Li Auto

Li Auto founded in Beijing by Li Xiang (founder of Autohome) — initially named Chehejia, focused on extended-range EV (EREV) technology to address Chinese consumers' charging-anxiety as a market differentiator.

Li ONE EREV (extended-range EV) launches at Auto Shanghai — Li Auto's first volume model and the breakthrough product proving that EREV (small battery + ICE generator) hits a sweet spot for family Chinese SUV buyers.

IPO on NASDAQ raises $1.1B — the first US-listed Chinese EV maker focused on EREV technology, with management stressing the structural advantage of EREV in markets without dense fast-charging.

Li L9 large EREV SUV launches as the company's flagship — six-seat layout, three screens, and family-targeted features cement Li Auto's family-SUV positioning above 400K yuan price point.

Becomes the first Chinese new-energy startup to record positive operating cash flow and quarterly profit — a vindication of EREV's lower-cost-than-BEV business model and bringing it ahead of NIO and XPeng.

Li MEGA MPV launches as Li Auto's first pure BEV with 800V CATL Qilin 5C battery and 0.215 drag coefficient — but disappoints commercially due to bold styling and high price.

Delays follow-on pure-EV SUV launches citing insufficient fast-charging coverage — pivots to EREV-first strategy after MEGA underwhelms, doubling down on what the brand does best.

Cumulative deliveries surpass 1 million vehicles — fastest of the 'NIO/XPeng/Li Auto' trio and an industry milestone for any Chinese EV startup founded post-2015.

Names first all-electric SUV the Li i8 — planned as one of five pure-EV models for the year as Li Auto pushes back into BEV after 2024 pause; signals a renewed multi-powertrain strategy.

Li i8 launches in China as Li Auto's first true BEV SUV — targeting the family premium segment with 800V architecture and Li Auto's signature multi-screen interior.