Li Auto unveils Lianshan EV technology system

Li Auto's introduction of the Lianshan electric vehicle technology system signifies a pivotal moment for the company, showcasing its commitment to vertical integration and technological self-sufficiency. The system is a holistic approach, encompassing in-house developed Lianshan batteries, advanced electric drives, and a proprietary supercharging network. This integrated strategy is designed to optimize vehicle performance across several critical dimensions, including extending driving range, improving charging speeds, and bolstering overall safety. The company emphasizes that its advancements in materials, structural design, software algorithms, and smart manufacturing are key to achieving these goals, particularly with its 5C ternary lithium-ion batteries.

Lianshan

The Lianshan system represents Li Auto's comprehensive effort to control the core technologies underpinning its electric vehicles. At its heart are the Lianshan batteries, which are engineered to add 500 kilometers of range in just ten minutes of charging, a significant leap in convenience for EV users. These batteries are also designed for enhanced longevity, aiming to retain over 75% battery health after eight years and 160,000 kilometers, ensuring sustained performance and supercharging capabilities over the vehicle's lifespan. Beyond the battery, the system integrates next-generation electric drive platforms, including five-in-one and high-voltage silicon carbide three-in-one systems, which contribute to increased range and optimized vehicle packaging. The accompanying Lianshan battery protection plan further underscores the company's focus on safety and consumer confidence, offering new vehicle replacements or financial coverage in specific fire-related incidents.

Sunwoda

Central to Li Auto's in-house battery strategy is its strategic partnership with Sunwoda, a key player in battery manufacturing. This collaboration exemplifies a division of labor where Li Auto leverages its deep understanding of smart EVs to lead the electrochemical and structural design of battery cells, packs, and management systems. Sunwoda, in turn, contributes its expertise in production engineering and large-scale manufacturing, ensuring efficient and high-quality output. This symbiotic relationship allows Li Auto to maintain significant control over the intellectual property and performance characteristics of its batteries while benefiting from a specialized manufacturing partner. The partnership was solidified by Li Auto's substantial investment of RMB 2.65 billion (USD 396.2 million) in Sunwoda EVB, making it the second-largest shareholder with an 11.17% total economic interest, aligning their long-term strategic goals.

2026 Li i6

The practical application and future trajectory of the Lianshan system are evident in upcoming models like the 2026 Li i6, which is slated for launch on October 28. This model is projected to offer an impressive 780 kilometers of CLTC range, an 8% improvement over its 2025 predecessor, showcasing the tangible benefits of the new technology. Furthermore, Li Auto is actively addressing challenges such as cold weather performance, with algorithms developed to improve lithium iron phosphate battery efficiency and an over-the-air (OTA) update planned for early 2027 to add approximately ten kilometers of range at minus 20 degrees Celsius. The company's ambitious expansion of its supercharging network, with a goal of one station every 100 kilometers on national expressway corridors by the end of 2026, and the introduction of features like a map-based AI travel agent, highlight a forward-looking vision for comprehensive EV ownership experience.