The sedan failed to detect a drop-off. The owner is demanding compensation.
An unusual incident in China has put the spotlight on the Xiaomi SU7 electric sedan after the car rolled straight into a body of water while its automated parking feature was engaged.
According to reports, the driver stopped near a spot he intended to use for parking and switched on the smart parking mode. The vehicle began maneuvering on its own but failed to recognize a change in elevation, continuing forward until it slid directly into the water.
Local media say the owner has filed a compensation claim against the manufacturer. Xiaomi’s user manual, however, clearly states that drivers must check their surroundings before activating the parking assistant, including making sure there are no hazardous slopes or sudden drop-offs nearby.
The company has not yet issued an official statement.