A horrific incident in Chengdu, China, on October 14, 2025, has sent shockwaves through social media, as a viral video captured a Xiaomi SU7 electric vehicle engulfed in flames, with its driver tragically burnt alive inside. According to Free Press Journal, the car crashed into a divider after a sudden power failure, which triggered an automatic door lock malfunction, trapping the driver as the vehicle was consumed by fire.

The chilling footage shows bystanders desperately trying to smash the car's doors and windows to rescue the driver, but their efforts were in vain. The blaze, reportedly intensified by the vehicle's battery system, spread rapidly, leaving no chance for escape. Local authorities confirmed the driver’s death, with preliminary investigations pointing to a critical failure in the SU7’s safety mechanisms. Chengdu police and fire services are analyzing the wreckage to determine the exact cause of the power failure and fire, with a report expected within weeks.

The tragedy has ignited fierce online debates about electric vehicle (EV) safety, particularly regarding emergency fail-safes in smart cars. Social media platforms like Weibo and X saw #XiaomiSU7Fire trend, with users slamming Xiaomi for inadequate safety protocols and demanding accountability. Critics highlighted the absence of accessible tools like internal fire extinguishers or window-breaking devices, which could mitigate risks during malfunctions. “EV manufacturers must prioritize human lives over tech,” one user posted, echoing widespread calls for stricter safety standards.

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Data from China’s National Fire and Rescue Administration indicates a 30% rise in EV-related fire incidents from 2023 to 2025, with over 200 cases linked to battery failures. Xiaomi, a recent entrant to the EV market, faces scrutiny as its SU7 model, launched in 2024, was marketed as a high-tech competitor to Tesla. The company issued a statement expressing condolences and promising cooperation with authorities but has not addressed specific safety upgrades.

Consumer advocacy groups are urging China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology to mandate enhanced safety features, such as manual door overrides and fire-resistant materials. The incident has also fueled global discussions, with EV sales in China—projected at 9 million units in 2025—under review for regulatory updates. As investigations continue, the tragedy underscores the urgent need for robust safety protocols in the rapidly growing EV industry.

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