Spotted testing on Chinese roads under heavy camouflage, the Li Auto i9 is shaping up to be more than just another electric SUV. It’s a bold statement from a company trying to conquer the pure battery-electric (BEV) world after mastering a different game altogether. This flagship crossover is aimed squarely at rivals like the upcoming Nio ES8, marking a pivotal moment for Li Auto in the intensely competitive BEV arena.
Li Auto carved out a unique space in China’s new energy vehicle market by focusing exclusively on extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs). Think of them as EVs with a small gasoline generator onboard to eliminate range anxiety. The strategy was a massive success, pushing Li Auto to profitability, a feat few Chinese EV startups have managed. But in 2024, the company dived into the pure BEV segment, and the waters have been choppy. Their first attempt, the futuristic Mega minivan, stumbled out of the gate with sales that didn’t meet expectations.
Undeterred, Li Auto is doubling down. This summer saw the launch of their second BEV, the i8 crossover, though its performance remains a question mark, especially after the company streamlined its trim levels shortly after launch. With the entry-level i6 SUV set to debut in September, the recent sighting of the flagship i9 shows that Li Auto is pushing forward, ready to prove it can compete with the best in the all-electric space.
Decoding the Camouflage: What We See
Even under heavy wraps, the i9’s presence is undeniable. Spy shots shared by Chinese media outlet Autohome reveal a vehicle with sleek A-pillars and a distinctive thin LED taillight bar that gives it a modern, high-tech vibe. The design incorporates headlights into the front bumper, a common trend in premium EVs, and features a prominent LiDAR sensor on the roof, signaling its intent to offer advanced driver-assistance systems. Simple but stylish five-spoke wheels round out the look.
While no official specs are out, the i9 is visibly larger than the already substantial i8, which measures over 5 meters long. The i9 will likely stretch to around 5.3 meters, putting it in direct competition with some of the largest Chinese BEVs, including the third-generation Nio ES8.
Under the Hood: Power and Performance
The i9’s powertrain is expected to mirror the i8’s impressive setup. This means a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system delivering a combined punch of 400 kW (536 hp). To put that in perspective, it’s on par with the first-generation Zeekr 001 liftback, a car known for its potent performance. The power is split between a 150 kW (201 hp) motor at the front and a beefier 250 kW (335 hp) motor at the rear, a combination that should provide instant, thrilling acceleration.
Feeding this beast will likely be a 97.8 kWh ternary NMC battery pack. This high-density battery should offer plenty of range for long trips, making the i9 a practical family hauler and a comfortable cruiser. For Li Auto, the i9 isn’t just about adding another model to its lineup. It’s about proving that their success with EREVs wasn’t a fluke and that they have what it takes to build a flagship BEV that can challenge the establishment. All eyes are now on the official debut to see if this high-stakes bet pays off.
