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Aluminum Used Instead of Copper in SU7 Wiring Harness: Xiaomi Denies Cutting Corners, Sparks Debate

Xue Hua Sun, Apr 14 2024 06:37 AM EST

April 7th, Xiaomi's decision to utilize aluminum wiring harness in its SU7 model has ignited discussions among netizens, prompting an official response from the company.

Xiaomi Automobiles stated that currently, most car manufacturers opt for aluminum conductors in components like charging wiring harnesses, a trend the SU7 follows suit.

The company emphasized that although aluminum conductors differ from copper in conductivity, they can achieve similar current-carrying capacity by adjusting their cross-sectional area.

Furthermore, aluminum conductors offer the advantage of lightweight, approximately 30% lighter than copper.

In response to public controversy, experts and parts manufacturers have clarified that the substitution of aluminum for copper wiring harnesses in new energy vehicles is not a matter of cutting corners, but rather based on several considerations:

  1. Cost Efficiency: Aluminum material costs relatively less, aiding in cost control and market expansion.

  2. Weight Reduction: Opting for aluminum soft connections can reduce battery pack weight, enhancing the vehicle's driving range.

  3. Flexibility and Processability: Aluminum exhibits good flexibility and processability, suitable for various product types with different thicknesses.

  4. Oxidation Resistance: Aluminum soft connections boast strong oxidation resistance, aiding in maintaining stable conductivity performance.

  5. Thermal Conductivity: Aluminum has lower specific heat capacity compared to copper (copper: 3.43J/Gv, aluminum: 2.42J/Gv), making it easier to dissipate heat and improve battery pack efficiency.

Despite some drawbacks of aluminum, with appropriate technological applications, it remains a preferred material in new energy vehicles, such as for high-current wiring connections in battery packs, inverters, and motors.

Furthermore, it's noteworthy that mainstream electric vehicle brands have made similar choices. s_b47803b7d97b4df99fa9300f9b8de1b5.jpg