China’s biggest EREV maker Li Auto showed production of electric drive
China’s biggest EREV maker Li Auto launched the production of electric drives with an in-house developed SiC power module. The company will use these electric drives in its BEV models that will enter the market later this year. Li Auto showed the manufacturing process of their electric drives for the first time.
Li Auto is a well-known Chinese car maker, which has been selling extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) since 2018. In six years, Li Auto became a trendsetter in the segment, becoming the biggest EREV maker in China. Its hybrid model line comprises four crossovers: L6, L7, L8, and L9. Last year, the company started exploring the BEV market with the all-electric Mega minivan. This year, the company will launch three more battery electric cars powered by electric drives with new SiC power modules.
Li Auto started the production of SiC modules
On February 13, Li Auto shared the first video of their electric drive assembly. At the same time, the company announced that it has started the mass production of the self-developed silicon carbide (SiC) power modules. Li Auto underlined that its new power module is being mass-produced at the company’s Suzhou Semiconductor Production Base. The final electric drive assembly is held in Changzhou.
According to the automaker, the new self-developed SiC power module will bring a quieter driving experience while being more energy-effective. This module is more energy efficient. It means less energy consumption and stronger power output.
It is worth noting that this new electric drive will be installed in the company’s electric vehicles. Currently, Li Auto sells a single BEV model, which is the mentioned Mega minivan. However, the company will also introduce three electric models to the market. They will reportedly form the i-series.
Editor’s comment
Here, we need to highlight that Li Auto aimed to launch those battery-electric crossovers last year. However, the Li Mega suffered from slow sales after the market launch in March 2024. Last year, this model sold 10,798 units, according to China EV DataTracker. The reasons for this result include the controversial exterior styling and the high price of the Mega MPV. Self-developed tech will help Li Auto to make its products more cost-effective.
