For those eyeing a pure-electric SUV on a US$35,000 budget, it's advisable to bide your time—Li Auto is truly about to play its trump card.
Li Auto built its empire on extended-range models, yet its pure-electric offerings have remained somewhat awkward. The flagship i8 generated much hype but little substance, with sales consistently underwhelming.
With rivals like NIO, OVO, and XPeng G6 fiercely competing in the $30k bracket, Li Auto has finally responded by unveiling its volume-focused pure-electric i6.
At first glance, this vehicle resembles a scaled-down i8—or perhaps a flattened MEGA.
At nearly 5 metres long with a 3-metre wheelbase, it outstrips the Model Y in size and rivals the L60 in space – a clear strength for family use.
The interior follows the familiar formula: dual screens and a rear-seat ceiling-mounted TV, essentially the pure-electric version of the ‘fridge, telly and big sofa’ setup.
But this time, a clever detail has been tweaked: the rather impractical small table behind the front passenger seat has been replaced with an adjustable footrest. This makes the rear seats far more comfortable for elderly passengers or children, reducing fatigue on long journeys.
The real game-changer lies in the core technology.
The entire range features an 800V architecture, paired with Li Auto's self-developed silicon carbide electric drive system. Energy efficiency is expected to deliver pleasant surprises.
Crucially, it supports 5C ultra-fast charging, delivering 500 kilometres of range in just 10 minutes.
Li Auto is now aggressively rolling out its own 5C ultra-fast charging network. Once this infrastructure is fully established, range anxiety will be largely eliminated.
This vehicle's rivals are clear: the Tesla Model Y and the ONVO L60.
Compared to the Model Y, the i6 holds advantages in dimensions, interior luxury, and intelligent features. Against the ONVO L60, both share highly similar positioning as spacious, high-efficiency family electric SUVs – setting the stage for a titanic clash.
The greatest uncertainty now lies in pricing.
The Ideal L6 starts at $35,000 USD. Should the i6 also be positioned at this price point, it would deliver a significant blow to the Model Y and other new entrants.
It all hinges on Ideal's resolve this time. If the i6 is positioned effectively, it could truly establish a firm foothold in the pure-electric market.
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