Li Auto Li i8 Rear-Drive Long Range Debuts with Lower Price to Boost EV SUV Sales

Li Auto has introduced a more affordable entry-level version of its Li i8 all-electric SUV, aiming to improve demand after the model experienced consistently weak sales. The newly launched Li i8 Rear-Drive Long Range starts at 309,800 yuan ($45,630), making it 30,000 yuan less expensive than the previously available all-wheel-drive high-performance version, which continues to be priced at 339,800 yuan. The new variant expands customer choice while maintaining many of the premium features offered across the lineup.

The Rear-Drive Long Range uses a single-motor rear-wheel-drive powertrain producing a maximum output of 250 kW (335 hp). It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds, compared with 4.5 seconds for the all-wheel-drive version. Both models share the same 97.8 kWh ternary lithium 5C fast-charging battery, although the new rear-wheel-drive version delivers a longer 780 km CLTC driving range, exceeding the all-wheel-drive model by 60 km while consuming 13.6 kWh per 100 km instead of 14.8 kWh per 100 km.

Both variants retain identical fast-charging capability, allowing drivers to add approximately 500 km of driving range in only 10 minutes under suitable charging conditions. Li Auto also stated that its supercharging network has expanded to more than 4,100 charging stations across China, providing broader infrastructure support for owners and strengthening the company's charging ecosystem.

Industry observers had anticipated the arrival of the entry-level model after a single-motor Li i8 appeared in a filing published by China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) in June. Aside from the powertrain, the Rear-Drive Long Range remains largely identical to the all-wheel-drive version, featuring dual-chamber air suspension, double-wishbone front suspension, five-link rear suspension, the Nvidia Drive Thor-U assisted driving chip, and LiDAR technology.

To further encourage purchases, Li Auto introduced limited-time incentives available through August 31 with a combined value of up to 35,750 yuan. The promotional package includes three-year zero-interest financing or alternative low-interest financing options, a complimentary upgrade to front-row zero-gravity seats valued at 20,000 yuan, and a 10,000 yuan cash discount for existing owners purchasing another vehicle from the brand.

The pricing strategy follows disappointing market performance for the Li i8. The model recorded deliveries of just 779 units in June, representing a decline of 50.19 percent from May and accounting for only 2.52 percent of the company's total monthly deliveries. During the first six months of the year, cumulative deliveries reached 8,733 units, while July delivery figures have not yet been released.

By comparison, the smaller Li i6 has performed significantly better in the market. Starting at 249,800 yuan, the model has consistently achieved monthly deliveries exceeding 20,000 units from March through June, highlighting stronger consumer demand in the segment and creating a notable contrast with the Li i8's sales trajectory.

Li Auto Li i8 Pricing and Performance Comparison

The Li i8 originally entered the market on July 29, 2025, with Pro, Max, and Ultra variants starting from 321,800 yuan. After initial orders failed to meet expectations, the company revised the lineup only one week later by discontinuing two variants and retaining only the Max version while reducing its price to 339,800 yuan. Customer deliveries began on August 20, 2025, with monthly sales peaking at 6,719 units in November before declining rapidly in subsequent months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Li Auto introduce the Li i8 Rear-Drive Long Range?
The Li i8 Rear-Drive Long Range was introduced to make the electric SUV more affordable and improve demand after the model experienced weak sales. By lowering the starting price by 30,000 yuan while maintaining the same battery, charging capability, suspension system, assisted driving hardware, and premium equipment, Li Auto aims to attract a broader customer base without significantly changing the vehicle's overall specifications or ownership experience.

What are the main differences between the two Li i8 variants?
The Rear-Drive Long Range uses a single rear-mounted motor producing 250 kW and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds, while the all-wheel-drive version completes the sprint in 4.5 seconds. Both models share the same 97.8 kWh battery and 5C fast-charging capability, but the rear-wheel-drive version delivers a longer 780 km CLTC range and lower energy consumption, making it the more efficiency-focused option.