Li Auto, a prominent Chinese automaker, has released official images of its inaugural all-electric SUV, the Li i8, sparking investor enthusiasm and driving up the company’s stock. The company’s shares listed in Hong Kong continued their upward trajectory today, rising 4.6 percent at press time, bringing the year-to-date gain to an impressive 32 percent.
Following the initial image release yesterday, Li Auto has shared additional images showcasing the Li i8 alongside the Tesla Model X, providing a visual comparison between the two SUVs. In a social media post, the company described the Model X as a “good role model,” hinting at its aspirations for the Li i8.
Based on these images, the Li i8 presents a front-end design that bears some resemblance to the Model X, with a comparatively short front overhang. The Li i8, however, appears to be significantly longer and taller than the Model X, potentially indicating a more spacious interior.
Li Auto is a major player in China’s extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) market, currently offering the Li L6, Li L7, Li L8, and Li L9, all of which are SUVs. The company’s foray into the all-electric market began with the launch of the Li Mega MPV on March 1, 2024.
While Li Auto has not yet disclosed the seating configuration of the Li i8, the naming convention of its other models suggests it may be a three-row, six-seat model. The “L” in Li Auto’s EREV models stands for “Leading,” while the “i” in its all-electric SUVs represents “intelligence,” according to the company’s founder, chairman, and CEO, Li Xiang.
The announcement of the Li i8 has clearly resonated with investors. Yesterday’s announcement propelled Li Auto’s Hong Kong-traded shares up 12.52 percent at the close of trading.
