Xiaomi-Backed Startup Launches SC01 Electric Sports Car in China

A Chinese startup supported by smartphone giant Xiaomi has officially launched its first production model—an affordable electric sports car—following its initial reveal in September 2022.

China Car Custom, a car tuning startup, announced the launch of the SC01, an all-electric sports coupe priced from RMB 229,800 (approximately $31,530). The launch was kept deliberately low-key, with no major event or extensive marketing campaign—just a few understated posts on Weibo from founder Feng Xiaotong. In keeping with this understated debut, the car also lacks a formal brand name and is simply referred to as the “Small Sports Car SC01.”

According to a regulatory filing from January, production of the SC01 is handled by Jiangxi Jiangling Group New Energy Vehicle (JMEV). The car has since been renamed JMEV 01. It targets a niche segment of China’s EV market, where domestic sports cars remain rare. One of its few local rivals is the MG Cyberster by SAIC Motor.

The SC01 measures 4,106 mm in length, 1,830 mm in width, and 1,170 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,503 mm. It has a curb weight of 1,365 kg and a top speed of 200 km/h.

Power is supplied by a 60 kWh ternary lithium-ion battery pack from CALB, offering a CLTC-rated driving range of 520 kilometers. The car is offered in a single dual-motor variant, delivering a combined peak output of 320 kW (429 hp) and 560 Nm of torque, enabling a 0–100 km/h sprint in just 2.9 seconds. 

A key highlight of the SC01 is its lightweight tube-frame chassis, contributing to its modest curb weight. The car also features adjustable racing dampers, aluminum steering knuckles, 360 mm brake discs, and high-performance brake calipers—with six pistons at the front and four at the rear. Its low center of gravity, at just 380 mm, further enhances its handling dynamics.