Chinese journalists have found out what reshuffles Li Auto is preparing for 2026. The manufacturer, which faced a noticeable downturn in 2025, intends to discontinue one of its hybrid crossovers while simultaneously bringing a new flagship to market — the L9L SUV.
The past year has been a difficult one for the brand. From January to November, 362 thousand vehicles were sold in China — 18.1% fewer than in the same period of 2024. The third quarter was especially painful: based on its results, Li reported losses for the first time since 2022. Management has already acknowledged the crisis and launched an “anti-crisis” plan: the company is simplifying its corporate structure to reduce losses and is looking more actively toward overseas markets. But the key focus is described as adjusting the model lineup.
According to Auto ZOL, next year Li Auto will stop selling the L8 crossover with a range-extender hybrid powertrain. Issues surrounding the “eight” were previously mentioned by the brand’s founder Li Xiang as well: when the electric Mega minivan was launched in 2024, many showrooms simply didn’t have enough space, and the new model began to be displayed in place of the L8.
Demand for the L8 is indeed modest. From January to November 2025, its volume only slightly exceeded 40 thousand vehicles — the worst result among the L-series crossovers. The model’s share is about 13% of hybrid-lineup sales. It appears the L8 lost out to internal competition: buyers more often chose the five-seat L7 or paid extra for the L9. A similar picture is observed outside China as well, including Russia, so keeping the L8 for the sake of exports makes little sense.
At the same time, the brand also has a “plus” in the works: the launch of the new flagship L9L is expected. Its rivals are said to include the Zeekr 9X, Denza N9, Aito M9, and even the YangWang U8. The new model’s length should exceed 5.3 meters, with an emphasis on richer equipment. The crossover will receive a CATL Freevoy 73 kWh battery with 5C charging support, and the generator and traction electric motors will be upgraded for greater efficiency. Rear-wheel steering is also claimed, which will reduce the turning radius to 5.5 meters. The design and interior will retain signature features, but materials will become higher-quality and the set of functions broader: the L9L has already been spotted in road tests.
There is no information about plans to expand the all-electric lineup. It currently includes the Mega minivan and the i6 and i8 crossovers, but their sales are low. It is possible that Li is revising its strategy and once again focusing on hybrids (photo: Li Auto).
