Li Auto’s Ambitious Comeback Despite Setbacks

The year 2025 proved challenging for Chinese automaker Li Auto. The company had set an ambitious goal to sell over 600,000 vehicles but managed to sell only 410,000. Undeterred by this setback, Li Auto is targeting a sales figure of 550,000 vehicles this year, largely hinging on the heavily updated flagship crossover, the Li Auto L9.

The 2026 model is reported to be larger, featuring a redesigned chassis and a new traction battery with a capacity of more than 70 kWh, which should provide over 248 miles (400 km) of electric-only range. Industry experts are calling the revamped L9 the company’s “last decisive counterattack” – a model meant to reverse negative sales trends and rekindle consumer interest in the brand. Notably, Li Auto is introducing its in-house M100 autonomous driving chip with the new L9 model for the first time.

The interior will see significant upgrades, with the front panel receiving a large integrated screen and software enhancements that are more user-friendly and practical. The media system’s hardware platform will be based on the Snapdragon 8797 SoC, reflecting the latest advancements in automotive technology.

Alongside these technical updates, the L9 will also feature a completely overhauled design. The company hopes these changes will successfully reposition the L9 further into the premium segment, thus fortifying its presence.