Li Auto announced on September 7, 2026, that it will transition its entire vehicle lineup to self-developed batteries. The company currently utilizes in-house batteries in its L8, L6, and i8 models. This initiative expands to the flagship MEGA and upcoming i9 SUV, which will both switch from CATL batteries.
The strategic shift aims to control core technologies, mirroring the vertical integration of Tesla and Huawei. Li Auto plans to launch the 2026 i6 model in the fourth quarter. The i6 will feature the in-house battery alongside the company's Mach assisted-driving chip.
Strong orders for the new-generation MEGA have nearly depleted the company's inventory of CATL batteries. Li Auto shares rose 5.4% in Hong Kong following the announcement.