Li One
The Li One (also known as the Li Xiang One or Ideal One) is a luxury mid-size crossover SUV produced by the Chinese automaker Li Auto Inc., representing the company's first mass-produced vehicle.[1] Unveiled in April 2019 with production commencing in November 2019 and initial deliveries starting in early 2020, it was designed as a range-extended electric vehicle (EREV) to address consumer concerns over battery range limitations in fully electric SUVs.[1][2] The Li One features a plug-in hybrid powertrain consisting of a 40.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that provides an electric-only driving range of approximately 188 km (NEDC), paired with a 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine serving solely as a generator to extend the total range to up to 1,080 km when combining electric and fuel power.[3] This setup is driven by dual electric motors producing a combined 240 kW (326 horsepower) and enabling all-wheel drive, with the vehicle accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds. At launch, it was offered in six- or seven-seat configurations with a starting price of RMB 328,000 (approximately US$46,800 at the time), positioning it as a premium family-oriented SUV competitive with models like the Tesla Model X.[2] Measuring 5,030 mm in length, 1,960 mm in width, and 1,760 mm in height with a 2,935 mm wheelbase, the Li One offers spacious interiors including a 2+2+2 seating layout, advanced infotainment with multiple screens, and luxury features such as air suspension and assisted driving capabilities.[4] It played a pivotal role in Li Auto's early success, helping the company achieve over 10,000 deliveries by mid-2020 and influencing other Chinese manufacturers to adopt similar EREV architectures, with over 200,000 units delivered before its discontinuation in 2022 in favor of newer L-series models.[2][5]Development
Announcement and Unveiling
Li Auto Inc., commonly known as Li Auto, was founded in 2015 by entrepreneur Li Xiang in Beijing, China, with an initial emphasis on creating premium extended-range electric vehicles tailored for family use. The company's vision centered on alleviating range anxiety common among Chinese consumers, particularly for multi-person households embarking on long journeys, by integrating hybrid systems that extended driving capabilities beyond traditional battery limitations.[6] The Li ONE, Li Auto's inaugural production model and a mid-size luxury crossover SUV, was first unveiled to the public in April 2019 at the Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition. Unveiled as the company's first production model, it highlighted innovative features like a six-seat configuration and advanced infotainment, marking Li Auto's entry into the competitive new energy vehicle market. The reveal generated significant pre-order interest, with over 10,000 reservations secured by mid-2019.[4][7][8] Shortly after the unveiling, Li Auto opened pre-orders for the Li ONE in China, targeting urban families seeking a spacious and versatile electric SUV. The initial pricing strategy positioned the vehicle in the premium segment, from RMB 328,000 for the base model to RMB 448,000 for the top trim, reflecting its focus on high-end materials and family-centric amenities.[4][9][10] Early marketing efforts for the Li ONE underscored its role as a family-oriented SUV, promoting its extended-range hybrid powertrain as a solution for worry-free long trips, such as cross-city travel or vacations, while emphasizing safety, comfort, and smart connectivity for multi-generational households. This approach resonated with Li Auto's core mission of building "mobile homes" for modern families.[6] The reveal generated significant buzz, paving the way for volume production to commence in late 2019, further supported by the company's initial public offering on Nasdaq in July 2020.[8]Production Timeline
Production of the Li ONE commenced in November 2019 at Li Auto's manufacturing facility in Changzhou, Jiangsu province.[11][12] The assembly process focused on integrating the vehicle's extended-range electric system and premium interior components within the plant's initial capacity of around 100,000 units annually.[12] Deliveries to customers began in December 2019, but the rollout faced significant delays in early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted supply chains and led to postponed shipments amid consumer hesitancy and production halts.[13] Despite these challenges, the company ramped up output progressively, achieving cumulative production of over 200,000 units by August 2022.[14] Throughout its lifecycle, the Li ONE received minor mid-cycle updates, including software enhancements up to 2021, such as the V2.0.30 version released in February 2021 that introduced the Smart Follow feature for improved adaptive cruise control. Production was discontinued in October 2022 to facilitate a model refresh, with the Li L8 announced as its direct successor in the mid-size SUV segment.[5][15]Design
Exterior Styling
The Li ONE features mid-size crossover SUV proportions, which contribute to its spacious and practical footprint suitable for family transportation.[16] Its exterior styling emphasizes elegance and practicality, with a prominent front grille and large LED headlights that give it a bold, modern presence.[17] The design includes flush door handles for a sleek appearance and a panoramic glass roof that enhances visibility and openness.[18] Aerodynamic efficiency is a key aspect of the exterior, achieved through smooth body contours and a low drag coefficient of 0.297, which helps optimize range and performance.[17] Color options are varied to suit different preferences, including white, baby blue, silver, gray, and black finishes.[19] Wheel designs consist of 19- to 20-inch alloy rims, typically in a multispoke style that complements the vehicle's luxury orientation.[17]Interior Layout
The Li One features flexible seating options in either a 6-seat or 7-seat configuration, designed to accommodate families with ample space and ease of access. The 6-seat layout includes second-row captain's chairs that provide individual comfort and facilitate straightforward entry to the third row, while the 7-seat variant adds a bench in the second row for additional capacity. All seats incorporate electric adjustments, with premium Nappa leather upholstery enhancing the luxurious feel throughout the cabin.[20][21] The interior emphasizes high-quality materials and thoughtful family-oriented amenities to create a refined passenger environment. Wood trim accents the dashboard and door panels, complemented by ambient lighting that sets a customizable mood. Key comfort features include an 12-speaker premium audio system for immersive sound, and multiple USB ports distributed across rows—typically two in the front and several in the rear—for device charging. These elements, combined with the vehicle's hybrid powertrain enabling a notably quiet cabin, prioritize relaxation and practicality for occupants.[22][21][23] Cargo versatility is a hallmark of the Li One's interior, offering approximately 300 liters behind the third row with all seats up, suitable for daily family needs. Folding the third row expands this to 1,066 liters, and folding the second and third rows provides up to 2,400 liters of space for larger loads like luggage or gear on extended outings. This adaptable storage underscores the model's focus on multifunctional family use.[21][24]Powertrain
Hybrid System
The Li One features a series hybrid range-extender architecture, in which a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine rated at 96 kW operates exclusively as a generator to produce electricity, with no direct mechanical link to the drivetrain or wheels.[25] This setup ensures that the gasoline engine runs at optimal efficiency to recharge the battery or power the electric motors, prioritizing smooth electric propulsion while extending overall range.[26] Propulsion is handled by dual permanent magnet synchronous electric motors: a front unit delivering 100 kW and a rear unit providing 140 kW, enabling all-wheel drive through a single-speed gear reduction transmission.[25] The combined system output reaches 240 kW (322 hp) and 530 Nm of torque, offering responsive acceleration and balanced performance across various driving conditions.[26] This hybrid configuration supports pure electric vehicle operation when battery charge is sufficient, allowing seamless transitions between EV-only mode and range-extender assistance without interrupting power delivery.[3]Battery and Motors
The Li One features a 40.5 kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery pack supplied by Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL), with a usable capacity of 37.2 kWh.[27] This ternary lithium-ion pack utilizes NCM523 chemistry for balanced energy density and performance in the vehicle's range-extended electric architecture. The battery incorporates a liquid-cooling thermal management system to regulate temperature during operation and charging, preventing overheating and supporting consistent efficiency.[27] Propulsion is provided by two permanent magnet synchronous electric motors sourced from BorgWarner, with one unit integrated into the front axle and the other into the rear axle to enable all-wheel drive. These motors employ liquid cooling for the controllers and windings, enhancing thermal stability and operational reliability under varying loads.[28] Li Auto offers an 8-year or 120,000 km warranty on the battery pack, ensuring retention of at least 70% of its original capacity.[29] The gasoline engine in the powertrain functions primarily as a range extender to recharge the battery during extended trips.Performance and Specifications
Dimensions and Capacities
The Li One, a mid-size luxury crossover SUV, features dimensions designed for family-oriented practicality, with a focus on interior space and load-bearing capabilities. Its wheelbase spans 2,935 mm, enabling a roomy cabin that comfortably seats six or seven passengers across three rows, making it suitable for larger families or group travel.[30] The vehicle's curb weight is approximately 2,300 kg, a figure attributable to its robust chassis, extended-range hybrid powertrain, and integrated battery system.[31] This substantial mass, combined with the powertrain's front-rear weight distribution, enhances overall stability and handling during highway driving. The Li One also offers a maximum towing capacity of 700 kg, allowing for light-duty hauling such as small trailers or recreational equipment.[32] Key capacities further underscore its versatility as a hybrid SUV. The fuel tank holds 55 liters, providing fuel for the range-extender engine to generate electricity and extend driving range beyond pure-electric limits.[32] Standard tire sizing is 255/50 R20, selected for optimal traction, ride comfort, and efficiency on varied road surfaces.[33]| Specification | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 2,935 mm | Contributes to spacious three-row seating.[30] |
| Curb Weight | ~2,300 kg | Includes hybrid components.[31] |
| Towing Capacity | 700 kg (max) | For light loads.[32] |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 liters | Supports range extension (2021 facelift).[32] |
| Tire Size (Standard) | 255/50 R20 | All-season performance.[33] |
Range and Charging
The Li ONE, as an extended-range electric vehicle, delivers a pure electric driving range of 188 km under the NEDC testing cycle and 148 km according to the WLTC standard (2021 facelift model).[34][35] This capability is supported by its 40.5 kWh ternary lithium-ion battery pack, which powers the dual electric motors exclusively until depletion. When combined with a full 55-liter fuel tank, the total driving range extends to 890–1,080 km under NEDC conditions, allowing for extended journeys without frequent refueling.[36][34] In electric-only operation, the vehicle exhibits an efficiency of 16.9 kWh/100 km, contributing to its suitability for urban and suburban commutes.[37] The combined fuel consumption, integrating both electric and range-extender modes, measures 1.5 L/100 km under NEDC testing; in fuel mode (depleted battery), it is 6.05 L/100 km under WLTC testing, reflecting the system's balanced energy use across varied driving scenarios.[36][38] Charging options for the Li ONE include DC fast charging, which replenishes the battery to 80% capacity in approximately 40 minutes at up to 40 kW.[39] For home or slower charging, a full charge via AC at 200 V takes about 6 hours, making overnight replenishment practical for daily use.Technology and Features
Infotainment System
The infotainment system of the Li ONE is built on Android Automotive OS, powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 820A processor, which delivers responsive performance for multimedia and vehicle controls.[40][41] The core interface centers around a 16.2-inch central touchscreen that handles navigation, media playback, climate settings, and app access, complemented by a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster for the driver displaying essential driving information and customizable widgets.[40][42] A dedicated voice assistant, Lixiang Tongxue, enables hands-free operation across the cabin, supporting commands for navigation routing, music selection, and vehicle adjustments with multi-zone recognition for front and rear occupants.[43] Integrated high-definition navigation provides real-time traffic updates and route optimization, enhanced by over-the-air (OTA) updates that regularly improve software features, user interface, and system stability without requiring service visits.[44] Connectivity options emphasize seamless smartphone integration and remote access. The system supports wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for mirroring apps, calls, and media from compatible devices via Bluetooth or USB.[45] It includes 4G cellular connectivity for online services like streaming and cloud-based features, along with integration to the official Li Auto mobile app, allowing owners to monitor vehicle status, precondition the cabin, and perform basic controls such as locking or starting from their smartphone.[46] The setup briefly interfaces with the vehicle's advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to display alerts and navigation cues on the central screen without disrupting entertainment functions.[40] The audio subsystem features a 12-speaker Hi-Fi setup tuned for balanced sound reproduction across the cabin, supporting formats like Bluetooth streaming, USB playback, and online radio.[47] The vehicle's overall noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) performance is enhanced by effective cabin insulation, creating a quieter environment for passengers.Driver Assistance Systems
The Li ONE features a Level 2 advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) centered on Navigate on Autopilot (NOA), enabling semi-autonomous navigation primarily for highway environments with driver supervision. NOA allows the vehicle to handle lane changes, overtaking, and route following, marking it as one of the first production vehicles to offer this capability in standard configuration upon its 2021 update. This system integrates with high-definition mapping to support functions like automatic ramp entry and exit, enhancing long-distance travel efficiency.[36] The sensor suite supporting NOA and other ADAS functions includes 11 cameras for visual perception, 12 ultrasonic sensors for close-range detection, and 5 mmWave radars for medium- to long-range object tracking. These components enable real-time environmental mapping and fusion through the vehicle's self-developed algorithms, powered by the Horizon Journey 3 chip introduced in the 2021 model year. Key features encompass adaptive cruise control for maintaining safe following distances, lane keeping assist to prevent unintended drift, automatic parking for perpendicular and parallel maneuvers, and 360-degree cameras providing surround-view monitoring to aid low-speed operations.[48][49] Over-the-air (OTA) updates have progressively enhanced the ADAS capabilities, with early versions introducing features like Smart Follow for improved pedestrian and obstacle avoidance in dynamic traffic scenarios. The V2.0.30 OTA rollout in February 2021 specifically added Smart Follow to existing Li ONE vehicles, optimizing sensor fusion for more responsive navigation without requiring hardware changes. These updates are managed through the central infotainment display, allowing users to activate and monitor ADAS modes seamlessly.[50]Safety
Crash Test Performance
The Li ONE achieved a five-star rating in the China New Car Assessment Program (C-NCAP) crash tests conducted in 2021, earning an overall score of 92.2%.[51][52] In the occupant protection category, it scored 94.73%, reflecting robust performance in frontal offset and side impact scenarios that minimize injury risk to drivers and passengers.[51][52] The vulnerable road users protection score was 72.89%, evaluated through pedestrian detection and autonomous emergency braking effectiveness.[51][52] It also performed strongly in the China Insurance Automotive Safety Index (C-IASI) tests in 2021, achieving the highest "G" rating in three out of four categories: occupant safety, pedestrian safety, and assistance safety.[53] Contributing to these results are structural elements such as seven airbags for comprehensive occupant restraint and a high-strength steel-aluminum hybrid body structure for enhanced deformation resistance.[54][53]Active Safety Technologies
The Li ONE incorporates advanced active safety technologies designed to prevent collisions and enhance vehicle control. Central to these is the automatic emergency braking (AEB) system, which uses radar and camera sensors to detect vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists ahead, automatically applying brakes if the driver fails to respond to avoid or mitigate impacts.[55] This system supports vehicle-to-vehicle scenarios as well as pedestrian and cyclist detection, contributing to the vehicle's high performance in safety evaluations.[55] Complementing AEB are forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring features. The forward collision warning alerts the driver via visual and audible signals when a potential front-end crash is imminent, integrating seamlessly with AEB for proactive intervention.[56] Blind-spot monitoring employs side radar sensors to detect vehicles in adjacent lanes during lane changes, displaying warnings on the side mirrors or central infotainment screen to prevent unsafe overtaking.[29] Additionally, rear cross-traffic alert scans for approaching vehicles or obstacles when reversing, providing haptic, visual, or audible cues to avoid low-speed collisions in parking maneuvers.[56] The Li ONE also integrates tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) with electronic stability control (ESC) for comprehensive chassis management. TPMS continuously tracks tire pressures and temperatures, issuing alerts for imbalances that could affect handling or fuel efficiency.[56] ESC works in tandem with TPMS and anti-lock braking system (ABS) to detect skids or understeer/oversteer, selectively applying brakes to individual wheels and adjusting engine power to maintain stability on slippery or uneven surfaces.[56] These preventive technologies earned the Li ONE a perfect 100% score in the C-NCAP active safety assistance category, the highest possible rating, underscoring their effectiveness in real-world risk mitigation.[51]Market Reception
Sales Figures
The Li ONE achieved cumulative sales of 211,482 units in China from its launch in early 2020 through 2023.[57][58] Sales grew rapidly after initial deliveries, with annual figures reflecting strong market adoption in the extended-range electric vehicle segment before tapering off following the model's discontinuation. As of the end of 2023, no further deliveries occurred, confirming the cumulative total.| Year | Units Sold |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 32,624 |
| 2021 | 90,491 |
| 2022 | 78,791 |
| 2023 | 9,576 (residual stock) |