Updated Li Auto L7 spotted in China with the new Hesai ATX LiDAR on roof

The updated variant of the Li Auto L7 EREV crossover was seen in China with a new Hesai ATX LiDAR sensor on the roof. This device is 60% smaller and twice more accurate than the AT128 sensor currently adopted by Li-branded cars. According to insider information, the higher trims of Li Auto crossovers will also get the Hesai AT512 LiDAR.

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Hesai Technology is a Chinese LiDAR maker founded in 2014. It supplies AD sensors to robotaxi developers (DiDi, Appolo) and passenger car makers (Li Auto, Rox Motor, Lotus, Changan, SAIC). In December 2024 Hesai became the world’s first Lidar producer to deliver 100,000 units in a month. Production capacity in 2025 is expected to exceed two million units.

Li Auto L7 spotted with a new LiDAR

The Li Auto L7 was initially launched in 2023. This vehicle adopted the brand’s signature minimalistic styling with smooth lines and an overall futuristic look. However, the LiDAR sensor on the roof became a drawback of its exterior design. It formed a sizable bump above the car’s windshield, disturbing its outline. The 2024 update of the model didn’t solve this issue. However, the Li Auto L7 will finally get a smaller LiDAR for the 2025 model year.

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The recently shared spy photos of the Li Auto L7 test car in camouflage revealed it has a new LiDAR on the roof. It is the Hesai ATX 4-gen sensor. It is 60% smaller than the AT128 sensor currently adopted by Li-branded cars. The Hesai ATX has a 100-meter longer detection rate and twice as many channels. It has 256 lines, up to 300 meter ranging capability, and dimensions of 100/100/25 mm.

The new sensor not only enhances the exterior look of the Li Auto crossover but also increases its perception capabilities. According to information widely shared on Chinese social media, other Li-branded SUVs will get the same LiDAR. However, only the entry trim levels (called Pro) of these vehicles will get the smaller Hesai ATX sensor.

Higher trims will get the Hesai AT512 LiDAR. It is slightly bigger. However, it offers four times more channels (512) and a significantly longer range. This hardware will boost the Li Auto crossovers’ driving assistance system.

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More about Li Auto L7

The Li Auto L7 is a sizable five-seat SUV with an EREV powertrain. It boasts hefty dimensions of 5050/1995/1750 mm with a wheelbase of 3005 mm. The Li L7 has a 1.5-liter ICE under the hood that acts as a generator. The car is offered in China with 4WD as standard. Its peak power output reaches 330 kW (442 hp). It has two battery variants for 42.8 and 52.3 kWh, suitable for 190 – 240 km of WLTC range. The mixed range reaches 1,135 – 1,185 km. The 2024 model year Li L7 costs 301,800 – 359,800 yuan (41,150 – 49,100 USD) in China.