Li Auto has officially transitioned its vehicle lineup to proprietary battery technology as of September 7, 2026. The company is integrating these in-house batteries into existing models, including the Li L8, Li L6, and Li i8, following a strategic rollout plan scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2026.
The Li Mega model is currently facing a shortage of CATL 5C ternary lithium batteries due to higher-than-anticipated order volumes. Consequently, all orders placed from September 7 will feature Li Auto's own 5C batteries, with deliveries expected to commence in November.
The upcoming flagship SUV, the Li i9, is set for a mid-September debut. It will initially utilize CATL batteries, with a planned transition to Li Auto's proprietary 5C units as production capacity scales. Meanwhile, the 2026 Li i6 model will launch in the fourth quarter with both the 5C battery and the company's proprietary Mach chip.
Li Auto joins other manufacturers in reducing reliance on external suppliers. Previously, Xpeng discontinued the use of CATL batteries, and recent models from Xiaomi, specifically the SkyNomad N70 and N90, have also opted for alternative power solutions.
