The Li Auto i8 electric crossover revealed a 720 km range and a 97.8 kWh ternary NMC battery from CATL, as this vehicle is getting closer to the market launch. Thanks to a sleek body shape and an in-house developed SiC power module, this 5.1-meter family driver boasts an energy consumption of 13.4 kWh per 100 km.
The Li Auto i8 is the brand’s second electric vehicle and the first electric crossover. The Chinese automaker initially planned to kick off its sales last year in China. However, the poor sales performance of the all-electric Li Auto Mega minivan postponed the launch of the Li i8 SUV. Soon, the i8 will finally hit the domestic market with a price range of around 400,000 yuan (54,400 USD).
Li Auto i8 range
On May 21, Li Auto officials revealed information about the i8’s battery options, energy consumption, and range. The entry-level Li Auto i8 offers a 90.1 kWh ternary NMC battery with cells manufactured by CATL (Jiangsu branch) or Sunwoda. This pack doesn’t have a significant capacity. However, it provides up to 670 km of range under CLTC conditions.
The main reason for a decent range number is a low energy consumption of 13.4 kWh per 100 km. It is worth noting that the entry-level battery of the i8 weighs 545 kg. The curb weight of this large crossover reaches 2,580 kg. So, the battery accounts for around 20% of the car’s actual mass.
The top-trim Li Auto i8 has a 97.8 kWh ternary NMC battery from CATL on board. This pack is suitable for a 720 km range (CLTC) with an energy consumption of 13.6 kWh per 100 km. The larger battery weighs 564 kg. For clarity, the Li Auto i8’s potential rival, the Aito M9 EV, has a 100 kWh ternary NMC battery. However, it also has a higher energy consumption rate of 17.4 kWh per 100 km. As a result, its CLTC range is 630 km.
According to Li Auto officials, the main reason the i8 is so efficient is the integration of the in-house developed SiC (silicon carbide) power module. It brings a quieter driving experience while being more energy-efficient. The Li i8 also has a sleek stance, which is good for a lower drag coefficient. Finally, the car adopts an 800V high-voltage system. Thanks to the mentioned technology, this SUV can charge 500 km of range in 10 minutes.
More about Li Auto i8
The Li Auto i8 boasts hefty dimensions of 5085/1960/1740 mm with a wheelbase of 3050 mm. It offers a dual-motor 4WD with a combined peak power of 400 kW (536 hp). The front e-motor generates 150 kW (201 hp) power, and the rear one boasts 250 kW (335 hp). Thanks to this powertrain, the i8’s top speed reaches 180 km/h.
The i8’s interior has two 15.7-inch screens in the center console, a D-shaped steering wheel, and a head-up display. It also offers six seats with a 2+2+2 layout. The Li Auto i8 will enter China in July 2025 with a price tag of 400,000 yuan (54,400 USD). Later, this model can hit overseas countries as Li Auto finally goes global.
