in the Pengcheng series to 1,109 mm above ground level. When the battery state of charge exceeds 15%, users can manually activate the water-fording mode. In this mode, the vehicle disables the range extender and operates solely via the electric motor. Upon activation, the system automatically implements multiple protective measures: raising the suspension to its highest setting, displaying real-time water depth and vehicle tilt angle, and switching the air conditioning to recirculation mode. If the vehicle enters deep water, the system will automatically unlock child safety locks, lower rear windows to facilitate emergency escape, and deactivate the air conditioning compressor to prevent backflow of accumulated water. Xiaomi Auto advises that regardless of whether the vehicle is a range-extended or pure electric model, drivers should maintain low speed when driving through flooded areas. After traversing standing water, owners should promptly visit a service center for a comprehensive inspection. Additionally, owners of range-extended vehicles should specifically check for any residual water in the range extender’s air intake ducts.