The electric vehicle (EV) landscape in China is constantly evolving, and the Li Auto i9 is set to make a significant impact. Recently spotted undergoing road tests in China, this flagship SUV was camouflaged, hinting at its anticipated debut. As Li Auto aims to enhance its presence in the battery electric vehicle (BEV) market, the i9 is expected to compete directly with the soon-to-be-released third-generation Nio ES8.
Li Auto, a prominent player in the Chinese new energy vehicle sector, initially focused on extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs). This strategy successfully positioned the company as the first profitable NEV startup in China. In 2024, Li Auto ventured into the BEV market, though its first attempt with the Mega minivan did not meet sales expectations.
Building a Stronger BEV Lineup
Despite the challenges faced with its initial BEV launch, Li Auto continues to expand its electric vehicle offerings. Following the introduction of the i8 crossover this summer—its second battery-electric model—the company is gearing up for the launch of the i6, an entry-level electric SUV, in September. However, the sales performance of the i8 remains unclear, as the company has already reduced its available trim levels shortly after the model’s release.
What We Know About the Li Auto i9
The Li Auto i9 was captured in recent spy shots by a Chinese outlet, Autohome. Despite being heavily camouflaged, its sleek A-pillars and slim LED taillights were noticeable features. The SUV appears to incorporate headlights integrated into the front bumper and a LiDAR sensor positioned on the roof, along with stylish five-spoke wheels.
While specific specifications for the i9 are yet to be revealed, it is evident that this SUV is larger than the i8. The latter boasts impressive dimensions measuring 5085 mm in length, 1960 mm in width, and 1740 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,050 mm. The i9 is projected to measure around 5.3 meters in length, positioning it as a contender against Nio’s third-generation ES8, which currently holds the title of the largest Chinese BEV.
Performance Expectations
Speculation suggests that the i9’s powertrain will closely resemble that of the i8. Anticipated features include a dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) system delivering a combined peak power output of 400 kW (536 hp). For reference, this aligns with the first-generation Zeekr 001 electric liftback available in Europe. The front electric motor is expected to produce 150 kW (201 hp), while the rear motor will generate 250 kW (335 hp). Additionally, the i9 is likely to utilize a 97.8 kWh ternary NMC battery.
As Li Auto prepares for the i9’s debut, the anticipation surrounding its features and performance continues to grow. With the company committed to expanding its BEV lineup, the i9 could play a crucial role in establishing Li Auto as a formidable competitor in the electric SUV market.