XIAOMI(HK:01810) 36氪·2025-09-27 13:34Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes that Xiaomi is breaking the traditional barriers of the automotive industry by introducing personalized customization services in the mid-range market, which were previously exclusive to ultra-luxury brands [5][15][54]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - The mainstream automotive market, particularly in the 300,000 to 400,000 yuan price range, is becoming increasingly competitive, leading to a focus on efficiency and standardized offerings [2][3]. - Traditional automotive manufacturers prioritize cost control and rapid delivery, often limiting customization options to a few standard colors and features [4][12]. - The demand for personalized vehicles has been largely unmet in the sub-million yuan market, with customization services typically reserved for high-end brands like Porsche and Ferrari [14][12]. Group 2: Xiaomi's Strategy - Xiaomi aims to not only increase sales but also to drive a transformation in the Chinese automotive market through innovative business models [6][52]. - The company has launched a "Xiaomi Customization Service," offering 26 personalized options, including unique paint colors and interior materials, which were previously unavailable in this price segment [5][25]. - Xiaomi's approach challenges the traditional automotive industry's focus on efficiency, instead prioritizing consumer desires for individuality and aesthetic appeal [40][56]. Group 3: Challenges and Innovations - The development of customized paint colors involves significant costs and complexities, with a single color potentially exceeding 2 million yuan in development expenses [18][19]. - Xiaomi's customization service requires a flexible production model, which poses challenges to traditional assembly line efficiency [26][27]. - The company has successfully introduced new paint options, such as the "Purple Crystal" finish, which involves intricate production processes and extensive manual labor [20][21]. Group 4: Consumer Trends - The article notes a shift in consumer decision-making from practicality to emotional value and personal expression, indicating a growing demand for personalized products [32][33]. - Xiaomi's success in the automotive sector reflects a broader trend where consumers are willing to pay for emotional and aesthetic value, not just functional benefits [53][55]. - The introduction of customization services aligns with the emerging "color economy," where individual expression through color choices is becoming increasingly important in consumer preferences [41][44].