Li i9 Debuts as Li Auto's Largest Family Electric SUV Amid Sales Pressure

Li Auto has officially introduced the Li i9, expanding its flagship 9-series lineup with its first all-electric flagship SUV designed specifically for family users. Company founder, chairman and CEO Li Xiang previewed the vehicle through a Weibo post, confirming that the model is scheduled for launch in September. Describing it as the company's first family-oriented flagship electric SUV, Li Xiang referred to the vehicle as a "second Home," highlighting its focus on spaciousness, comfort and everyday practicality for families.

Li i9 Becomes Li Auto's Largest SUV

The Li i9 measures 5,225 mm in overall length and features a 3,168 mm wheelbase, making it the largest SUV ever developed by Li Auto. The new flagship exceeds the dimensions of the existing all-electric Li i8, which measures 5,085 mm in length with a 3,050 mm wheelbase. According to Li Xiang, these larger dimensions provide cabin space and passenger comfort comparable to the Li Mega MPV. The vehicle also carries a distinctive "Home" badge on the rear, with the company confirming that a dedicated Home version will be offered following the approach first introduced on the Li Mega.

Role in Li Auto's Electric Vehicle Strategy

The arrival of the Li i9 aligns with plans previously outlined during the company's March earnings conference. Management confirmed that the flagship SUV would join the battery electric vehicle portfolio during the second half of the year to broaden product offerings and attract a wider range of customers. During that presentation, Li Xiang stated that 2026 would represent a critical phase in the company's transition toward becoming an embodied intelligence enterprise while strengthening its technological capabilities in an increasingly competitive new energy vehicle market.

Vehicle Delivery Performance

The Li i9 enters the market as Li Auto attempts to reverse weakening sales momentum and restore profitability. The company aims to achieve approximately 490,000 vehicle deliveries this year, representing around 20% year-on-year growth. However, June deliveries totaled 30,895 vehicles, reflecting a 14.84% decline compared with the same month last year and marking the second consecutive month of annual sales decline. During the first six months of the year, total deliveries reached 193,472 units, compared with 203,938 units during the corresponding period of the previous year.

Li Auto Delivery and Financial Performance

Contrasting Performance Across Electric SUV Portfolio

Performance across Li Auto's electric SUV lineup has varied considerably. The flagship Li i9 is intended to strengthen the premium electric SUV segment following the weaker-than-expected performance of the Li i8. Since its launch, the Li i8 has reportedly remained below internal expectations. In June, the model recorded deliveries of 779 units, representing a 50.19% decline from the previous month. Cumulative deliveries during the first half reached 8,733 units, accounting for only 4.51% of the company's overall deliveries. A recent filing with China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology introduced a new single-motor version, indicating the possibility of a lower-priced variant alongside the current dual-motor model priced at 339,800 yuan.

Li i6 Continues to Lead Sales

While the Li i8 has struggled, the lower-positioned Li i6 has become the strongest contributor to the company's electric vehicle sales. During June, the model delivered 21,453 units, representing 69.44% of Li Auto's total monthly deliveries. By the end of June, cumulative deliveries had reached 149,414 units. Positioned above the Li i6, the new Li i9 is expected to reinforce the company's presence in the premium all-electric family SUV segment while improving competitiveness against rival manufacturers.

Broader Product Portfolio Expansion

Alongside expanding its battery electric vehicle range, Li Auto continues updating its extended-range lineup. The upgraded Li L9 entered the market on May 15, followed by the all-new Li L8 on June 23, which transitioned from a six-seat to a five-seat configuration. The company has also confirmed that the next-generation Li L6 extended-range SUV will launch on July 16, further strengthening one of its historically best-selling product lines as it pursues broader market coverage across multiple SUV segments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Li i9 and why is it important?
The Li i9 is Li Auto's first flagship all-electric SUV developed specifically for family users and the largest SUV the company has produced. Measuring 5,225 mm in length with a 3,168 mm wheelbase, it expands the company's premium electric vehicle portfolio. The model plays a central role in Li Auto's strategy to improve competitiveness, strengthen its battery electric lineup and support future growth amid increasing competition and recent sales challenges in the premium EV market.