Li Auto launches the RWD i8 crossover to fight sluggish sales
Li Auto launched the RWD variant of its i8 electric crossover in China to address weak sales. The 6-seat model starts at 309,800 yuan and is rated at 335 hp and up to 780 km CLTC range, with 250 kW rear motor and 97.8 kWh battery. Li Auto reported 8,733 i8 deliveries in H1 2026 and 779 in June, citing rival pressure.
How this was made
The 30-second read
Why it matters
By adding an RWD version with a lower starting price and competitive range/charging claims, Li Auto is attempting to reverse weak i8 sales momentum amid strong rival pressure.
Market read
This is a concrete product-line adjustment tied to weak delivery data, giving traders a near-term catalyst to reassess China EV demand expectations for Li Auto.
What to watch
The article does not address production capacity, dealer incentives, or whether the RWD launch changes gross margin, which are critical for translating delivery gains into financial impact.
Background
Li Auto’s i8 was initially launched in July 2025 with multiple trims, then consolidated to a single trim after low demand.
Ticker impact
Li Auto launched the RWD i8 variant in China, targeting weak demand with new specs like 780 km CLTC range and 10-minute fast charging.
Near-term: limited, sentiment-driven. Medium-term: depends on whether RWD mix lifts deliveries versus rivals.
The article provides concrete product and performance details plus delivery weakness (June handovers 779, H1 2026 8,733 units), but it does not provide pricing changes beyond the new variant or any confirmed demand response.
Market effects
Highlights intensifying competition in China EVs and the use of RWD variants to broaden appeal and reduce price sensitivity.
China-focused EV demand and pricing pressure remain the key driver for delivery momentum.
Limited direct global impact, but it reinforces the broader theme of EV manufacturers adjusting lineups to defend share in China.
Counterpoint
RWD variants may cannibalize AWD demand and only shift mix rather than materially lift total i8 sales, especially if rivals keep discounting.
Key entities
- companyLi Auto
Launched the RWD i8 electric crossover in China to address sluggish sales, with stated specs and pricing.
- supplierSunwoda
Provided the 97.8 kWh battery pack referenced for the i8 RWD.
- supplierCATL
Provided the 97.8 kWh battery pack referenced for the i8 AWD.
- companyNio
Rival mentioned as pressuring i8 performance via Nio’s Onvo L90.
