Li Auto is moving forward with its strategy to use in-house developed batteries and chips across its entire vehicle lineup. The company has announced that the refreshed 2026 Li i6 electric SUV will debut with these core technologies in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Li Auto’s In-House Battery and Chip Strategy
Li Auto detailed its plan to expand the use of internally developed batteries and chips in a recent WeChat post. The company began developing battery cells in-house in 2020, and its technology now covers 5C cells, battery packs, and battery management systems. Development of the Mach assisted-driving chip started in 2022, with ongoing investment planned for future versions.
Currently, Li Auto’s in-house batteries are already used in the Li L8, Li L6, and Li i8 models. The company aims to deploy these batteries across all models in its lineup.
2026 Li i6: Launch Timeline and Features
The 2026 Li i6, a 5-seat all-electric SUV, will be equipped with Li Auto’s in-house 5C battery and Mach chip. Pre-orders for the updated model will open in late September, with deliveries scheduled to begin in early November.
The Li i6 was first launched in September 2025. In the first seven months of 2026, deliveries totaled 135,863 units. July deliveries dropped 28.12% from June to 15,420, but still represented about half of Li Auto’s monthly total.
Transition Plans for Li Mega and Li i9
The new-generation Li Mega, launched on September 2, initially uses 5C ternary lithium batteries from CATL. Once production preparations are complete, the model will switch entirely to Li Auto’s in-house 5C ternary lithium batteries. Customers who place Li Mega orders at or after 3:00 pm Beijing Time on September 7 will receive vehicles equipped with the in-house batteries, with deliveries expected to start in November.
The Li i9, a flagship 6-seat all-electric SUV set to debut in mid-September, will also begin with CATL’s 5C ternary lithium batteries before transitioning to Li Auto’s own batteries as production ramps up.
Partnership with Sunwoda and Cost Control Measures
Li Auto is increasing its investment in battery manufacturing through a partnership with Sunwoda. After a recent capital injection, Li Auto will hold an 8.79% stake in Sunwoda Electric Vehicle Battery Co Ltd, making it the second-largest single shareholder. The two companies established a 50-50 joint venture in 2025 to manufacture batteries developed by Li Auto.
Facing cost pressures, Li Auto reported a vehicle margin of 9.4% in the second quarter, down from 19.4% a year earlier. Management stated on an August 26 earnings call that the company would control costs through integrated design, in-house technology, and supply chain optimization, and has decided not to pass recent cost increases on to customers.
Why this matters
Li Auto’s move to expand in-house battery and chip technology signals a significant shift in its approach to core vehicle components. By increasing control over key technologies and manufacturing, the company aims to improve supply chain stability and manage costs amid a competitive market.
The transition also highlights Li Auto’s commitment to innovation and its response to changing market dynamics, as it seeks to maintain its position in China’s rapidly evolving EV sector.
What this means for buyers
Buyers considering Li Auto vehicles can expect more models to feature the company’s own battery and chip technology in the near future. Those interested in the refreshed Li i6 or the new-generation Li Mega should note the upcoming transition to in-house batteries, which may impact delivery timelines and product specifications.
Customers locking in orders for the Li Mega after September 7 will receive vehicles with Li Auto’s in-house batteries, with deliveries beginning in November.
Key Specs
- 2026 Li i6 Pre-Order Date: Late September 2026
- 2026 Li i6 Delivery Start: Early November 2026
- 2026 Li i6 Battery: Li Auto in-house 5C battery
- 2026 Li i6 Chip: Mach assisted-driving chip
- Li i6 Deliveries (Jan-Jul 2026): 135,863 units
- Li i6 July 2026 Deliveries: 15,420 units
- Li Auto Stake in Sunwoda EVB: 8.79%
- Li Auto Vehicle Margin Q2 2026: 9.4%
Source
Images sourced from: cnevpost.com, carnewschina.com, electrek.co
