Xiaomi’s new SkyNomad sub-brand has launched two extended-range electric crossovers, the N70 and N90. These vehicles combine electric driving with a small petrol engine that acts as a range extender. What stands out is their unusually long engine oil change interval, reportedly up to three years or 30,000 kilometres.
Longer Engine Service Intervals for Extended-Range EVs
The N70 and N90 both use a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that powers the car only when the battery needs recharging. According to Xiaomi’s official servicing schedule shared on their Weibo account, the first oil change is due after 10,000 km or one year. After this initial period, oil changes are recommended every three years or 30,000 km of engine operation.
This maintenance interval is notably longer than that of traditional petrol or hybrid vehicles, which often require oil changes every 5,000 to 16,000 kilometres. Xiaomi’s approach aligns closely with other Chinese EREV makers like Li Auto, whose L8 and L9 models share a similar extended oil change timeline.
Why EREVs Can Have Reduced Maintenance Needs
Extended-range electric vehicles run mostly on electric power, activating their petrol engines only to recharge the battery when needed. Unlike standard hybrids, which switch between engine and electric drive more frequently, EREVs can do many trips with the engine off. This reduced engine use leads to less oil degradation and mechanical wear.
The service plan likely assumes most driving will rely on electricity, meaning oil and engine wear accumulate more slowly. If owners regularly charge their SkyNomad vehicles, they might reach time-based service limits before hitting distance limits on engine use.
Technical Details Behind Extended Service Life
While Xiaomi has not fully detailed how they achieve such long intervals, a partnership with Shell hints at the use of special low-viscosity engine oil designed for longevity. Li Auto, another EREV producer, also uses advanced oils and engine design tweaks to limit oil oxidation and moisture buildup, which can shorten oil life.
This collaboration with Shell suggests Xiaomi’s new models could have similar technical solutions to keep the petrol engine and oil healthier over longer periods.
EREVs Preparing for Global Markets
Several EREV models, including upcoming vehicles like Scout’s Traveler and Terra for the U.S. market, are promoting longer maintenance cycles as a key advantage. Although exact service intervals for these models aren’t confirmed, manufacturers see reduced upkeep as crucial to making EREVs competitive with full electric vehicles.
The SkyNomad N70 and N90 represent Xiaomi’s push to offer family-friendly SUVs that blend electric driving with a petrol backup, while keeping running costs lower than traditionally expected for combustion engines.
More details about pricing and availability are expected closer to the launch.
Source: insideevs.com