Li Auto, the Chinese new energy vehicle maker, has finally launched its inaugural all-electric vehicle model, “Li Mega,” in China. Interestingly, it somehow looks like a van version of the Cybertruck electric pickup.
The multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) sells at a base price of nearly RMB 560,000 ($77,800), as per the press release.
Power and performance
Li Auto released the full video of the Li Mega launch event on its Weibo page on Friday.
The entry-level trim Max has a base manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of RMB 559,800 ($77,782), making the EV the brand’s highest-cost model to date.
Li Auto prioritized the Mega’s aerodynamics, delivering a 0.215 drag coefficient. It features a large 102.7 kWh battery pack from CATL’s Qilin batteries, enabling it to deliver a CLTC-rated range of 710km (441 miles).
It supports fast charging speed, adding 500 km (311 miles) of driving range from only a 12-minute DC charge.
In addition, it employs dual motors with a combined output of 400 kW and 542 Nm of torque. It also accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in just 5.5 seconds.
Design and other features
Apart from the remarkable power and performance of the new Li Mega, it also comes with a unique design that enables remarkably low energy consumption and low drag coefficient.
It features a waterdrop front, a unique “Aero Blade,” a fastback roof, and flawless bodywork. As for the dimensions, it is 5,350 mm long, 1,965 mm wide, and 1,850 mm tall. Meanwhile, it has a wheelbase of 3,300 mm.
The model also offers enticing features such as the following:
- reclining captain chairs
- fold-flat seats
- a rear fold-down movie screen
- a tiny refrigerator
- intelligent, fresh air system
- a 17-inch OLED flagship screen
- a platinum audio system
“We are confident that the Li Mega will be the first choice for families priced above RMB 500,000 yuan. It will be the number one seller in that price range, regardless of energy form, regardless of body style.”
Li Auto
Li Auto’s progress in EVs
Li Auto has been a strong player in China’s NEV market since its foundation less than a decade ago. It has launched four offerings in the country in the past five years, but they are not battery-powered models.
In a significant development, Li Auto recently added extended-range electric vehicle models to its portfolio. Last year, reports suggest that the Chinese automaker was developing its first-ever BEV offering.
In September 2023, the first spy photos of the new model while driving around the country’s public roads emerged. It revealed a distinctive van-like shape, nearly similar to Japan’s Toyota Prius. The company officially revealed the Mega EV at the Guangzhou Auto Show in November 2023, receiving over 10,000 pre-orders in the initial two hours.
Li Auto expects the new electric luxury minivan to dominate the market, potentially aiding its sales target of 800,000 units in 2024 alone. For comparison, the company only sold 376,030 units in 2023. Nonetheless, it successfully beat its annual target of 300,000 units despite the intensifying price war in the world’s largest auto market.
