Chinese automaker Li Auto made a surprising move less than a week after launching its new i8 electric SUV, consolidating its three original trim levels-Pro, Max and Ultra-into a single standard configuration. The restructured offering, based on the previous Max configuration, now starts at 339,800 yuan (≈ $47,300 USD), a reduction of 10,000 yuan from the earlier Max price .
Summary Table
Feature / Topic |
Detail |
|---|---|
Official model name |
Li Auto i8 (also referred to as Lixiang i8) |
Launch date |
July 29, 2025 |
Original trims and pricing |
Pro: 321,800 yuan (670 km), Max: 349,800 yuan (720 km), Ultra: 369,800 yuan (Premium options) |
Revised trim configuration |
Single configuration based on Max trim |
Revised pricing |
339,800 yuan (~ $47,300 USD) |
Key standard features |
97.8 kWh battery, dual‑motor AWD, refrigerator, audio system, 720 km CLTC, optional rear screen |
Rationale |
Simplify purchase decision, meet user demand, reduce variant complexity |
Sales context |
39.7% drop in July, 98% pre‑orders for highest two trims, consumer dissatisfaction with Pro |
Delivery start date |
August 20, 2025 |
Official website |
[Li Auto global official site] (link: https://www.liauto.com/) |
Market Launch and Initial Trims
Li Auto officially launched the all‑electric i8 on July 29, 2025, introducing three distinct variants:
-
Pro: priced at 321,800 yuan (~ $44,830), equipped with a 90.1 kWh battery, 670 km CLTC range, and Li AD Pro driver assistance
-
Max: priced at 349,800 yuan (~ $48,740), featuring a larger 97.8 kWh battery, extended 720 km CLTC range, NVIDIA Thor‑U chip with AD Max features, and an in‑car intelligence assistant
-
Ultra: highest‑end version at 369,800 yuan (~ $51,530), similar technical specs as Max but includes an ultra‑wide 21.4‑inch rear ceiling screen and premium sound system
Deliveries were scheduled to begin on August 20, 2025. The i8 was marketed as Li Auto’s first fully electric SUV and second battery-electric model after the Mega MPV
Why the Streamlining Was Implemented
Just one week post-launch, Li Auto announced on August 5, 2025, that it would eliminate the Pro and Ultra variants. Instead, the i8 will be offered in a single configuration based on the previous Max trim, now priced at 339,800 yuan (~ $47,300), saving customers 10,000 yuan compared to the old Max price
According to company statements, over 98% of pre‑orders were for the Max and Ultra trims; the Pro version reportedly failed to meet core user requirements, prompting confusion and dissatisfaction among buyers. Customers also demanded that signature features like the built‑in refrigerator become standard, and requested optional second‑row entertainment screens.
New Configuration Highlights
The unified i8 configuration aligns with Li Auto’s earlier strategy used for the Li Auto One model: a single trim with most core features as standard, maintaining simplicity and transparency. The new version retains the Max’s main specifications: dual‑motor AWD, 97.8 kWh battery, and 720 km CLTC range.
Additional perks include a complimentary 10,000‑yuan platinum audio system. An optional rear‑seat entertainment package is offered at the same price point-a solution for customers who previously ordered Ultra trim .
Strategic and Market Context
Li Auto’s decision came amid a sharp decline in deliveries: sales dropped 24.1% in June and 39.7% year‑on‑year in July . Meanwhile, the i8’s debut sparked criticism that certain Pro‑trim features underwhelmed, especially as the vehicle priced above 320,000 yuan (~ $44,000) lacked elements standard on lower‑priced models like the Li L6-which starts under 280,000 yuan (~ $38,500) .
By consolidating trims, Li Auto aims to restore consumer confidence, avoid confusion, and reinforce product value clarity, especially as it expands beyond China and builds brand awareness .
Technical Specifications (Unified i8 Max Trim)
-
Dual‑motor all‑wheel drive, ~536 hp, peak torque ~660 Nm; 0-100 km/h in ~4.5 seconds
-
97.8 kWh ternary‑lithium battery with CLTC range of 720 km; fast charging adds up to 500 km in ~10 minutes via 5C supercharging
-
Yacht‑inspired design with low drag coefficient (~0.218), spacious 2+2+2 six‑seat layout, air‑suspension, and built‑in temperature‑controlled refrigerator
-
AD Max driver assistance with NVIDIA Thor‑U chip, and upcoming VLA large‑language‑model‑based “personal driver” AI functionality
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. What prompted Li Auto to switch to a single trim so soon after launch?
A. Most buyers pre‑ordered the Max or Ultra trims; the base Pro lacked key features such as the refrigerator and rear entertainment screen. The company simplified trim offerings in response to customer feedback and to reduce purchase complexity .
Q. What features are now standard in the unified i8?
A. The single configuration is built on the Max trim and includes a 97.8 kWh battery, AWD, 720 km CLTC range, built‑in fridge, advanced AD Max driving system, and the 10,000 yuan platinum audio package. A rear entertainment screen is optional at no additional markup compared to Ultra trim buyers.
Q. Can customers who ordered other trims change their orders?
A. Customers who ordered the Pro trim can either cancel or upgrade to the unified configuration. Ultra‑trim buyers are effectively receiving the same feature set at a lower price point .
Q. How does the revised price compare internationally?
A. At 339,800 yuan, the i8’s base price is approximately $47,300. This places it between the original Pro ($44,800) and Max ($48,700) price points.
Q. When does i8 delivery start?
A. Li Auto has confirmed deliveries begin August 20, 2025, consistent with initial plans
For More Information Click HERE