On April 18th, Li Auto released the L6 in two models, Pro and Max, priced at 249,800 and 279,800 yuan respectively. This positions the L6 as the most affordable option in Li Auto's range. Amidst fierce competition in the new energy vehicle sector, this launch is a strategic effort by Li Auto to target the 200,000 to 300,000 yuan market segment.
In terms of specifications:
In terms of appearance, the Li Auto L6 maintains the design style typical of the L series.
In terms of appearance, the Li Auto L6 retains the L series' signature star-ring lights, boasting the longest in the series at 2.2 meters.
Li Auto, known for its "fridge, TV, and large sofa" comfort, has opted not to include rear screens in the L6 model. This decision, emphasizing the car's primary role as transportation, showcases Li Auto's targeted cost-cutting strategy.
In terms of driving dynamics, the L6 foregoes air suspension in favor of a CDC sport suspension standard across all models. Despite lacking air suspension, the L6 features a dual-motor all-wheel drive system and a refined suspension with front double wishbones and rear multi-links.
Regarding the EV battery, the Li Auto L6 features a new, high-energy-density LFP battery developed by CATL and Sunwoda. With a 36.8 kWh capacity, this battery charges rapidly, achieving a 20% to 80% charge in just 20 minutes.
In 2021, Li Xiang voiced concerns about the instability of LFP batteries in range-extended vehicles, highlighting erratic energy consumption and NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) issues. Despite these initial reservations, Li Auto has now adopted LFP batteries for their range-extended models. Over the past three years, significant advancements in LFP technology have been driven by intense competition among battery manufacturers.
The Li Auto L6 utilizes LFP batteries across all models, primarily for their significant cost benefits, helping maintain effective price control within the 200,000 to 300,000 yuan range. Additionally, potential decreases in the cost of battery raw materials could further enhance Li Auto's competitiveness in pricing among new energy vehicle manufacturers, without being constrained by battery expenses.
LFP batteries, used in the Li Auto L6, are safer compared to ternary battery. While LFP-equipped vehicles typically offer shorter ranges than those with ternary batteries, the L6's 36.8 kWh capacity is substantial for plug-in hybrid or range-extended models. Range anxiety is mitigated in range-extended vehicles that use both gasoline and electricity. According to official data, the L6 has a pure electric range of 212 km (CLTC cycle) and a combined range of 1390 km. Even if ranges are lower under the WLTC cycle or in colder conditions where LFP performance might decrease, the vehicle's ability to quickly refuel ensures that a 1000+ km range sufficiently meets most travel needs, including long highway journeys.
