Li Auto conducted an endurance test for its new i6 SUV, which covered 811.4 km on a single charge. The vehicle is equipped with a 96 kWh battery and achieved an energy consumption rate of 11.8 kWh per 100 km. The test took place in an urban environment near Lake Tai with temperatures ranging from 13 to 20 degrees Celsius.
The SUV carried four passengers, luggage, and 50 kg of extra equipment with the air conditioning active throughout the 18-hour drive. The result exceeded the official CLTC range rating of 780 km by 4 percent. The vehicle remained operational even after the state of charge dropped to 0 percent.
The i6 model marks a strategic shift for Li Auto, which has moved away from CATL as its battery supplier. The company now uses its own in-house battery design, utilizing cells from CALB and Sunwoda. These Lian Shan cells are assembled at Li Auto's own facilities.
CEO Li Xiang stated that the improved range results from the new in-house battery, proprietary drive motors, and silicon carbide power electronics. Reports suggest the design changes allow for an additional 3 kWh of cell capacity and improved efficiency in winter conditions.
Li Auto is positioning the 5C charging-capable Lian Shan battery as a key safety feature. The company claims the packs will not self-ignite during collisions and has pledged to provide a free replacement vehicle if such an incident occurs.
