On June 26, Xiaomi launched its first mid-to-large SUV — the YU7.
The standard inclusion of a large-sized smart dimming sunroof on the Max variant has drawn widespread attention. As the core technology supplier behind this feature, Ambilight Technology has brought its next-generation electrochromic (EC) smart glass into the public spotlight.
This “light-responsive” sunroof signals that intelligent optical materials are becoming a key component of future automotive interiors. As the world’s first company to achieve mass production of large-area, flexible curved EC products, Ambilight is driving the transition of electrochromic technology from concept to scalable commercialization through its core R&D capabilities and industrialization expertise.
From an industry trend perspective, smart dimming is emerging as a new standard feature among automakers, ushering in a new era of “light control” in the cabin experience. As automotive cabins evolve from basic functional spaces into the “third living space,” user demands for light environment quality, privacy, and energy efficiency are rising simultaneously.
Traditional solutions such as physical sunshades and window films fall short in terms of dynamic adaptability, aesthetic integration, and durability. In contrast, electrochromic smart glass offering adjustable transparency, seamless integration, and thermal insulation is increasingly favored by mainstream automakers.
The dimming sunroof on the Xiaomi YU7 Max features Ambilight’s latest generation of EC material, capable of switching seamlessly between high-transparency and ultra-dark states. In bright sunlight, it achieves a 99.85% light-blocking rate, while blocking 99.9% of UV and IR rays, delivering a quieter, cooler, and more immersive interior environment for passengers.
Balancing intelligence with comfort, the dimming sunroof plays a pivotal role in achieving this harmony. Its adoption as a standard configuration marks a shift from experimental use to broader market adoption—and positions Ambilight at a critical inflection point in the industrialization journey.
Founded in 2017, Ambilight began operations simultaneously in Silicon Valley (USA) and Shenzhen (China), with manufacturing and R&D centers now established in Suzhou, China, and Indiana, USA.
Unlike traditional electrochromic companies that rely primarily on glass substrates and magnetron sputtering processes, Ambilight uses proprietary flexible PET substrates and roll-to-roll manufacturing, enabling industrial-scale production of large-area curved electrochromic products. This innovation fills a critical gap in the industry for lightweight and flexible smart glass solutions.
Today, Ambilight remains the only company globally capable of mass-producing such advanced EC glass. Its smart glass solutions have been integrated into over 20 production vehicle models, including brands like NIO, Zeekr, Audi, BYD, and Avatr, with partnerships expanding across the automotive sector.
The company’s Suzhou manufacturing center has achieved monthly deliveries exceeding 10,000 units, ensuring stable, large-scale supply for automotive-grade applications.
The new black electrochromic product featured in the Xiaomi YU7 Max offers an expanded dimming range, deeper dark-state performance, and improved energy efficiency—all while maintaining industrial reliability. With advancements in roll-to-roll manufacturing and automation, the solution demonstrates systematic advantages in cost control, yield stability, and delivery timelines.
Beyond the automotive sector, Ambilight has expanded into areas such as architectural facades and consumer electronics. Its building-integrated products have already been deployed in multiple green and low-carbon demonstration projects in Shanghai and Zhejiang Province. The flexibility of its materials platform enables broad cross-industry and multi-scenario applications.
Looking ahead, electrochromic technology is emerging as one of the first commercially viable domains within smart material applications. Especially under the backdrop of China’s dual carbon goals and accelerating EV adoption, smart dimming glass combines energy savings, privacy protection, and intelligent control, making it a must-have smart cabin feature for many automakers.
Compared to overseas players who remain focused on architectural applications and move slowly in automotive development, Ambilight has completed a full technical loop across vehicle-grade R&D, mass production, and system integration.
Industry observers widely believe that as user experience becomes a central driver and automakers seek greater differentiation in smart cabin design, smart dimming glass will see comprehensive expansion from automotive sunroofs, side windows, and rear glass to aerospace, architecture, and consumer devices within the next five years.
As a representative of deep-tech innovation, companies like Ambilight are poised to become key drivers in reshaping the value chain, setting industry standards, and accelerating engineering progress in this transformative field.