Li Auto is gearing up to launch its i6 model on September 26, and it’s shaping up to be quite the contender in the electric SUV arena. This new pure electric SUV, the brand’s second, aims to make a statement with a max range of 720 km and an energy consumption rate of 13.6 kWh/100km. Under the hood, it boasts an 800V high-voltage architecture paired with a 5C lithium iron phosphate battery across all variants, which is impressive for a mid-to-large-size five-seater.
Design and Aesthetics: A Familiar Yet Freshened Face
The i6 carries forward Li Auto’s distinctive design DNA. Up front, you’ll spot those sleek, star-ring daytime running lights beneath the windshield, a signature look. A roof-mounted LiDAR sensor hints at advanced driver-assistance capabilities, a common theme in cutting-edge Chinese EVs. From the side, the i6 presents a dynamic profile, accentuating its low-drag wheel rims and hidden door handles. The roofline takes a more aggressive, sloped approach compared to the i8 model, giving it a sportier stance and smaller rear side windows. It’s all about short overhangs, a long wheelbase, and that gracefully curving roofline. Around the back, the family design language shines through with a seamless, through-type light strip, a subtle rear spoiler, and the license plate neatly integrated into the middle of the tailgate. Dimension-wise, the i6 measures 4950 x 1935 x 1655/1670mm, with a generous 3000mm wheelbase, promising ample cabin space.
Unpacking the Performance and Power
Performance is where the i6 truly aims to shine. The 800V high-voltage architecture working in tandem with the 5C lithium iron phosphate batteries is a game-changer, enabling a remarkable 500 km of range with just a 10-minute charge. This kind of rapid charging is becoming essential as more and more drivers consider electric vehicles for daily use and longer trips. The i6 offers versatility with both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. The RWD model gets a potent 250 kW (335 hp) motor, while the AWD version ups the ante with a 150 kW (201 hp) motor upfront and the same 250 kW (335 hp) motor in the rear, delivering robust power when you need it.
Market Positioning and Competitive Landscape
Industry analysts like Morgan Stanley see the i6 as a pivotal model for Li Auto’s push into the pure electric vehicle segment. After the previous i8 model’s somewhat muted performance, the stakes are high. Analysts suggest an aggressive pricing strategy for the i6, potentially dropping the anticipated 250,000-300,000 yuan (34,750-41,700 USD) range to a more competitive 200,000-250,000 yuan (27,800-34,750 USD) to boost sales volume. This decision could force Li Auto to weigh maintaining a 20% profit margin against achieving substantial monthly sales figures, perhaps aiming for 20,000 units.
The mid-to-large SUV market in China is fiercely competitive, and the i6 will go head-to-head with established players and new challengers alike. Rivals include the Aito M7, Xiaomi YU7, Tesla Model Y, Xpeng G9, Zeekr 7X, and Nio ES6, just to name a few. Each of these models brings its own strengths to the table, from advanced tech to compelling pricing, making it a tough segment to crack. The i6’s success will depend heavily on whether its blend of range, fast charging, and competitive pricing can capture the imagination of Chinese consumers looking for their next electric SUV.
