Zhou Xing, head of marketing for Xiaomi’s electric vehicle business, left the company several weeks ago, only seven months after joining from SAIC-GM-Wuling (SGMW), General Motors’ minicar joint venture in China. A company spokesperson confirmed Zhou’s departure on Wednesday, citing family reasons. Zhou’s departure comes amid concerns about the Chinese smartphone maker’s slow progress in rolling out its first consumer car, which is scheduled for release in 2024. Meanwhile, competitor Huawei has been selling electric cars through its retail network for nearly two years with its manufacturing partner, Seres. Zhou had worked for SGMW for over a decade, serving as deputy general manager and leading the development of marketing communication tactics for Wuling’s popular mini EVs until mid-2022. [Jiemian, in Chinese]